Sold my S4Rs yesterday after it was for sale since late July. It's a great bike and the new owner should love it. It just had the 7,500 mile service and a new Corsa III rear put on. I'm really going to miss the engine as it was one of the best bikes I've ever twisted the throttle on. The bike handles pretty well too. The main reason why I sold the bike is the range. Hunting for gas stations every 90 miles or so just took all of the fun out of riding the bike for me. Running out of gas and always wondering where I'm going to fill up next just gets old after a while. So I replaced it as it just wasn't acceptable anymore. Got kinda of tired keeping the boulevard queen nice and polished too.
So I bought an '08 KTM Superduke R and I freaking love this new bike. The power is nearly the same, both bikes have 130 at the crank. My S4Rs had Arrow pipes and the DP/Termi ecu. Comparing it to my KTM with Akra slip-ons (Akra header standard) and the KTM/Akra map loaded to the ecu, I think the Duc edges it in power but honestly it doesn't feel like more than 3-4 horses more. The delivery feels different as the KTM is happier down low (very light flywheel and 16t sprocket standard) than the Duc but the Duc loves to be flogged up high, whereas the KTM gets a bit buzzy above 9K. Still a great motor, though Ducati is the king of twins.
Where the KTM really shines over the S4Rs though is in the handling. The chassis is more up to date than the S4Rs in which the motor overpowers imo. The Superduke R comes with top shelf WP suspension, every bit as good as the Ohlins on the S4Rs. The bike is sprung pretty stiff stock so I don't have to switch out springs for my weight (195 lbs.) like I did with my old Duc. I can feel everything that this KTM is doing under me and I have alot of confidence in the front end. The bike just freaking rails and is great in the tight stuff as the transition from side to side is effortless. The bike bombs out of corners. The steering geometry is very aggressive, particularly on the R model so it comes with a steering damper. Because of this the S4Rs feels a bit more solid in fast sweepers. And the brakes are identical between the two bikes except for appearance. The finish of the KTM is more industrial, still feels high quality but definitely not as polished as any Ducati. It has mostly molded black plastic for all of the body panels and the paint on the tank is satin. I actually like the finish of the bike better as I don't have to fuss with it. The KTM also has a 4.9 gallon tank which is good for nearly 50 more miles (maybe more) than the 3.6 gallon S4Rs tank. Range on the KTM is 150+ unless I'm having a very irresponsible ride ;D
So to sum up lots of pros and cons, in some ways a lateral move but in others the KTM works better for me, but probably not for most. I know for certain it won't keep its value like a Duc as KTM just doesn't have the prestige of a Ducati here in America. But prestige and image was never a motivating factor in my two Ducati purchases as many of you probably know from my past rants from both here and the DML :-*
So it was fun, and good luck to you all... [beer]
C'mon man...PICTURES!!!
Congrats on the new bike. [thumbsup] If they made bags for a Superduke (I need to carry stuff to work & on long rides), I'd likely trade them my MTS for one.
Quote from: Triple J on October 22, 2008, 12:09:32 PM
C'mon man...PICTURES!!!
Congrats on the new bike. [thumbsup] If they made bags for a Superduke (I need to carry stuff to work & on long rides), I'd likely trade them my MTS for one.
Not mine but my bike looks just like this '07, except that mine came with an Akra header pipe, a higher compression ratio, higher redline and some lighter internals.. ;D
Ventura makes a framed tail pack system for all of the superdukes, although their frame doesn't fit with the longer Akra pipes. Guess I'm just going ta hafta cut 'em down doan cha know... :D
(http://www.superduke.net/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=956)
Very nice choice and even more an excellent comparison; fully understood. When my cash comes in I do believe the KTM SuperDuke R to be an upgrade. Have fun with your new ride.
Quote from: Rotten Randy on October 22, 2008, 12:39:22 PM
Not mine but my bike looks just like this '07, except that mine came with an Akra header pipe, a higher compression ratio, higher redline and some lighter internals.. ;D
Ventura makes a framed tail pack system for all of the superdukes, although their frame doesn't fit with the longer Akra pipes. Guess I'm just going ta hafta cut 'em down doan cha know... :D
(http://www.superduke.net/forum/album_pic.php?pic_id=956)
Bad ass! [evil]
Always loved the Superduke, Awesome machine!
