So true, especially the wrist bit... But I have to say that overall I find my 996 very easy to live with. I even did a lot of commuting with it last year when i didn't have a car. They are just so easy to ride in traffic with all the low end torque. And when you have the chance you just ride that wave up to 10k rpm with no downshifting needed. Love that bike
I have a 996 and you are right about the heat. I rarely ride in traffic so that's not an issue for me. Many complain about the ergonomics (sore wrists, and butt), but I haven't had any issue there. I'm nearly 60 yrs old and put in 4-5 hr rides and track days without any issues. The key with this motorcycle (or any other for that matter) is to not support your weight with your arms/wrists. Instead, I've learned to use my abs and squeeze the tank with my thighs. Give it a try and find some fast sweeping roads to blow that hot air out.
@@thekingmezger you must be a masochist then 😄. I was thinking if you find it’s too hot, you don’t ride it fast enough 😀. I had the privilege of owning one end 90s which I sold as I was frustrated not being able to ride it to its potential living in a country where riding a sport motorcycle was getting more and more difficult. Concerning the wrist thing, I also had this problem but only with the left one because the clutch was a bit hard. The problem disappeared though after a couple of rides. I can tell you, I still dream regularly that it is still in my garage and that I should get it out for a spin. I’ll never forget it and the sound of the Termi’s past 7000 rpm. This bike is a legend, take good care of them and above all, enjoy!
@@benvoyons626 thanks and will do! It is an absolute blast to ride. I actually made this video to scare away “wanna be Tamburini owners” who think this is just a bike. It’s not. It’s a legend.
I have two 996. I would never recommend one to someone that likes riding other than the track. They are great bikes but unbearably bad for riding in the city. On the track they are fantastic.
No, because of the sensations YOU feel, the vibrations, the sounds, the smell, the looks, etc. "Because they're iconic" sounds like you just want people to see you owning one and belonging to a club. Understandable reason, but if that's the main one, it's pathetic.
All of that is true but once you open the throttle on the highway, you put up with everything bad with pleasure. I own a 996 and every time I ride it I arrive in pain but with a big smile on my face.
I just bought a 996 and drove it home, 6 hours from midnight only stopping for fuel. That was after sitting in my car for 6 hours to get there. What a beast, I’m in love with it. I need to find some Ferraci clip ons. That will make it right for me.
The heat you talk about on 90’s Ducati’s should be compared to modern Panigale V2/V4 Ducati’s. Because that is what people that are coming from that buy these bikes. Riding both bikes in Summer in Australia at high 30C’s, the 9XX series is much better than any Panigale series. And I love my Panigale. But the 98’ 916SPS is a holiday in comparison to my other bikes, and nowhere near the heat ovens of Panigale V2 or V4. You are straddling racing horsepower for fun and coffee runs, and based on the HP output = this equals heat. Can’t beat physics. You need to accept that. The 916 is a baby in my garage. Fantastic geometry. Brilliant power to weight ratio. And a fun retro bike to own on the streets because 130hp is more fun than many litre bikes in the restricted twisty’s on policed roads. What I’m trying to say is, Heat is not an issue. Ergonomics is an issue, in comparison to modern bikes. You can swap out the bars to get a wider stance. But then it’s “aftermarket”, and the purists that buy these bikes might have an issue. But I can ride to the fuel stops without too much fatigue, and I’m no athlete in my 40 plus years of beer drinking. If you are going to put on the staddle-bags for a cross country trip then I recommend getting wider bars that flex out a bit. But why fuck around, just get a BMW and admit your age. They require your full attention if you are inexperienced with riding any Sportbikes at all. There’s no ABS or traction control. But it's still just a 130hp bike (with the 916 SPS I run). Anyone with 2 years of riding could manage this bike easily. I wish that I could say you needed some secret sauce to ride vintage Ducati’s, but two years and a deep wallet for maintenance will tick every box required. My parting advice is to buy this bike. It’s not as easy as the previous modern bikes you own. But it's fun. Makes you feel cool as fuck. And It will never depreciate in value if you buy the right one. Look at SPS or SP variants if you are on the market. But ride it. Don’t let the bike sit in a garage. You would be perpetuating a crime.
I have a 996 SPS and recently raised the handlebars by 2 inches higher and closer towards me. Now I can ride it all day long like its a CBR 900rr, it feels so sublime. Its the best mod I've ever made to a bike and it took just under an hour to do..
My 748L allows me use the whole rev range which is lots of fun. It’s my first and only bike and I ride as much as I can. For some people this bike is perfect and well worth the effort.
