Ducati 1098 S Superbike

I absolutely love the Ducati 1098! I had a 996 before this, but this is a different beast altogether. I ride a Firestorm every day as a commuter bike (Pirelli SuperCorsa Pro's on the Duke not really suitable for winter riding through Dublin, never mind sticking a top box on it for the laptop!) but just pray for dry weekends so I can really give it legs. Was posting 2:06's during morning of second ever trip to Mondello - which I hear is pretty damn impressive, and I know I would have gone quicker had it not rained for the afternoon session. It inspires such passion and emotion, and got to remind myself, it is only a machine. But I love it, love it, love it, and will only get rid of it when the 1198s comes out next year.

Loved the Ducati from the moment I saw it. Just as people say fantasy better than reality. Broke down on way from dealership. Repaired. Blew several bulbs. Repaired. Broke down in rain. Repaired. Broke down on track day. Returned. Not happy.

I have used my Ducati 1098S on every type of road and in all weathers. I have traveled 200 to 300 miles at a time on numerous occasions and it is a joy to have. I also have a Honda Blackbird, perfect for long rides. But the Ducati is now my first choice, even for commutes from Glasgow to Dublin (six round trips in last 6 months). I find the comfort is fine - don't even feel the need to stretch legs after 100 miles plus - this amazed me. Reliability also surprised me, 100% so far. The best thing though is the grin factor - it's the best purchase I ever made, attracts so much attention everywhere I go and even helped me win business!