The riding instructor that did my opens license test owns one, I've seen him out on the local ranges with it, he rides it like a motard, rear tyre slipping and sliding all over the place.
I spoke to him one day after I laughingly tried to keep up with him up the range, I pulled up about 2 mins after him, and I said hello and we got to chatting, I asked him about his riding technique, and I had to smile at his reply.
"If the bikes turning, and the rear tyre's not burning, your not trying hard enough!"
No wonder he destroys a tyre every time he takes it out!!! [bow_down]
sweet new ride, man!
They are great bikes. Congrats!
That is a wicked looking bike. Congrats.
Gorgeous! That color is my fave. I sat on one at the dealer once and it was just much too tall for me, my inseam is short. Otherwise I'd really consider one too. In fact there is currently a poster of one on my wall right above my monitor as I type this [thumbsup]
Just out of curiosity, have you been able to make a comparison to the non-R version?
Enjoy the new ride, I totally hear you on the satin finish and not worrying so much about scratches !
Quote from: Rotten Randy on October 22, 2008, 11:39:26 AM
Sold my S4Rs yesterday after it was for sale since late July. It's a great bike and the new owner should love it. It just had the 7,500 mile service and a new Corsa III rear put on. I'm really going to miss the engine as it was one of the best bikes I've ever twisted the throttle on. The bike handles pretty well too. The main reason why I sold the bike is the range. Hunting for gas stations every 90 miles or so just took all of the fun out of riding the bike for me. Running out of gas and always wondering where I'm going to fill up next just gets old after a while. So I replaced it as it just wasn't acceptable anymore. Got kinda of tired keeping the boulevard queen nice and polished too.
So I bought an '08 KTM Superduke R and I freaking love this new bike. The power is nearly the same, both bikes have 130 at the crank. My S4Rs had Arrow pipes and the DP/Termi ecu. Comparing it to my KTM with Akra slip-ons (Akra header standard) and the KTM/Akra map loaded to the ecu, I think the Duc edges it in power but honestly it doesn't feel like more than 3-4 horses more. The delivery feels different as the KTM is happier down low (very light flywheel and 16t sprocket standard) than the Duc but the Duc loves to be flogged up high, whereas the KTM gets a bit buzzy above 9K. Still a great motor, though Ducati is the king of twins.
Where the KTM really shines over the S4Rs though is in the handling. The chassis is more up to date than the S4Rs in which the motor overpowers imo. The Superduke R comes with top shelf WP suspension, every bit as good as the Ohlins on the S4Rs. The bike is sprung pretty stiff stock so I don't have to switch out springs for my weight (195 lbs.) like I did with my old Duc. I can feel everything that this KTM is doing under me and I have alot of confidence in the front end. The bike just freaking rails and is great in the tight stuff as the transition from side to side is effortless. The bike bombs out of corners. The steering geometry is very aggressive, particularly on the R model so it comes with a steering damper. Because of this the S4Rs feels a bit more solid in fast sweepers. And the brakes are identical between the two bikes except for appearance. The finish of the KTM is more industrial, still feels high quality but definitely not as polished as any Ducati. It has mostly molded black plastic for all of the body panels and the paint on the tank is satin. I actually like the finish of the bike better as I don't have to fuss with it. The KTM also has a 4.9 gallon tank which is good for nearly 50 more miles (maybe more) than the 3.6 gallon S4Rs tank. Range on the KTM is 150+ unless I'm having a very irresponsible ride ;D
So to sum up lots of pros and cons, in some ways a lateral move but in others the KTM works better for me, but probably not for most. I know for certain it won't keep its value like a Duc as KTM just doesn't have the prestige of a Ducati here in America. But prestige and image was never a motivating factor in my two Ducati purchases as many of you probably know from my past rants from both here and the DML :-*
So it was fun, and good luck to you all... [beer]
Good choice there with the KTM. It's outward surfaces may not compare to the Ducati, but take the tank and fairing panels off and take a look at the construction of the frame....it DOES compare, if not even more than the build quality, especially the welds on the chrome moly frame. I know what you mean about the KTM being on rails in the twisties, my 950 Adventure is far more fun to ride in tight twisties than my S4RS, even with dual sport tires on the KTM.