I've done 700km on a day with this bike (97 senna III), when you get home you just go straight to bed 🤣 There's no energy left. Buttpain is not that clear for me but the wrists, damned... And yeah, my boot is melting on the exhaustpipes. This bike gives you an analog feel of riding, it's raw. LOVE it
I rode my 1999 748 from CT to CA and back, 7,200 miles one summer. It’s not a bike for everyone, but if you have problems with it...buy a Harley or a BMW. This is a track platform. If you use it otherwise, it’s on you to adapt to it. It’s easy to be a critic, show me your best design...I think it will fall short of the masters work.
Everything you said, I agree with 100% about my 996...when stopping for gas I would lay on the pavement to straighten out my back, I was always drenched in full leathers baking hot, wrists still hurt and I sold the bike 18 years ago...but I loved every second of it!
Love my 998 final edition. Agree with all you said in the video but I adore it. Was my dream bike as a kid and it has aged amazingly well. Never recommend them to anyone. They are for people who have a screw loose.
This was my dream bike when I was in high school. I would buy one just to look at. And I don't have a motorcycle license. And definitely not a commuter bike.
These mechanical treasures were built by passionate people for people that understand what they are and why they exist. There really isn’t any compromise necessary. They call out to the people that belong on them. They are the best COMMUTER bikes....... if that’s what you desire. Reasoning.....One doesn’t have to Race home to your machine.....after work....you’re living as soon as the side stand is up and the grip is twisted. LIVE LOVE RIDE
I miss my 01 996s SO much I am currently trying to find another after 3 years. Everything you said is so true, i had a full arrow 60mm titanium exhaust that put me $3,400 out of pocket and had a shop wrap it super well for me, cut down alot on the heat. as far as the wrist thing, so true, I personally have very strong wrists (for undisclosed reasons) but i LOVE the aggresive seating position and a little pain is worth the way that the 916 etc really makes you feel like you are in a cockpit.
Lol sounds like he's talking about all my Ducati's I have owned 1098, 1199, 1299 Super hot , uncomfortable ergonomics, wrists hurt but all worth the price of admission to ride that I- talian red rocket
The bike series is an intense experience. Just starting my 748 pushes my buttons. F by F risers helped keep feeling in my fingers. I always wear a riding suit cause of the heat. Not for everybody unfortunately, but as real a thing as there is
You said it yourself: it's a race bike, not a commuter ... if you chose to use it in the city traffic you shouldn't say the bike is bad: it's just you not using it for what it was built for. p.s.: if your wrists hurt, it means you're using your body wrong... you shouldn't lean on your arms as it will put too much pressure on the hadlebars and therefore make the bike more nervous and sketchy.. you should use legs, back, and arms to evenly distribute your weight. If you want a powerful but comfortable bike have you ever considered the Multistrada? I have the 2010 model and it's a beast with the Testastretta 11 engine (I also have the 748 with the 853 kit and it's just phenomenal.. easily keeps up with all the other 9's so no lack of power there)
Lovely 916 - however in my opinion Ducati 748 is the better model. It still does 0-100km/h in 3.1 seconds and maximum top speed 240km/h. It is the most planted motorcycle you can imagine. Lighter and more agile in the corners. street friendly with same bodystyle - what’s not to love? 😎
1) Who the heck plans to ride this in town?!?!? get a Vespa (as I did!) 2) load on wrist: correct. When I tested mine, after 3' (I am not exaggerating) I stopped and looked at my palms: they were already reddish sore! but ... ride above 120 k/h, and wind will push you back so the load on the hands will diminish. It looks like bragging, but this is not: pls remember this is a TRULY SPORT bike! If you read Wikipedia you will find that the designer "optmized the riding posture for cornering" thus making uncomfortable when riding straight. And this is why it is! 3) posture: this bike is like a tailor suit: it was made for 165-170 cm tall people. I am 182 - not for me, I am aware of that. 4) longer trips: I stop every two ads stations in Italy as this bike gets me tired very quickly. With the GS I can ride for 2 hrs no stop. But what the heck! They are different animals! 5) maintenance cost: the famous belts replacement does not happen every day, nor the demo adjustment. Parts are not expensive. CONCLUSION: this review was made on a rational basis. Go get a BMW or a Japanese bike, buddy! if you hop an this one and love it, all arguments made are IMMATERIAL! Peace and be safe
Some good points BUT... I commute on my 748 and I don't find it bad at all. I also do track days and love it. It's my only bike. I'm 70kg, 178cms tall and 51yrs old. I guess I am the perfect size for it? My neck is the first thing that would ache.
I think what you said at the end sums it all up. With the 916 a prospective owner must approach with realistic expectations. If you do then there's really no problems.. I've done over 50 000 miles on a 996 and find it very comfortable. But it's a sportbike and I approach riding her as an athletic endeavour. It's a demanding machine and if you're not up to the task there's plenty of other machines that will have your soft ass... ;)
This video is completely legit! Everything said is true. I bought a 2001 996 and love it... but I bought for 1/2 art work and 1/2 quick ride for coffee etc. (I am old now)
ducativtwin me too ! Owned my 748s 20 years now ..never broke down ,the heat issue ? Never had it ..keep your rpm down in city traffic l thrashed 916s through sunny London for fast bikes magazine ..and never whinged once .. you don’t go furniture shopping in a Lamborghini !
