Discussion
Anyone here know much about them?
I've had my VFR800 for nearly 5 years now, and noticed that I do less and less mileage on 2 wheels every year.
Had a good 160 mile run today, but can't help but think the bike has a lot to do with my lack of enthusiasm - when I had a TRX850 I used to do loads of miles just for the hell of it.
Anyway- I want something with bags of character, comfortable 2-up, but most of all, something that'll make me want to ride again.
I'm not a quick rider - didn't go above 80mph all morning today.
What I like about the VFR is that it has absolutely zero servicing requirements other than oil / filters and brakes / tyres.
I know a Duke will need more attention - mainly cambelts every 2 years - but is the ST2 as robust and easy to work on as the 750/900 SuperSports? - given that the ST2 appears to be a water-cooled derivative of the old air-cooled 2 valve lumps.
I've had my VFR800 for nearly 5 years now, and noticed that I do less and less mileage on 2 wheels every year.
Had a good 160 mile run today, but can't help but think the bike has a lot to do with my lack of enthusiasm - when I had a TRX850 I used to do loads of miles just for the hell of it.
Anyway- I want something with bags of character, comfortable 2-up, but most of all, something that'll make me want to ride again.
I'm not a quick rider - didn't go above 80mph all morning today.
What I like about the VFR is that it has absolutely zero servicing requirements other than oil / filters and brakes / tyres.
I know a Duke will need more attention - mainly cambelts every 2 years - but is the ST2 as robust and easy to work on as the 750/900 SuperSports? - given that the ST2 appears to be a water-cooled derivative of the old air-cooled 2 valve lumps.
I've had mine about a week and loved the first 500 miles. Kinda liking it less after needing a lift home with the RAC as it dies if you take it above 5-6k rpm. I have a carrier bag of spares that will no doubt provide a miraculous recovery for it! 
Crap running aside, while it was going I was really enjoying it compared to my Monster for long runs (100 miles +) for comfort (better seat and fairing obviously and better position for me) and it also handles far better than my monster imho. I've had a quick ride of a VFR 750 and it's not dissimilar from my hazy memory regarding position, general performance etc. The ST2 with some carbon cans like mine has does of course have more of a rumble than the very civilised Honda. I was getting about 45mpg from 80% Motorway @ 80 and 20% back roads.
Hope that helps....
Crap running aside, while it was going I was really enjoying it compared to my Monster for long runs (100 miles +) for comfort (better seat and fairing obviously and better position for me) and it also handles far better than my monster imho. I've had a quick ride of a VFR 750 and it's not dissimilar from my hazy memory regarding position, general performance etc. The ST2 with some carbon cans like mine has does of course have more of a rumble than the very civilised Honda. I was getting about 45mpg from 80% Motorway @ 80 and 20% back roads.
Hope that helps....
Check my profile. I wouldn't get another.
At least there are sufficient 748s, 916s etc to get spares off ebay. ST2s were rare so expect to have to pay main dealer prices.
ETA - If you want something characterful and sports-tourerish then try an Aprilia Futura or a Falco.
At least there are sufficient 748s, 916s etc to get spares off ebay. ST2s were rare so expect to have to pay main dealer prices.
ETA - If you want something characterful and sports-tourerish then try an Aprilia Futura or a Falco.
Edited by rsv gone! on Monday 9th July 09:21
twinspark said:
Anyone here know much about them?
I've had my VFR800 for nearly 5 years now, and noticed that I do less and less mileage on 2 wheels every year.
Had a good 160 mile run today, but can't help but think the bike has a lot to do with my lack of enthusiasm - when I had a TRX850 I used to do loads of miles just for the hell of it.
Anyway- I want something with bags of character, comfortable 2-up, but most of all, something that'll make me want to ride again.
I'm not a quick rider - didn't go above 80mph all morning today.
What I like about the VFR is that it has absolutely zero servicing requirements other than oil / filters and brakes / tyres.
I know a Duke will need more attention - mainly cambelts every 2 years - but is the ST2 as robust and easy to work on as the 750/900 SuperSports? - given that the ST2 appears to be a water-cooled derivative of the old air-cooled 2 valve lumps.
I had a Monster, so don't know an awfull lot about the ST2's, but there shouldn't be that much difference between them and an older air-cooled SS.I've had my VFR800 for nearly 5 years now, and noticed that I do less and less mileage on 2 wheels every year.
Had a good 160 mile run today, but can't help but think the bike has a lot to do with my lack of enthusiasm - when I had a TRX850 I used to do loads of miles just for the hell of it.
Anyway- I want something with bags of character, comfortable 2-up, but most of all, something that'll make me want to ride again.
I'm not a quick rider - didn't go above 80mph all morning today.
What I like about the VFR is that it has absolutely zero servicing requirements other than oil / filters and brakes / tyres.
I know a Duke will need more attention - mainly cambelts every 2 years - but is the ST2 as robust and easy to work on as the 750/900 SuperSports? - given that the ST2 appears to be a water-cooled derivative of the old air-cooled 2 valve lumps.
However, finding a good one might be another matter. Too many used Duc's are nightmares. Find one that's got a stamped book, a file of recipts back to 0 miles, looks spotless etc and it's worth the risk.
But hey, if you want 2-up comfort, arn't a fast rider, and want bags of character, with easy maintainence......have a go on a Harley
I did...got converted and haven't stopped grinning since...
Proof you don't need to ride everywhere at wrap factor 10 to enjoy riding a bike.
rsv gone! said:
Check my profile. I wouldn't get another.
At least there are sufficient 748s, 916s etc to get spares off ebay. ST2s were rare so expect to have to pay main dealer prices.
