I'm getting ready to take the plunge into street biking. I've ridden off road bikes all my life, and own a small honda now. I also have a Zuma scooter that I've put about 1000 miles on riding around town. I've never owned anything larger than 400cc, but I've ridden a Kaw 900 a few times. I just completed the MSF course and am looking to buy a new bike.
I've been lusting after the monsters for a long time, and it's really the bike I want. I won't be using it to commute, since I work from home. I've heard the advice to just buy a used sv650 and learn on that, but I really want something new, and I want a monster.
I've seen the new 696 and, while it's not really true to the monster lineage, it's a nice bike. (I think I would have to change the saddle right away, though because my nuts get crushed just sitting on the thing.) The S2R1K still has the monster image, IMHO.
I'm not an experienced street rider, but I can ride a motorcycle. Would I be foolish thinking I could ride an S2R1K gingerly and take advantage of the capabilities when my skills catch up, or should I just settle for a 696 and move up when I'm ready?
or compromise with a used monster ;)
good luck on your decision :)
If you have your heart set on new (why you would, i dont understand), then there should still be new 695s out.
But I agree with Tini. Get a used monster. Best value.
Go for used 620/695. If you have to go new then 696.
Thread wrapped [thumbsup]
I agree with the statements above...BUT
If you want new I would go with the s2r1k, its got plenty of potential to grow into and you'll be satisfied with the power longer...plus has the pedigre your looking for in a monster.
I had almost this same argument with myself about s2r1k or an s4...
Its up to you in the end...95hp or 80hp... Old classic style vs new? SSS or not, Dry clutch vs wet (i think 696 has a wet anyway)
There are BIG differences between the bikes...if it were me, nothing beats a sick 2v motor with a SSS and classic CR styling.
my .02 [thumbsup]
I have been through this myself and I went with a 695, after about 5 or 6 months I was ready for something with a little more umph. luckily?? I got hit and totalled the 695, I promptly went and got the S2R1K. Could not be happier!
Quote from: Mash on August 04, 2008, 11:27:26 AM
I'm not an experienced street rider, but I can ride a motorcycle. Would I be foolish thinking I could ride an S2R1K gingerly and take advantage of the capabilities when my skills catch up, or should I just settle for a 696 and move up when I'm ready?
I think you already know the answer ;D
You're an experienced rider. Don't settle, you'll regret it, & it will end up costing you more $$$ & effort to buy a "starter" bike, then sell & buy again.
You've test ridden a S2R1k? If that's what you love, go for it!
Quote from: Duc Fever on August 05, 2008, 07:05:27 AM
I have been through this myself and I went with a 695, after about 5 or 6 months I was ready for something with a little more umph. luckily?? I got hit and totalled the 695, I promptly went and got the S2R1K. Could not be happier!
Don't forget you have a 2 year warranty & lower maintenance costs with new, & you know where the bike's been [thumbsup]
Quote from: Duc L'Smart on August 05, 2008, 07:21:57 AM
I think you already know the answer ;D
You're an experienced rider. Don't settle, you'll regret it, & it will end up costing you more $$$ & effort to buy a "starter" bike, then sell & buy again.
You've test ridden a S2R1k? If that's what you love, go for it!
+1
Buy the S2R1000 [thumbsup]
Of course get the big beautiful S2R !!!
You don't have to put it on ebay after two months then [cheeky]
My 2-cents:
No decision here - the 'liter' bike...you'll be glad when you need some extra power. I've owned a M1000 for 4 years (>12,000 miles) and took a 620 for a demo ride. It's OK as long as you're on level ground and don't want to make up distance in a hurry....
Seriously, the 1K is a fine all-around package for 99% of spirited street riding and loves open spaces - the 620 would be better if you're doing all your riding "in town".
FWIW - the M800 aka S2R is a good bike, too.