He's not wrong. I owned a 2002 748 and it was not comfortable even by sportbike standards. It was worth it however. I got a Corbin seat and it helped in that regard. They're not bad on the curvy roads. But on long straight roads then be on the highway the wind holds you up some. Grip the tank with your knees. That also helps the wrist pain. The sounds and the beauty are worth it to me and ill be buying another soon.
Many moons ago, I was having some warranty work done on my V11 Sport. The shop gave me a Ducati 748R as a courtesy bike. I had to take it back after just one mile! I could not lift my head up far enough to be able to see where I was going! Maybe if I had been 19 years old..........!
You’d be surprised how much adjusting your controls and adding stomp grips so you can use your legs more help. For the seat I used padded bicycle shorts and most bikes do get hot but not as bad as Ducati’s. 😀
This man is kind of right, The heat......You don't notice when moving or with proper boots on. Riding position.....is not an issue if you ride a lot and are "Bike fit". The seat can be an issue if you sit still for long on motorways but not at all otherwise. They are more tricky to ride than most sport bikes, you can stall pulling away when no used to it and in standard settings turn like a barge. Lift the rear ride height by 10mm, drop the yokes 7mm fit an ohlins steering damper and a 180 tyre, dial out the static sag and try it. Marchesini wheels will further improve. Ridden mine from the UK to Monza, Assen, Hockenheim and other multiple times.
Being in Scotland the heat from the bike is a joy just added heated grips as well, toasty The seats no worse than my cbr600rr and use your thighs to take the weight off you’re wrists The biggest pain in the arse is the servicing and parts cost (£700 for a clutch, shocking)
yes it’s true but i give zero Fs. i have the 888 the 998 the 1098 and an rsv1000. i love them all and they look sensational. the DP adjustable rearsets and a technosel seat makes a difference but if i want to ride for more than and hour i take the GS1250 rallye TE. the dukes are the bikes you get the thumbs up from passers by. never selling any of them. ride on brother!
I would add the clutch is stiff and will wear out your hand after a decent ride. Of course parts and maintenance on any Ducati never cheap. Agree the ride and sound is like nothing else!
You need to wear leathers on these, your butt will roast in jeans. So true, I have FBF bars on mine, they add a small rise but don’t effect handling like a true bar riser does. Still they are one of the best handling and iconic motorcycles of all time. I like that you sit in them, not on them like earlier and later motorcycles.
Grip the tank with your knees and use your legs - your wrists will thank you. I had a 748. No way 100 hp is weak. I also owned a F650GS BMW and for comfort I would take the Ducati any day. I found the upright position of the BMW with all my upper body weight on my butt to be excruciating after about an hour and it vibrated bad. I couldn't wait to get off it, in fact I hated it for all its pretensions to comfort and its undeniable sterility. No tears were shed when it sold. The Ducati on the other hand was 100% involving and I loved the position and solo seat. I was in the bike, not just a passive passenger. To me it was comfortable and I enjoyed every single kilometre. I only sold it because my increasing confidence was going to get me killed. I miss it every day though.
It is not for the city. that's for shure, but when you are riding above 80 km/h all fits perfect. Hey, it is a racing machine, not a cafe racer. I have the 748 since 2001 an i love it still.
But who buys a supersport for the street? This bike says "oh honey, faster please, faster!! all the time. Why would you go waste those precious miles riding in the city? Never had any issues of heat. I also have a 1190 KTM adventure, so I know what "warm thighs at red light" means. Posture? I'm 1m90 and way taller than any average italian bloke and can stay a day long on my standard steering 916 (yes, it's not a Goldwing but it's really not that dramatic). about the 748: "very weak engine"? It makes 10hp less on the dyno...I've never ridden one but I doubt you'd really have a totally different experience. Certainly not if comparing a standard 916 to a 748 R
The problem with these bikes is that they are made for small people, if you have more than 175 this is already very uncomfortable, but if you are between 165 175, very common height for Southern european people, you get totally fitted on the bike, you are mostly just leaning and resting on it.
OK is not for you, it's a racing superbyke of 90... for me it's one of the best superbyke ever made and I love it... see my nik name... include "998" :) is very comfortable if you are able to drive it fast...