For your SuperDuke, I would advise looking to Evoluzione Cyclesports and their clutch slave cylinder replacement for the one on the KTM, be ready at some point a few miles down the road to replace the water pump shaft and seal as well. The fuel pump might be an issue still as well. Enjoy that orange and black beast.
Quote from: Evil_Ductator on October 22, 2008, 06:45:44 PM
Gorgeous! That color is my fave. I sat on one at the dealer once and it was just much too tall for me, my inseam is short. Otherwise I'd really consider one too. In fact there is currently a poster of one on my wall right above my monitor as I type this [thumbsup]
Just out of curiosity, have you been able to make a comparison to the non-R version?
Enjoy the new ride, I totally hear you on the satin finish and not worrying so much about scratches !
I've ridden two regular Superdukes but just for short demos. The regular SD suspension isn't set up as aggressive, it less on it's toes with a shorter and not as stiff spring in back, the redline is 9,600 rather than 10,500 for the SDR, larger titanium intake valves on the SDR, higher compression and larger 52mm throttle bodies straight from the RC8 too. SDR has 12 more horses. At only $1300 more than the regular SD I thought all the upgrades were a deal. Milled triple, black swingarm, forks, brakes. orange powdercoated frame, steering damper comes stock etc...etc...
Quote from: Centerline on October 22, 2008, 07:18:17 PMFor your SuperDuke, I would advise looking to Evoluzione Cyclesports and their clutch slave cylinder replacement for the one on the KTM, be ready at some point a few miles down the road to replace the water pump shaft and seal as well. The fuel pump might be an issue still as well. Enjoy that orange and black beast.
Yeah I've been over ast ADVrider.com a fair amount and read about all of these problems/upgrades. Mostly for the 950's but I'm sure some of them will pop up on the 990's too.
I'm just glad there are gas stations every 30 miles in about any direction from where I ride.
I'm used to stopping and topping off if not just to stretch a bit and clean my visor.
No reasons for me to stray from the flock. I love my Ducatis too much to look for reasons other than more HP and Torque from the next Italian " Beauty."
I would have to think long and hard to let one of my Ducs go just because I had to go out of my way for gas or feeling that washing, drying and spray waxing after each ride wasn't what a Ducati deserved.
Hope your happy. Dolph
Quote from: DoubleEagle on October 22, 2008, 08:27:41 PM
I'm just glad there are gas stations every 30 miles in about any direction from where I ride.
I'm used to stopping and topping off if not just to stretch a bit and clean my visor.
No reasons for me to stray from the flock. I love my Ducatis too much to look for reasons other than more HP and Torque from the next Italian " Beauty."
I would have to think long and hard to let one of my Ducs go just because I had to go out of my way for gas or feeling that washing, drying and spray waxing after each ride wasn't what a Ducati deserved.
Hope your happy. Dolph
I totally understand your position. Some people feel more content when they're with the flock. The same reason why fish school I suppose. The 'security' of having a bike and an image that portrays the upper crust is important to a lot of people. There's no need to stray far from the city limits too much as nobody would really notice you 'out there' either. I know Harley guys love to keep they're bikes polished too, maybe you can discuss the similarities of character with them next Sunday morning at Starbucks... :-*
I love the Monster, I really do.
But this SDR could be just what I need want. Me like.
The more I think about it, the more sense it makes. [evil]
I need to get a test ride somehow...
BK
AND you can a great deal on them. Try to find a Duc dealer who'll throw in an Akra exhaust, a full 600 mile service, and no freight or setup....not gonna happen....
YOU ............are..............just............Rotten............. Randy.
It's like selling your children ...........to a rendering plant. :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
How could you?
LA
Quote from: LA on October 23, 2008, 10:27:50 PM
YOU ............are..............just............Rotten............. Randy.
It's like selling your children ...........to a rendering plant. :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
How could you?