I was in your boat a month ago. I too grew up on dirt bikes, ATVs, etc. But I hadn't ridden street bikes very much. I pondered both the 696 and S2R1K for weeks. Then I rode em both... enough said. The S2R just felt right. In my opinion it was more comfortable, more torquey, and felt more substantial. It was just what I was looking for. I do feel I would grow out of the 696 too quickly. I thought the 696 was a great bike, but it really bothered my wrists after 15 miles of riding. I also didn't like the position of the family jewels with regard to the tank. One hard brake and I can tell you that I'd be speaking an octave higher. I do like the look of the 696 and know that the S2R look is short lived....but I love the look. I love that there are TONS of mods out there.
I ended up finding an 07 S2R1K with 143 miles on it. I was not keen on black or red, so color was the biggest issue I had with a new S2R1K. The one I found was ideal (silver/black stripe). Had I gone with the 696, I would have gone with the white.
Just my .02. I love the bike. I made the right decision for me. I have 800 miles on it now, and have enjoyed every one I've put on.
I'm the proud owner of an S2R1K so my .02 cents are going to be a little biased. I did sit on a 696 and it felt a little small to me, though it looks like it might be fun. One word of warning about the S2R: be prepared to spend $$ on modding, whether it's necessary (known exhaust/fueling issues) or completely unnecessary (open clutch cover, tail chop, reflectorectomy, etc.) Whatever you decide upon, just respect the throttle. Good luck in your decision. ;)
Quote from: Mash on August 04, 2008, 11:27:26 AM
I'm getting ready to take the plunge into street biking. I've ridden off road bikes all my life, and own a small honda now. I also have a Zuma scooter that I've put about 1000 miles on riding around town. I've never owned anything larger than 400cc, but I've ridden a Kaw 900 a few times. I just completed the MSF course and am looking to buy a new bike.
I've been lusting after the monsters for a long time, and it's really the bike I want. I won't be using it to commute, since I work from home. I've heard the advice to just buy a used sv650 and learn on that, but I really want something new, and I want a monster.
I've seen the new 696 and, while it's not really true to the monster lineage, it's a nice bike. (I think I would have to change the saddle right away, though because my nuts get crushed just sitting on the thing.) The S2R1K still has the monster image, IMHO.
I'm not an experienced street rider, but I can ride a motorcycle. Would I be foolish thinking I could ride an S2R1K gingerly and take advantage of the capabilities when my skills catch up, or should I just settle for a 696 and move up when I'm ready?
I picked the essential parts of your post - there's your answer. Ducatis are sooo much about heart - listen to what yours tells you [thumbsup]
+ 11ty billion on the S2R1000. You won't be sorry.
hell if you can find a good deal on an 05 06 S4R, id look at that too.
wow, thanks for all the replies. after i posted the original questions, i felt as if I might get blasted for being such a newb, and asking stupid questions. it's cool to see you guys really have an opinion and are willing to share it.
it's rare that i see a used s2r for sale around the D.C. area, but if one shows up I would definitely consider it. otherwise I'll find a way to get a new one. Now the bigger question.... red or black? i'm leaning towards the black one... they sure have a sinister look.
Red or black (NOT the bigger question)..................(OK, it's kind of big 8))
Again, follow your heart - either will be fine.
- and welcome here [thumbsup]
I am in the same boat, love the 696 styling but afraid to one: buy a brand new bike and two: dont want to buy something that in a year i would like more power. So I am on the hunt for a 2006 2007 S2R 1000.
Definitely black. And budget for the Termi's or Arrows. ;D You won't regret it.
(http://www.emptyrefrigerator.com/black.JPG)
Quote from: Mash on August 05, 2008, 06:02:35 PM
it's rare that i see a used s2r for sale around the D.C. area, but if one shows up I would definitely consider it. otherwise I'll find a way to get a new one.