I haven't even watched this video and I think I get the angle you're probably coming from, as a former Honda SP1 owner I think your probably coming from the same place I did on the SP1, its really down to fact that they dont have any "road manners". Everybike in WSB at the time was based off production sports/superbikes being tuned up for racing, the Ducati and the SP1 were designed as race bikes first, then they bolted some lights and indicators on them to get them through "homologation" AND because of that, on the Honda anyway it made them crap to ride on the road until the second it was full wide open throttle...then everything made sense. BUT drive it around at normal road speed limits and traffic speeds and they were just horrid, on the SP1 your wrists would go on fire if you had to do slow speed manuvering due to the size of the endurance class tank on it, down low the fuel injection was crap and stumbly etc etc...but crack it wide open and you'd have a smile on your face...for about 2 secs then you hit the speed limits lol
I dont know , for me one of the best bike's i ever drove ..i made some time's 1300 km a day in combination of high way and B roads .for me heaven to drive it and also the emotional part just dream for every twin lover !!!
There’s only one thing i really hate about ducati 916, its cheap sounding v-twin engine. It really is gorgeous but i just hope it already had a v-four engine back then coz the v-twin sound awful and the vibration is terrible at high rev coz the twin cyclinders are overworked.
Who'd have thought a race replica would be hard to live with on the road😂 if you use it as it was designed I.e twisties and moving round the bike it's a dream 😊 ride it in town or long straight roads it's gonna hurt you all over😂
Ducati... beautiful pieces of artwork, but would be terrible for my 4+ hour rides into the mountains. Best to admire them on the showroom floor, and leave them to the younger guys that can put up with the extreme riding positions.
My 1198sp is no different as far as ergonomics, it’s not meant to ride to Starbucks my friend, I would happily take that off your hands. Perhaps a nice Honda magna.
So true, especially the wrist bit... But I have to say that overall I find my 996 very easy to live with. I even did a lot of commuting with it last year when i didn't have a car. They are just so easy to ride in traffic with all the low end torque. And when you have the chance you just ride that wave up to 10k rpm with no downshifting needed. Love that bike
I have a 996 and you are right about the heat. I rarely ride in traffic so that's not an issue for me. Many complain about the ergonomics (sore wrists, and butt), but I haven't had any issue there. I'm nearly 60 yrs old and put in 4-5 hr rides and track days without any issues. The key with this motorcycle (or any other for that matter) is to not support your weight with your arms/wrists. Instead, I've learned to use my abs and squeeze the tank with my thighs. Give it a try and find some fast sweeping roads to blow that hot air out.
Clearly the 916 is not for you. May I suggest a Honda Goldwing? Sheesh...
I actually bought a second one.
@@thekingmezger you must be a masochist then 😄. I was thinking if you find it’s too hot, you don’t ride it fast enough 😀.
I had the privilege of owning one end 90s which I sold as I was frustrated not being able to ride it to its potential living in a country where riding a sport motorcycle was getting more and more difficult.
Concerning the wrist thing, I also had this problem but only with the left one because the clutch was a bit hard. The problem disappeared though after a couple of rides.
I can tell you, I still dream regularly that it is still in my garage and that I should get it out for a spin. I’ll never forget it and the sound of the Termi’s past 7000 rpm. This bike is a legend, take good care of them and above all, enjoy!
@@benvoyons626 thanks and will do! It is an absolute blast to ride. I actually made this video to scare away “wanna be Tamburini owners” who think this is just a bike. It’s not. It’s a legend.
I would love it to have a bike like that!! It's always been my dream I'm from South Africa@@thekingmezger
I have two 996. I would never recommend one to someone that likes riding other than the track. They are great bikes but unbearably bad for riding in the city. On the track they are fantastic.
Dude it's a street legal race bike what do you want.
You don't ride a 916 because it's comfortable, you ride one because they're iconic.
Amen.... sound looks feel..
No, because of the sensations YOU feel, the vibrations, the sounds, the smell, the looks, etc. "Because they're iconic" sounds like you just want people to see you owning one and belonging to a club. Understandable reason, but if that's the main one, it's pathetic.
Yes I have one...all is true.....you are right even you forgot some points. But that’s exactly why it is the best one. :)
i have a 998 and I agree with everything you said. And yet, its faults somehow make it even more special.
The most specials motorcycle of them all!
@@thekingmezger As Kryten, said "It's those cute little flaws that keep a guy interested" 😁
I agree 100%, but still i love it, this bike has character, style & sound! I own a 916 SPS from 97 😍
All of that is true but once you open the throttle on the highway, you put up with everything bad with pleasure. I own a 996 and every time I ride it I arrive in pain but with a big smile on my face.
Do some sit ups to hold your body up, put on some Ferraci clip ons, and quit whinning. I love my 2000 996.
The Ferraci clip ons are what made it possible to ride my 996 all day.
I just bought a 996 and drove it home, 6 hours from midnight only stopping for fuel. That was after sitting in my car for 6 hours to get there. What a beast, I’m in love with it. I need to find some Ferraci clip ons. That will make it right for me.