LA
Lol...I feel like this guy when I'm riding it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxCR5KA47kU (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WxCR5KA47kU)
Rotten isn't the only Oregonian to convert to the dark side ;)
(http://sieg.smugmug.com/photos/396266326_Aod3n-L.jpg)
MuhuWahahahahaha.... [thumbsup]
I thought about those SuperDukes. There is just one dealer where I live. They have one SuperDuke in the showroom. No "R's". There might be one other SuperDuke here in the island. They've never worked on them so whoever buys the one helps with on the job training. As much as I like it I just can't make myself go the "extra rare little support route". Good on you and I envy you. Ride the shit out of it!
Definitely a drawback. They need to work on their dealer network, training and communication. My local Ducati dealer is one of the biggest and best in the world. Most KTM dealers sell the Japanese bikes, and then they have a few KTM's on the floor like my KTM dealer. Imo they need to align with BMW, MV, Aprilia, Ducati, Triumph etc.
This thread is evil...really has me thinking I should go look at these tomorrow. [evil]
So what's the ballpark price on them? Their website doesn't say. :-\
$14,300 for the Superduke
$15,600 for the Superduke R
A local KTM dealer (Gresham, OR.) has brand new Superduke R for $14K right now.
I am def. diggin the Superduke.
But the next bike I buy is gonna be a 1098 (used of course)..
I'd definitely give a look. I have become an admirer by way of my Bro-in-law 950SM. I've ridden the SD and it needs the extra power the R kit gives it.
I'm not all that big into cosmetics, but it does make a difference to me here. Hell after over thirty years on em I got Ducati in the blood I guess.
The only thing I could see me getting rid of my RS for is a 1198 naked something. And even then I probably have to keep the Sleek Black Beauty anyway.
Enjoy you're new ride. [thumbsup] [moto]
LA
Quote from: ProTeal55 on October 24, 2008, 11:29:30 AM
I am def. diggin the Superduke.
But the next bike I buy is gonna be a 1098 (used of course)..
For the track, glorious
For the street, torture rack...
I rode the 1098 on the street for a 15 miles or so. There's no way I'd have one for anything but track duty, Imo thee most uncomfortable bike I've ridden for the street. They're beautiful for sure...
I guess I shouldn't have used the word "Flock ."
I never ride w, anyone . I stay out of towns and cities as much as possible. Nobody sees me 'cause I'm flying through the twities now on my 1098 R. ( 2542 miles )
I've never been w, a group of Ducatis except at the Dealership.
I've never been in a Starbucks.
I am guilty of keeping my bikes looking like new , only so that they will hopefully last longer and I like things that look like new.
Ducatis are Art....sorry I can't say the same for most other bikes. Maybe you didn't have your S4Rs setup properly for optimum handling for you.
I will say ... if I couldn't have a Ducati, the Super Duke R isn't bad looking and I'd give it a test ride before I made my final judgement about it. Dolph
Quote from: DoubleEagle on October 28, 2008, 10:19:54 PM
I guess I shouldn't have used the word "Flock ."
I never ride w, anyone . I stay out of towns and cities as much as possible. Nobody sees me 'cause I'm flying through the twities now on my 1098 R. ( 2542 miles )
I've never been w, a group of Ducatis except at the Dealership.
I've never been in a Starbucks.
I am guilty of keeping my bikes looking like new , only so that they will hopefully last longer and I like things that look like new.
Ducatis are Art....sorry I can't say the same for most other bikes. Maybe you didn't have your S4Rs setup properly for optimum handling for you.
I will say ... if I couldn't have a Ducati, the Super Duke R isn't bad looking and I'd give it a test ride before I made my final judgement about it. Dolph
I got annoyed with it mainly because my tank was a shiny black where it showed every little scratch. Ducati's are art, I'll give you that, they're beautiful bikes. I keep my stuff clean too, but now I'm not so conscious of it.
And I had Dave Hodges at GP Suspension (one of the best suspension gurus in the nation) set up my bike. For whatever reason the front end just did not communicate to me like my SDR.
And I have been to Starbucks, many times, but just to grab a cup and meet up for rides. After my deer incident I try not to ever ride alone.... [beer]
I have to say, that thing looks sick.
Just more reason for me to look at ktm (690 Duke) vs. Ducati (696) at least one of them has a nice looking trellis frame [laugh]
Kick ass man [thumbsup]
Quote from: Rotten Randy on October 29, 2008, 07:47:50 AM
I got annoyed with it mainly because my tank was a shiny black where it showed every little scratch. Ducati's are art, I'll give you that, they're beautiful bikes. I keep my stuff clean too, but now I'm not so conscious of it.
