| Hi guys
Douglas...
Regarding the steering: There has been so much misinformation printed in various 888 manuals that it's hard to keep track. You may well be be right about the head angle! However, my own 'official' workshop manual gives the amount of trail (which is essentially what slows or quickens the steering) on the 888SP4/SPS as 94mm, whilst the trail quoted for the Strada is 100mm. This is probably what speeds up the steering so much. Moreover, the rear suspension on the SP is fully adjustable for height etc. so its height setting is sure to play a part.
****** It's interesting to note that the head angle adjustment allowed on the 916 frame gives from 94 - 100mm of trail too. Has anyone adjusted theirs to its extremes and noted the difference? ******
Regarding the lower weight of the SP: In addition to the components you mention, there is 12lbs difference in the weight of the rear sub-frame - when tallied with all the associated hardware needed for pillion accomodation on the Strada (grab-handles & bracketry etc). Pillion pegs are discarded too on the SP. I'd assume the Ohlins forks and rear shock/fulcrum to be worth a few lb in saved weight too. (and don't forget the CF rear hugger!!)
I do know that the main frame of the SP is made from ChromeMoly and weighs in at only 13lb. I'm not sure if the Strada's frame is the same. (source, Alex Ortner) (By comparison, the standard 916 frame weighs approx 23lb)
Lies, damn lies and statistics!! Whatever might be the case with the above, I know from experience that the SP is waaay lighter/quicker steering than the Strada. The difference is noticeable even whilst pushing the bike around the garage! Ride both bikes back-to-back and you'll be shocked.
Philthy...
Neither the 888 Strada nor the SP are 'peaky' machines. They both have plenty of low down grunt. But when comparing one with the other, the Strada has the better (more immediate) low/mid-range response.
Phil...
When I call the SP 'flighty' I mean by comparison with the Strada - which is far harder to deflect from its chosen line. The SP can be flicked around with half the effort.
Steve
[Edited on 30-7-2005 by weeveetwin]  |