The heat you talk about on 90’s Ducati’s should be compared to modern Panigale V2/V4 Ducati’s. Because that is what people that are coming from that buy these bikes. Riding both bikes in Summer in Australia at high 30C’s, the 9XX series is much better than any Panigale series. And I love my Panigale. But the 98’ 916SPS is a holiday in comparison to my other bikes, and nowhere near the heat ovens of Panigale V2 or V4. You are straddling racing horsepower for fun and coffee runs, and based on the HP output = this equals heat. Can’t beat physics. You need to accept that. The 916 is a baby in my garage. Fantastic geometry. Brilliant power to weight ratio. And a fun retro bike to own on the streets because 130hp is more fun than many litre bikes in the restricted twisty’s on policed roads. What I’m trying to say is, Heat is not an issue.
Ergonomics is an issue, in comparison to modern bikes. You can swap out the bars to get a wider stance. But then it’s “aftermarket”, and the purists that buy these bikes might have an issue. But I can ride to the fuel stops without too much fatigue, and I’m no athlete in my 40 plus years of beer drinking. If you are going to put on the staddle-bags for a cross country trip then I recommend getting wider bars that flex out a bit. But why fuck around, just get a BMW and admit your age.
They require your full attention if you are inexperienced with riding any Sportbikes at all. There’s no ABS or traction control. But it's still just a 130hp bike (with the 916 SPS I run). Anyone with 2 years of riding could manage this bike easily. I wish that I could say you needed some secret sauce to ride vintage Ducati’s, but two years and a deep wallet for maintenance will tick every box required.
My parting advice is to buy this bike. It’s not as easy as the previous modern bikes you own. But it's fun. Makes you feel cool as fuck. And It will never depreciate in value if you buy the right one. Look at SPS or SP variants if you are on the market. But ride it. Don’t let the bike sit in a garage. You would be perpetuating a crime.
I test rode a V2 and the heat was alarming. In the end I picked up a 748, and the heat is less of an issue than it was on the V2.
@@TheOriginalCoda 748's are awesome. You'll have a lot of fun with that.
I have a 996 SPS and recently raised the handlebars by 2 inches higher and closer towards me. Now I can ride it all day long like its a CBR 900rr, it feels so sublime. Its the best mod I've ever made to a bike and it took just under an hour to do..
How exactly did you do this, did you buy risers? which ones?
My 748L allows me use the whole rev range which is lots of fun. It’s my first and only bike and I ride as much as I can. For some people this bike is perfect and well worth the effort.
I've done 700km on a day with this bike (97 senna III), when you get home you just go straight to bed 🤣 There's no energy left. Buttpain is not that clear for me but the wrists, damned... And yeah, my boot is melting on the exhaustpipes. This bike gives you an analog feel of riding, it's raw. LOVE it
Lol that is true! And I love that
I rode my 1999 748 from CT to CA and back, 7,200 miles one summer. It’s not a bike for everyone, but if you have problems with it...buy a Harley or a BMW. This is a track platform. If you use it otherwise, it’s on you to adapt to it. It’s easy to be a critic, show me your best design...I think it will fall short of the masters work.
Everything you said, I agree with 100% about my 996...when stopping for gas I would lay on the pavement to straighten out my back, I was always drenched in full leathers baking hot, wrists still hurt and I sold the bike 18 years ago...but I loved every second of it!
Love my 998 final edition. Agree with all you said in the video but I adore it. Was my dream bike as a kid and it has aged amazingly well. Never recommend them to anyone. They are for people who have a screw loose.
This was my dream bike when I was in high school. I would buy one just to look at. And I don't have a motorcycle license. And definitely not a commuter bike.
These mechanical treasures were built by passionate people for people that understand what they are and why they exist. There really isn’t any compromise necessary. They call out to the people that belong on them. They are the best COMMUTER bikes....... if that’s what you desire. Reasoning.....One doesn’t have to Race home to your machine.....after work....you’re living as soon as the side stand is up and the grip is twisted.
LIVE LOVE RIDE
Everything falls into place when you go above 55-60 miles/h...love mine.
I miss my 01 996s SO much I am currently trying to find another after 3 years. Everything you said is so true, i had a full arrow 60mm titanium exhaust that put me $3,400 out of pocket and had a shop wrap it super well for me, cut down alot on the heat. as far as the wrist thing, so true, I personally have very strong wrists (for undisclosed reasons) but i LOVE the aggresive seating position and a little pain is worth the way that the 916 etc really makes you feel like you are in a cockpit.
