| I went from a '94 900SS to a '93 851, to be honest the 851 handles much better than the SS, but it feels heavier to ride. The engine on the 851 pulls a lot harder towards the top end (about the same low end torque) and doesn't run out of puff at the same level as the SS. It isn't as "chuggy" at low revs either, it pulls cleanly from low down unlike the SS.
Basically, it's a smoother version of the SS with more top end power, better handling but slightly weightier!
If you've got 5-6K to spend I'd see Steves ad for his Strada up here in Sunderland.......wish I'd had the beans to buy it instead of my 851, but from the pics of it I'd snap his hand orf!
If you've any further questions don't hesitate to get in touch!
PS I've also ridden a mates 916SP, and I know what you mean about feeling a bit too commited.....the 851 is slightly more "relaxed".... | 
Jools
Hybrid Mode
