| Here's a (long, rambly) thought,
Most of the comments on this matter have been directed at the appearance of the new model and the 998/999.
Not many comments on the serious loss of practicality with the 999 (accepted it is a little more comfy).
One of the things that makes me prefer the previous design is the ingenuity that went into it, such as:
The ease of removing/replacing all of the bodywork - 3 mins 20 seconds, including front mudguard.
There is actually some stoarage space under the seat, not much, but enought to be useful.
The rear shock is easier to access/remove.
The headlight mounting arrangement.
Mirrors that actually work (a little)
Also, virtually all of the component parts of the earlier model appear to have been designed by someone who wanted the item to look good, as well as function well, eg: the bracket/hing mechanism for the seat unit, the rear subframe (what were they thinking with the 999 subframe??).
I remember that in the release blurb for the 999 series, it was stated that the new design incorporated features to make it easier (cheaper) to service. Hmmmm.
I love working on my 998 almost as much as riding it, because it is so cleverly put together.
I've done enough twiddling with 999s/749s to know that this is no longer the case.
This will influence my decision regarding the purchase of the next model.
Plus it must look the bizz.
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