ETA - If you want something characterful and sports-tourerish then try an Aprilia Futura or a Falco.
Hmmmm - so far I've had 'they're OK - the engine is basically the old 900SS lump with a water-jacket, but not quite as robust as the 750SS lump.' (I've asked a Ducati fan elsewhere, too....) and 'no, they're quite rare so you can only get parts from main dealers'.At least there are sufficient 748s, 916s etc to get spares off ebay. ST2s were rare so expect to have to pay main dealer prices.
ETA - If you want something characterful and sports-tourerish then try an Aprilia Futura or a Falco.
I thought about the Falco, but have to say that if I were edging towards more sporty, I'd have a 750SS / 900SS as they're surprisingly comfortable.
aeropilot said:
But hey, if you want 2-up comfort, arn't a fast rider, and want bags of character, with easy maintainence......have a go on a Harley
I did...got converted and haven't stopped grinning since...
Proof you don't need to ride everywhere at wrap factor 10 to enjoy riding a bike.
In one word: no.I did...got converted and haven't stopped grinning since...
Proof you don't need to ride everywhere at wrap factor 10 to enjoy riding a bike.
I'm not a chromosexual, so I'll never have a Harley.
The Ducati ST range appear to be in a class of their own - comfortable riding position (very strong 'touring' bias) but still very sporty (unlike the Pan Euro, Triumph Trophy and BMWs).
Maybe I should stick with the VFR.
twinspark said:
aeropilot said:
But hey, if you want 2-up comfort, arn't a fast rider, and want bags of character, with easy maintainence......have a go on a Harley
I did...got converted and haven't stopped grinning since...
Proof you don't need to ride everywhere at wrap factor 10 to enjoy riding a bike.
In one word: no.I did...got converted and haven't stopped grinning since...
Proof you don't need to ride everywhere at wrap factor 10 to enjoy riding a bike.
I'm not a chromosexual, so I'll never have a Harley.
The Ducati ST range appear to be in a class of their own - comfortable riding position (very strong 'touring' bias) but still very sporty (unlike the Pan Euro, Triumph Trophy and BMWs).
Maybe I should stick with the VFR.
The worst thing to happen on mine was that the generator went pop. Ducati London wanted 500+vat just to supply the generator (which was unique to this bike).
Fortunately, I followed the various motorcycle newsgroups and on an american group (alt.rec.motorcycles or some such) I discovered the generator was covered by a recall. I had to tell Ducati London about this recall as they'd never heard of it.
Good points - they handle nicely and are very stable. At 215kg, they are relatively light for a sports tourer.
Bad points - Crappy electrics. The old 944cc air cooled motor is adequate. Countless niggly faults.
Whilst I had mine I test rode a Falco and it felt light years ahead. I very nearly bought one.
twinspark said:
....The Ducati ST range appear to be in a class of their own - comfortable riding position (very strong 'touring' bias) but still very sporty (unlike the Pan Euro, Triumph Trophy and BMWs).
You’ve obviously not tried the BMW R1100S then. It is as quick as a Ducati ST4s (which is much quicker than an ST2), more comfortable, just as ‘sporty’ and considerably more reliable/cheaper to run.I've tried an R1100S - they're definitely 'sport' and not 'touring' - bloody uncomfortable experience and I suspect I'd be pissing blood after a few hours in the saddle.
My BMW comparisons are with stuff like the K1100RS / LT - even the RS is a very tame touring bike, IMHO.
The closest bike I can think of to the Ducati ST range is the Yamaha FRJ1300 - but they're still a bit expensive for a weekend toy. Especially as the bikes are a 2nd choice toy to my 75.
My BMW comparisons are with stuff like the K1100RS / LT - even the RS is a very tame touring bike, IMHO.
The closest bike I can think of to the Ducati ST range is the Yamaha FRJ1300 - but they're still a bit expensive for a weekend toy. Especially as the bikes are a 2nd choice toy to my 75.
twinspark said:
I've tried an R1100S - they're definitely 'sport' and not 'touring' - bloody uncomfortable experience and I suspect I'd be pissing blood after a few hours in the saddle.
I’m surprised that you found the R1100S uncomfortable, but fair enough.twinspark said:
My BMW comparisons are with stuff like the K1100RS / LT - even the RS is a very tame touring bike, IMHO.
Yep, agree with that!twinspark said:
The closest bike I can think of to the Ducati ST range is the Yamaha FRJ1300 - but they're still a bit expensive for a weekend toy. Especially as the bikes are a 2nd choice toy to my 75.
How about a Triumph Sprint.I would also recommend the Honda FiresStorm if you’re looking for a fun, inexpensive, reliable weekend bike. I do lots of touring on mine which it is fine for (although the tank rang – or lack of - can be a pain in bum) and with decent suspension, it handles well enough to be a brisk road tool.
black-k1 said:
How about a Triumph Sprint.
I would also recommend the Honda FiresStorm if you’re looking for a fun, inexpensive, reliable weekend bike. I do lots of touring on mine which it is fine for (although the tank rang – or lack of - can be a pain in bum) and with decent suspension, it handles well enough to be a brisk road tool.
Firestorm is probably a good call - but the pillion seat isn't up to required standards. Tank range is a PITA, too.I would also recommend the Honda FiresStorm if you’re looking for a fun, inexpensive, reliable weekend bike. I do lots of touring on mine which it is fine for (although the tank rang – or lack of - can be a pain in bum) and with decent suspension, it handles well enough to be a brisk road tool.
Sprint - I suspect I'd find that too similar to the VFR.
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