1098 Vs 1198

If I remember correctly, your choice of 1098 was base, S and R, no SP. IMO, the 1198, being the end of the line prior to the launch of the 1199, it was the most sorted. Having owned a 1098R, I would not choose it as a daily ride, brutal power delivery and mental performance requiring discipline or you lose your licence. Never did get to ride the 1198 but again the SP is likely to be an animal for a daily ride. Maybe set your sights on an 1198S, probably more available than the SP. Andy

 

1198 but any derivation would do*, unless you are set on the SP.

*if daily rider then i would pick the base model myself.

 

I had the 1098 Tricolore
Only rode it a few times as I had another bike for regular use.
It was a bit old school. Lacking abs, traction control etc. and far from refined. Locked the front brake once, only briefly, but just grabbed a bit too much and got a reminder.
Bags full of character and power, and sound, but certainly not something I would consider for a commute.

 

+1 to all the above.

 

Given the options of 1098 vs 1198, rather than, say, 1198 vs ‘some cute little Honda’ I think it’s fair to say the OP has a good grasp of what’s what.

Get the best 1198 you can and commute the balls off it.

You absolute legend.

 

Having had 10 glorious years with my 1198s I would say that neither (1098 or 1198) is a sensible ‘daily commuter’.

 

1198 base model, I loved mine

 

Had a 1098S, 999S before that. Monster torque, not build for riding around towns and cities. Would have another 1098/1198 tomorrow.

 

1198S, sold mine, regretted it every day..

 

Agree with all of the above , 1198S stomp monster!...i had one and wish i had kept it.

 

I’d say go for the best one you can find, but as to suitability for a commute. That would be dependant on what the commute is. If it was 20 miles across London then it’d not be best suited but if it was a 20 mile run on roads out of the capital then why not?

 

1198 --> Aka Thor or the HAMMER. Bring the Torque !!

You'll need to up the rear Sprocket at least 2 teeth and 1 down on the front to get it vaguely comfortable for any-kind of traffic... But I applaud your choice and bravery... Love mine... it's just awesome.