Lol sounds like he's talking about all my Ducati's I have owned 1098, 1199, 1299 Super hot , uncomfortable ergonomics, wrists hurt but all worth the price of admission to ride that I- talian red rocket
The bike series is an intense experience. Just starting my 748 pushes my buttons. F by F risers helped keep feeling in my fingers. I always wear a riding suit cause of the heat. Not for everybody unfortunately, but as real a thing as there is
You said it yourself: it's a race bike, not a commuter ... if you chose to use it in the city traffic you shouldn't say the bike is bad: it's just you not using it for what it was built for.
p.s.: if your wrists hurt, it means you're using your body wrong... you shouldn't lean on your arms as it will put too much pressure on the hadlebars and therefore make the bike more nervous and sketchy.. you should use legs, back, and arms to evenly distribute your weight.
If you want a powerful but comfortable bike have you ever considered the Multistrada? I have the 2010 model and it's a beast with the Testastretta 11 engine (I also have the 748 with the 853 kit and it's just phenomenal.. easily keeps up with all the other 9's so no lack of power there)
These are for people who want to go fast, if you don't want to go fast with style, get a goldwing or something. 👍🏁
Lovely 916 - however in my opinion Ducati 748 is the better model. It still does 0-100km/h in 3.1 seconds and maximum top speed 240km/h. It is the most planted motorcycle you can imagine. Lighter and more agile in the corners. street friendly with same bodystyle - what’s not to love? 😎
I like overtaking without dropping two gears.
@@paulking8055 748cc twin has a ton of power for overtaking at low rpm. Torque all day long as a two cylinder Ducati
i love mine. I am a fan since it was available in 94.
1) Who the heck plans to ride this in town?!?!? get a Vespa (as I did!)
2) load on wrist: correct. When I tested mine, after 3' (I am not exaggerating) I stopped and looked at my palms: they were already reddish sore! but ... ride above 120 k/h, and wind will push you back so the load on the hands will diminish. It looks like bragging, but this is not: pls remember this is a TRULY SPORT bike!
If you read Wikipedia you will find that the designer "optmized the riding posture for cornering" thus making uncomfortable when riding straight. And this is why it is!
3) posture: this bike is like a tailor suit: it was made for 165-170 cm tall people. I am 182 - not for me, I am aware of that.
4) longer trips: I stop every two ads stations in Italy as this bike gets me tired very quickly. With the GS I can ride for 2 hrs no stop. But what the heck! They are different animals!
5) maintenance cost: the famous belts replacement does not happen every day, nor the demo adjustment. Parts are not expensive.
CONCLUSION: this review was made on a rational basis. Go get a BMW or a Japanese bike, buddy! if you hop an this one and love it, all arguments made are IMMATERIAL!
Peace and be safe
It's called character
Some good points BUT... I commute on my 748 and I don't find it bad at all. I also do track days and love it. It's my only bike. I'm 70kg, 178cms tall and 51yrs old. I guess I am the perfect size for it? My neck is the first thing that would ache.
Ahah yeah it’s a bike that wants you to be fit!
I think what you said at the end sums it all up. With the 916 a prospective owner must approach with realistic expectations. If you do then there's really no problems..
I've done over 50 000 miles on a 996 and find it very comfortable. But it's a sportbike and I approach riding her as an athletic endeavour. It's a demanding machine and if you're not up to the task there's plenty of other machines that will have your soft ass... ;)
This video is completely legit! Everything said is true. I bought a 2001 996 and love it... but I bought for 1/2 art work and 1/2 quick ride for coffee etc. (I am old now)
I LOVE MY 916 - ridden it all over Europe, will never sell it. so stick that up your exhaust!!
ducativtwin me too ! Owned my 748s 20 years now ..never broke down ,the heat issue ? Never had it ..keep your rpm down in city traffic l thrashed 916s through sunny London for fast bikes magazine ..and never whinged once .. you don’t go furniture shopping in a Lamborghini !
@@pabloandersonbye1069 Ditto........Assen and Monza, You remember those SBK days?
hey, what are you blabbering about, the 916 is meant to be a race bike not a commuter's moped
He's not wrong. I owned a 2002 748 and it was not comfortable even by sportbike standards. It was worth it however. I got a Corbin seat and it helped in that regard. They're not bad on the curvy roads. But on long straight roads then be on the highway the wind holds you up some. Grip the tank with your knees. That also helps the wrist pain. The sounds and the beauty are worth it to me and ill be buying another soon.
Many moons ago, I was having some warranty work done on my V11 Sport. The shop gave me a Ducati 748R as a courtesy bike. I had to take it back after just one mile! I could not lift my head up far enough to be able to see where I was going! Maybe if I had been 19 years old..........!
You’d be surprised how much adjusting your controls and adding stomp grips so you can use your legs more help. For the seat I used padded bicycle shorts and most bikes do get hot but not as bad as Ducati’s. 😀
I had a 998 as my daily abt 15 yrs ago. It was the longest two months of my life lol.
