History
My bike since new; I love it and no, you can't have it, you can't even touch it.
When Ducati brought out the next model, the 1198(S), I was mortified because essentially is was the same bike as mine, with an engine capacity increase. However, when I researched the performance parameters of these machines, I found that my bike, with the factory performance enhancements actually makes more rear wheel horsepower than a standard 1198. I then remained more comfortable in my psychological wellness, add to this the fact that my model, the 2007 Ducati 1098, was globally announced then as the WORLD'S BEST SUPERBIKE; I'm happy with that.
Modifications
Nothing! All worthwhile factory options are fitted, including the FULL 70mm Termignoni Exhaust system and tail pipes, the factory racing ECU and re-tuning to suit. This thing runs 154 rear wheel horsepower on the dyno and accelerates as fast as my Hayabusa up to around 200 KPH, beyond which NOTHING can touch the incredible HAYABUSA.
The only criticisms I have of the Ducati 1098S are as follows: 1) It is an uncompromising racing machine. 2) Because of this it is very much fun to ride very fast, and at high speed it feels absolutely superb. 3) it is uncomfortable for long distance riding, with hard suspension and fuel economy that is woeful when the throttle is operated with vigor, requiring a fuel stop plan for any trip. Other than that, YEEEEEHAAAA!!!! Just look at it, that thing is a work of art, it deserves a place in the lounge-room in a glass case. And finally, when one rides these things, with the 'competition use only' exhaust and the rattling open clutch, every time one stops at the lights near another motorcyclist or other motorist, without meaning to, one sort of feels arrogant as one becomes aware of the craning necks attempting to casually check out one's machine. The same goes for the Hayabusa of course, but that is because it is just such an intimidating machine to all and sundry. The bottom line: there can be no greater love than that which is applied to my motorbikes, well OK, my wife also, oh yeah, and my dog Harvey.