I heard it from a reliable source* that Arlen Ness is going to start making customizing parts for Ducatis. I was afraid of something like these hand grips:
(http://www.arlenness.com/Resources/07-145_tbn.jpg)
but was assured that it would be the finest titanium and carbon fiber parts. They'll be adding a 1098 to their showroom in a few months to showcase what's available.
The first thing I want to see is an alternative open belt cover. I only know of one available right now, and even though they look wonderful, I don't like the three-spoke curve to the round pieces.
Maybe they'll have all the stuff I need by the time I finally get around to buying that Hypermotard S.
*From Corey Ness himself, at the dealership this afternoon
As long as none of it looks as silly as those ugly ass Harleys he builds.
I actually think that's great news as they build quality parts that are engineered and tested properly unlike a lot of the people who are making aftermarket parts these days.
Perhaps it is because the Harley market is so saturated and in sales decline?
Ducati's are a logical choice to expand their business (growing market share and fanatic owners who love to modify their bikes).
As long as the parts are good quality and designed well, they will sell.
J
Especially since CycleCat closed their doors :( :(
Quote from: Evil_Ductator on May 10, 2008, 07:09:15 PM
Especially since CycleCat closed their doors :( :(
thats exactly what I was thinking. Just like CC they can be the American made, over priced, just "ok" looking option.
Arlen has always been a classy guy and was years ahead of the custom aftermarket for harleys. For the most part everything with his name on it will be top notch. I will have to stop in and see what they have to say.
Just think of all the flames we can add to our Ducs now... :P
didnt BBoz used to wear his leathers in AMA?
Considering some of the clothing Arlen Ness sells in Europe, he just might get the Ducati market right. Only time will tell.
This is good news actually. Ness has always been known for high quality parts.
It would be awsome if he picked up where Cycle Cat left off with the billet accessories.
Quote from: Vindingo on May 10, 2008, 07:37:57 PM
didnt BBoz used to wear his leathers in AMA?
Quote from: howie on May 10, 2008, 07:44:11 PM
Considering some of the clothing Arlen Ness sells in Europe, he just might get the Ducati market right. Only time will tell.
...clothing with his name on it.
the arlen ness and motogp branded clothing and leathers are madif industries (http://www.madif.com/) products.
Quote from: derby on May 10, 2008, 08:00:37 PM
...clothing with his name on it.
the arlen ness and motogp branded clothing and leathers are madif industries (http://www.madif.com/) products.
Oh...
nevermind.
just have to wait and see..........i for one dont mind if there is another option for after market parts, as long as they are quality (and i like them...) wt:
I've got a family friend who co-owns a business that makes carbon fiber stuff for Japanese sportbikes. When I showed up on my Monster right after I bought it he asked what CF parts Monsters needed that weren't already made by someone.
All I can think of is clear belt covers.
Now, materials other than CF I still think there's a significant need for.
The more the merrier. As long as they do their marketing research before they start producing stuff we should expect some cool stuff.
sweeeet [thumbsup]
that'll be interesting if it turns out.
I have personally used a few select Ness parts in the past on custom jobs and found that they were a cut above most, good quality and perfect fit. A bit more expensive in some cases, but you get what you pay for.
Actually, I love the Ness stuff, at least in terms of fit and finish.
My only hope is it leans more towards "Rizoma" in terms of styling and less towards the "Tribal/Skull/EXTREME!" styling that seems to dominate a fair amount of the aftermarket.
Gotta say I just can't get my head around a "Ness" Ducati.
All that custom cruiser and show chopper stuff is just seems a bunch of expensive and more often than not, less than serviceable crap to me.
LA
If it's good quality stuff, tastefully designed, why the hell not?
Let the marketplace decide... ;)