Ah so it was you that rode over my new Alpine Stars :-)

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It's all good but I know which one went down best in Nice.:D

Nod if you like I will as I'm injoying me self.:rolleyes:

problems with Ducatis? 996R=yes! 998R=yes! 999R=oh yes!!
but has it put me off?? hell no! i still love em even for all the hassle i've had!

Neither can I... :o :o

But seriously, I was thinking about this today. Running any big bike is expensive: if it's not a C&S kit you need, then it's a set of tyres. If you use your bike much, there seems to be sometihing almost every month.

Couple of months back i had a new clutch: hub and (expensive) STM basket (but not plates). Just prior to that, a new set of tyres, all preparatory to going to Scotland. Oh, and sprockets too.

Now I need a new chain. And more tyres before the summer's out.

OK on a Jap bike I wouldn't have had the clutch expense (I reckon 20-25k for a hub, 15k for a basket), but tyres, chains, and sprockets all need replacing on any big bike. Not to mention servicing (every 4000 miles?).

'Course, another factor si that the cost of running a bike isn't helped by what we might call

"self-inflicted expenses" :) I'll say no more about that, but I'm sure it strikes a chord with some of you... :)

It's an expensive hobby alright...I'm moving house so that I have somewhere other than the kitchen to store it!
I've just been quite poorly and haven't been able to get out on mine. I had a crog' on the back of a bandit I was so desperate for a fix...I reckon as long as you love it, who cares what you chuffing ride. It's sooo diffuicult nowadays to actually pass your test that EVERYONE needs a nod, to congratulate them, whatever they ride!

Call that exclusive?

When I had my Ural I never even saw another one one the road, never mind at a meeting place!

Aw Loz, and I've always wanted to try that 999s out...?

Biking in 2000 is not a "cheap" pastime full stop, regardless of what two wheeled machine is your passion. Back in the late 60's when I got my first (4th or 5th "hand" Bantam) folks used to comment that motorcycling was a great and cheap way to get about. The great is still there, but cheap - that's long gone whatever you ride.

Cars are cheaper - 3yrs guarantee and servicing thrown in etc etc etc and better residuals generally.

The best we get is 2yrs guarantee but you still pay for servicing - some poor folks only get 1yr guarantee with their favourite brand of motorcycle.

So when you take "custody" of your Ducati just be sensible and realise that just like a mistres, the object of your desire is going to cost you - but - the emotional kickback will be worth it :-))))))

Having come back to biking after about 12 years out I have noticed that whatever bike you ride there is a lot less acknowledgement by other bikers than there used to be.

I remember that probably 90% of bikes you saw nodded or waved but now I reckon its around 33%. Do not know why.

Don't think Ducati owners are particularly snobby compared to others. The Jap owners probably are a bit jealous even if they do not say so.

I still run a Fazer at the moment with 748 hopefully next on the agenda and everyone I have met on here has been fine about that when they found out except a couple I met on a recent trip who for some reason ignore me now...... Perhaps I smell?

except a couple I met on a recent trip who for some reason ignore me now...... Perhaps I smell?

Nah Ozz - it's 'cos you're an accountant mate, pure and simple :lol: