The R vrs the hybrid. Why bother comparing them. You could get the R model and add extras then say why spend all that money on race bikes. Duke owners with even bog standard models will treasure them like babies, i did with my 748. i treated that bike just the same as i am doing now with my 996R. Jools, you will get R1, GSXR,CBR,ZX riders say all ducati riders whether R or standard are posers, you will find all makes of bikes in kitchens, bubbles etc, seems strange to say it makes you sad to see someone pootle around on it, i do blast my R but why shouldnt someone just buy the R and pamper it, some people dream of owning one not just the R just owning a Ducati is a joy.