Fair enough....Solution- ride during dry cold winter days for 20 miles or less
Main reason why they are horrible riding bikes:
YOU ARE NOT RIDING IT FAST ENOUGH!
(Ducati owner since 1978)
This man is kind of right, The heat......You don't notice when moving or with proper boots on. Riding position.....is not an issue if you ride a lot and are "Bike fit". The seat can be an issue if you sit still for long on motorways but not at all otherwise. They are more tricky to ride than most sport bikes, you can stall pulling away when no used to it and in standard settings turn like a barge. Lift the rear ride height by 10mm, drop the yokes 7mm fit an ohlins steering damper and a 180 tyre, dial out the static sag and try it. Marchesini wheels will further improve. Ridden mine from the UK to Monza, Assen, Hockenheim and other multiple times.
If you ride every day on country roads you adapt, build some back muscles and it gets much better. But they are always horrible in town.
1. Riding in Scotland - heat is a bonus
2. Fit Helibars and it is almost bearable
3. Corbin Seat - nearly comfortable😊
You gotta love all the pains from this bike. There’s nothing like a Tamburini motorcycle from Borgo Panigale.
Totally agree. It’s what makes it unique.
Ducati 916真美，也很經典👍👍大兄弟，知道ducati 916的主車架是什麼型號嗎？這個車架在998、999，以及像916這款經典車致敬的車款1098也用到了這款主車架，很想知道這款主車架是什麼型號🤔
They are heavy and burn your balls, but otherwise it’s what you expect from a super-sports bike
yes, all true, but what a ride when you get the corners right.. going to be a tough day when I come to sell mine.
Right?! All is forgiven
All good points. But they are all obvious points. If the buyer doesn't see those issues, then they deserve the pain & punishment. 😆
Ahah fully agree!
I love Ducati. Best bikes ever!
How do you find the comfort of the 999 compared to the 916?
Agree with everything you said. Had a beautiful 996 with all the bits and parts but it was just to heavy on the wrist. Sold it after a month.
Doesnt matter, i love them
はじめまして。
私もこのバイクに乗っています。
乗っているのは996。
あなたの言う通り、この3つの事実は本当に厄介です。
それによって故障も多いです。
でも、一番厄介なのは、このバイクがあまりにも魅力的すぎで、永遠に手放せないという4つ目の事実です。
私は女性ですが、女性からみても嫉妬するほどのこの美しいボディーライン、奏でるエンジン音、全てに魅了されっぱなしです。
困りました
これからもずっと大事に乗り続けていこうと思います。
日本語で申し訳ありません。
ありがとうございました
Hey King, is that an actual SP?!
Are you here in the States?
I have ‘95 SP and have never met anyone else with on here stateside.
Being in Scotland the heat from the bike is a joy just added heated grips as well, toasty
The seats no worse than my cbr600rr and use your thighs to take the weight off you’re wrists
The biggest pain in the arse is the servicing and parts cost (£700 for a clutch, shocking)
Best sounding Internal combustion heater!
yes it’s true but i give zero Fs. i have the 888 the 998 the 1098 and an rsv1000. i love them all and they look sensational. the DP adjustable rearsets and a technosel seat makes a difference but if i want to ride for more than and hour i take the GS1250 rallye TE. the dukes are the bikes you get the thumbs up from passers by. never selling any of them. ride on brother!
I would add the clutch is stiff and will wear out your hand after a decent ride. Of course parts and maintenance on any Ducati never cheap. Agree the ride and sound is like nothing else!
Brandon agree, I will make another video on it!
Thank you. Saved me from a bad buy.
You need to wear leathers on these, your butt will roast in jeans. So true, I have FBF bars on mine, they add a small rise but don’t effect handling like a true bar riser does. Still they are one of the best handling and iconic motorcycles of all time. I like that you sit in them, not on them like earlier and later motorcycles.
Sounds like every sportsbike out there.
Wrist don't hurt if legs are strong. That bp is way forwards tho
Rode mine to work and back for 10 years no problems . even in 40C days
These are what you call champagne problems.
In Scotland all that heat is a positive not a negative mate.
Grip the tank with your knees and use your legs - your wrists will thank you. I had a 748. No way 100 hp is weak. I also owned a F650GS BMW and for comfort I would take the Ducati any day. I found the upright position of the BMW with all my upper body weight on my butt to be excruciating after about an hour and it vibrated bad. I couldn't wait to get off it, in fact I hated it for all its pretensions to comfort and its undeniable sterility. No tears were shed when it sold. The Ducati on the other hand was 100% involving and I loved the position and solo seat. I was in the bike, not just a passive passenger. To me it was comfortable and I enjoyed every single kilometre. I only sold it because my increasing confidence was going to get me killed. I miss it every day though.
