I just spoke with Ducati Manchester and asked when I would be likely to get an S if I put in an order now. Very helpful staff but I was told the factory was not producing post earthquake and I would have to join the queue of 20 or so people. Late Summer was suggested a delivery time (does that mean September/October?)
Possibly not Ducati's fault but if you are going to shell out 20K plus the £1K for obligatory Termis, you want to enjoy the bike this summer not a year after launch.At least that's how I feel.
As an alternative , I am seriously considering the RSV4 aprc which I test rode the other day (I have had a test on a Panigale S too).
I have to say that I really liked the RSV4 engine and how it felt. Although I felt it wasn't as fast as the Ducati it did feel like a bike I would use everyday and enjoy.
Still keeping the 998R though.
I'm just saying.....