Rare? I just found multiple S2r's in 20 seconds via CycleTrader.com
Have a look: http://www.cycletrader.com/find/search-results/Zip-20001/Radius-250/Type-Motorcycle/Category-all/Make-All/Price-0,/Keyword-s2r/Sort%2DYear:DESC/ (http://www.cycletrader.com/find/search-results/Zip-20001/Radius-250/Type-Motorcycle/Category-all/Make-All/Price-0,/Keyword-s2r/Sort%2DYear:DESC/)
You can adjust your search. If you find one too far to go get yourself you can use UShip.com and have it delivered to you. That's what I did a month ago. Cost me only $500 (insurance included) to have it shipped all the way from Los Angeles to north Mississippi !
You better arrange test ride for both of them. I had S2R1K for 5weeks while waiting my M696 and I was little worried how lame the M696 would feel after 'real' mostro.
BUT when I got my M696 I was totally surprised how amazing it is. S2R1K is a great bike but it feels like a shaky locomotive (sorry!) compared to smooth handling of M696.
I have the T14, CF Termis and Pazzo racing levers installed on my M696 now and I just can't imagine better bike. BTW, the touring seat is more healthier for nuts. [laugh]
And I had SV650N K5 for three years before getting M696. Suzuki is a nice bike but...
So, what I wanted to say: go for a test ride ! [thumbsup]
without question, go with black!!! (with black rims if possible...but i'm biased towards dark models [evil])
2nd for me would be the silver with black stripe...
....or red with black rims is NICE!.... :-[
crap man, good luck on that decision... [moto]
Well I went for a 06 S2R1000, Silver with black stripe, full arrow carbon fiber exhaust with ecu. $7765 with 3000 miles on it. I based this decision on the fact the 696 is a brand new bike this year and usually brand new stuff always will have some little issue and that it being a small displacement bike it would lose value faster. I could be wrong and I hope I didnt make the wrong choice. Will be picking it up next weekend.
Turbo 'Busa
[/thread]
Beating a dead horse to death go with what you want, you'll be happier in the end. [thumbsup]
(http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm285/s2r1000/cliponsrightsideview.jpg?t=1218241061)
c'mmon.........you know you want it ;)
Quote from: stopintime on August 05, 2008, 04:25:46 PM
I picked the essential parts of your post - there's your answer. Ducatis are sooo much about heart - listen to what yours tells you [thumbsup]
thank you for saving me the dangerous reply.
the ron [evil]
Quote from: Gofaster2 on August 08, 2008, 04:13:09 PM
Well I went for a 06 S2R1000, Silver with black stripe, full arrow carbon fiber exhaust with ecu. $7765 with 3000 miles on it. I based this decision on the fact the 696 is a brand new bike this year and usually brand new stuff always will have some little issue and that it being a small displacement bike it would lose value faster. I could be wrong and I hope I didnt make the wrong choice. Will be picking it up next weekend.
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
the ron [evil]
Run Ron! Run!
It's not safe for you to be in this thread :o
Quote from: herm on August 08, 2008, 05:18:32 PM
(http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm285/s2r1000/cliponsrightsideview.jpg?t=1218241061)
c'mmon.........you know you want it ;)
Holy crap i love exbox's on S2R's...
So frickin sexy...
It's me again... the OP.
I was all set to drop a small fortune on a new S2R, when I came across an '06 S2R1000 in red/white. I snatched it up for just over 7k. The only mods to it are rizoma grips , bar ends, and round retro bar end mirrors (and a missing seat cowl :( ). I've been riding it all day today, and will probably do the same tomorrow. if I knew how to insert bacon into my post, I certainly would....
(http://i239.photobucket.com/albums/ff147/robohaxx/family%20misc/IMG_0115.jpg)
Sports bikes have much more power than people think. I am the only person I know who had a Ninja250 for like 4 years as his first bike (cuz I was broke). But I when I got my S2R800 I respected it that much more. Oh and by the way this is what happened to my S2R recently: http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=9084.0 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=9084.0)
Shit happens, and its way more likely gonna happen on your first bike. Even if you get a 620 it will take you years to take the bike even close to its limits (on a track of course) and if anyone tells you anything else they are fooling themselves. The 620 has way more power then you will ever need in the streets. Don't learn the hard way. Go put this same post in the "Racing and Trackdays" board and I bet you more people will tell you to get the smaller bike...go figure.
not sure if you made your decision yet.
but here's my opinion.