It is not for the city. that's for shure, but when you are riding above 80 km/h all fits perfect. Hey, it is a racing machine, not a cafe racer. I have the 748 since 2001 an i love it still.
But who buys a supersport for the street? This bike says "oh honey, faster please, faster!! all the time. Why would you go waste those precious miles riding in the city? Never had any issues of heat. I also have a 1190 KTM adventure, so I know what "warm thighs at red light" means. Posture? I'm 1m90 and way taller than any average italian bloke and can stay a day long on my standard steering 916 (yes, it's not a Goldwing but it's really not that dramatic). about the 748: "very weak engine"? It makes 10hp less on the dyno...I've never ridden one but I doubt you'd really have a totally different experience. Certainly not if comparing a standard 916 to a 748 R
Michael Tanghe agree the 748R is a different beast. I personally found the 748 riding underwhelming
Bro this is why is soo special😂🤸🤸🤸 Ducati not confort Its a RACE bike👌👍
The problem with these bikes is that they are made for small people, if you have more than 175 this is already very uncomfortable, but if you are between 165 175, very common height for Southern european people, you get totally fitted on the bike, you are mostly just leaning and resting on it.
This is not a ride-about-town bike. It is for the open road, having each town en route chiropractors' numbers on speed dial.
OK is not for you, it's a racing superbyke of 90... for me it's one of the best superbyke ever made and I love it... see my nik name... include "998" :) is very comfortable if you are able to drive it fast...
its all true, but those bikes are literaly Track bikes homologated fot road, a yamaha r1 its a normal commuter bike compared to a 916
Because it's uncomfortable would you be interested in selling it?
Over my dead body
He’s 100% right.
You have just said the things I never say 😂 keep it to yourself! All pain turns to pleasure when you ride nothing comes close to Ducati
As much as I lust over these bikes, my 94 900SS is so much easier and more comfortable to ride and maintain.
I haven't even watched this video and I think I get the angle you're probably coming from, as a former Honda SP1 owner I think your probably coming from the same place I did on the SP1, its really down to fact that they dont have any "road manners".
Everybike in WSB at the time was based off production sports/superbikes being tuned up for racing, the Ducati and the SP1 were designed as race bikes first, then they bolted some lights and indicators on them to get them through "homologation" AND because of that, on the Honda anyway it made them crap to ride on the road until the second it was full wide open throttle...then everything made sense.
BUT drive it around at normal road speed limits and traffic speeds and they were just horrid, on the SP1 your wrists would go on fire if you had to do slow speed manuvering due to the size of the endurance class tank on it, down low the fuel injection was crap and stumbly etc etc...but crack it wide open and you'd have a smile on your face...for about 2 secs then you hit the speed limits lol
"C'est le métier qui rentre" comme on dit chez nous.
I agree with you... I had a 749...😎👍
I dont know , for me one of the best bike's i ever drove ..i made some time's 1300 km a day in combination of high way and B roads .for me heaven to drive it and also the emotional part just dream for every twin lover !!!
I just want one to stay in my living room
It's a medieval torture machine.
Soul Machines and one of the finest
There’s only one thing i really hate about ducati 916, its cheap sounding v-twin engine. It really is gorgeous but i just hope it already had a v-four engine back then coz the v-twin sound awful and the vibration is terrible at high rev coz the twin cyclinders are overworked.
Who'd have thought a race replica would be hard to live with on the road😂 if you use it as it was designed I.e twisties and moving round the bike it's a dream 😊 ride it in town or long straight roads it's gonna hurt you all over😂
Carl fogarty never had a problem with it ..
Ride with tarmac road cycle pants with padding under the suit. Then you save the ass from pain
I have noticed similar problems while riding my cbr, these are racing bikes and not necessarily good for everyday riding
Ducati... beautiful pieces of artwork, but would be terrible for my 4+ hour rides into the mountains. Best to admire them on the showroom floor, and leave them to the younger guys that can put up with the extreme riding positions.
And that’s why a Monster is much easier to live with. Having said that the 916 is awesome looking bike.
My 1198sp is no different as far as ergonomics, it’s not meant to ride to Starbucks my friend, I would happily take that off your hands. Perhaps a nice Honda magna.
Don’t like it don’t buy it. Simple.
Well he is telling the truth but still i want one or a 748 even if after 50klm ride i return home exhausted and broken 😃
Thank you for this
So it really is a Italian beauty... 😂😂
And why do you have two in your garage Sr.? Totally disagree with you they’re great bike in general.
I got a 999 and an 848. I think I'm ready to take the fiery plunge 😂
Don’t go slow Don’t go straight
Honest review!
This guy must have been expecting to be riding around on a recliner. Heat? But pain? Wrist pain? Give me a fking brake.
Moral of the story is, use it as intended, on a track. Where it belongs and makes sense.
Bingo