And I had Dave Hodges at GP Suspension (one of the best suspension gurus in the nation) set up my bike. For whatever reason the front end just did not communicate to me like my SDR.
And I have been to Starbucks, many times, but just to grab a cup and meet up for rides. After my deer incident [I try not to ever ride alone.]... [beer]
Riding alone has it's pros and cons as far as I see it. I'm an unoffical RoadRacer and most riders don't want to ride 100-150 miles the way I ride .
I'm always trying to get better as a RoadRacer so social riding is not in the cards . If I go over a cliff I guess it would be good to be riding w, someone.
There is a new device . It's a GPS unit that you pay a monthly fee for and you push the button and it alerts whom ever you want to be alerted to your postion and status. Also a 911 alert w, GPS position.
I'm looking into getting something like that. Dolph
Quote from: Triple J link=topic=13650.msg235162#msg235162 date=1224705652
Cool, but what do you do when Halloween is over? [laugh
no seriously, I bet it's a blast - good luck with it
Quote from: kopfjager on October 29, 2008, 07:59:21 PM
And this means what exactly?
I guess it means I have a 100 -150 mile route laid out and I try to ride it in sections of 30-40 miles as fast as I can and improve my total time each time I run that section on my 1098R.
I have to stop every 30-40 miles to stretch and drink some water . I'm 59 and have Osteo Arthritis in both kness and hips so that's why the frequent stops.
If I had to I could run a whole tank of gas which would be about 90 miles before the low fuel light comes on.
Last Sunday I road 152 miles and never saw a cop. Also never saw another Sportbike, just a few Cruisers.
It was Sunny and about 60 degrees in the South Eastern , Ohio " Hills " and Wayne National Forest.
I felt pretty much free to run at any speed I wanted to or had the nerve to.
It was one of the best rides of my life and I look forward to many more like it.
O yea, unofficial is my way of describing what I would like to do officially. Dolph
Quote from: DoubleEagle on October 29, 2008, 09:25:12 PM
I guess it means I have a 100 -150 mile route laid out and I try to ride it in sections of 30-40 miles as fast as I can and improve my total time each time I run that section on my 1098R.
How is that all that different from the track riding you say couldn't be that much fun because it's the same piece of pavement over and over?
I hope you're not pushing it too hard again.
I suspect with a couple of properly instructed trackdays, you would crush any times you're currently putting up. Something to think about.
I was lucky enough to be at the track when the KTM demo truck was there and tried out both the superduke and the RC8.
very good bikes. I have ridden 1098's and all the older ducatis prior.
Watch out KTM is on its way. The bikes are very competent they are just not yet at the point Ducati is at. A Ducati just feels like it was built for the track.
The RC8 was a great bike that was poorly set up there was so much throttle freeplay the bike was hard to ride, never should have been in the test fleet like that.
Other than that i would own that bike in an instant.
The super duke I rode almost as a joke as I have never been all that interested, oops!
Think of a cross between a monster s4rs and a hyper motard and you have the super duke. The biggest issue I had was the pirelli corsa III tires would squirm and move a bit if you did silly things. NOTE: this bike makes you do silly things.
I have to say that I would like the motor from the RC8 in the superduke, the higher spec tires from the RC8 (pirelli street/race tires) and a better paying job with lots of time off ( hey its MY wish list ).
I came away looking at used superdukes... now this thread............ damn those demo trucks!
Quote from: somebastid on October 30, 2008, 09:07:30 PM
How is that all that different from the track riding you say couldn't be that much fun because it's the same piece of pavement over and over?
I hope you're not pushing it too hard again.
I suspect with a couple of properly instructed trackdays, you would crush any times you're currently putting up. Something to think about.
It's different in that I can incorporate any combination of 20 different roads into that mix.
I actually had an opportunity to race another guy on one of the roads I was riding and backed off. I still remember those 12 weeks and now I'm riding a $40K+ bike and no future in killing me or the other rider or trashing the " R " for what ? Ego !
I like racing through the woods . Something about the trees going by or a Goat in the middle of the the road. Dolph