First fact. I had a 99 M900, the original style. people will tell you the sss, high exhaust, or udder bikes are the original style but they aren't. to me the sss bikes are the 2nd gen and the 696 is the 3rd gen of the monsters. Now i have the 696.
2nd fact. I feel the 3rd gen bike far out handles the 1st gen bike. I haven't ridden the 2nd gen.
3rd fact. My M900 had 74hp, my 696 90hp.
There is no way i was ever going to touch the limits of the M900 and felt it was always too much bike.
The 696 is perfect for me. I plan on taking it to Europe and will ride on the autobahn and mountain twisties and still feel it will be the perfect bike for it. there comes a time when too much power is too much. Sure you can go faster, but do you need to?
Take the 696, you'll love it. later if you feel you need to get more power, buy a second bike. bet you ride the 696 more.
Quotepeople will tell you the sss, high exhaust, or udder bikes are the original style but they aren't. to me the sss bikes are the 2nd gen and the 696 is the 3rd gen of the monsters.
Interesting notion
QuoteThere is no way i was ever going to touch the limits of the M900 and felt it was always too much bike.
With that attitude you can get a 1098. Its just so important to understand and respect how far technology has come on these bikes while humans and street speed limits have remained the same. The only problem is as a new rider you are naturally going to want to see "what it feels like" to go fast and that should be left for the track IMHO. I highly recommend "Ride Hard Ride Smart" and "Smooth Riding". Both these books are for advanced riders but you could still benefit from reading them.
With that attitude you can get a 1098. Its just so important to understand and respect how far technology has come on these bikes while humans and street speed limits have remained the same. The only problem is as a new rider you are naturally going to want to see "what it feels like" to go fast and that should be left for the track IMHO. I highly recommend "Ride Hard Ride Smart" and "Smooth Riding". Both these books are for advanced riders but you could still benefit from reading them.
[/quote]
Let me explain. The M900 had power and gobs of torque. more than i really thought i could use on the street, and to some extent more than i would ever use. and yes you could say that a 1098 or even a 848 would be more than you would ever use... on the street. For me, being smoother and being in better control of the bike was more important than POWER and TORQUE ratings. The 696 is a very smooth and in my opinion properly powered for its weight and MY uses. I won't be going to the track and trying to ring out ever last ounce of my skill (or lack there of) and the bikes capabilities. But on the street, the 696 is more than enough.
Agreed.
okay, so I've had the s2r1000 for a couple weeks now, and I've ridden it every day since I got it. I work from home, so I'm around the bike most of the time. This is my first streetbike. Having a lot of experience on dirt bikes, it's been more about relearning some skills, as opposed to learning new skills. I've been driving cars for 35 years without an accident, and I drive my m/c the same way I drive my car.
The s2r1000, once I did the 14t mod, is a really streetable machine whether in traffic, or on an open parkway. Staying under 5k rpm, i can travel in 40mph traffic nicely (in 2nd or 3rd gear). On the faster roads, I can use the same gears, tach it up past 5k, and it just purrs. sometimes I get up into 5th gear, but other than to check if it was really there, I haven't used 6th gear. I'm sure some of you may be hatin' on me about my slow-pokedness, but I don't drive my car faster than about 85, so why would I do it on my bike. I'm not a racer, but I am a gearhead.
So I've found that the s2r1000 can be both a tame little monster rumbling along in traffic, or it can really put out a breathtaking amount of power (for me) if I want it to. I'm happy with my decision to get the bigger monster. extra happy.
Went on a ride with vindingo and his 620 and my buddy with his 996, plus my s2r800. Vinnie rides the snot out of the 620, I had a hard time keeping up with him in some places. It's more the rider than the bike. My buddy on the 996 nearly shi7 himself when vinnie told him it was a 620 [thumbsup]