Hi All First time Ducati and indeed first time sportbike owner here. Have owned Japanese bikes exclusively until now (currently: Cb 600 Hornet for fun, XL650V Transalp for commuting + a Yamaha XT660 Tenere for the gravel roads back in my native land at the bottom end of Africa). Fully aware the 899 is a completely different kettle of fish and will very much be taking my time in getting to know her before any spirited riding! Fell for the 899 many years ago when I was at uni watching youtube videos and dreaming instead of learning anything of any use. Rekindled that desire last summer when I saw one moto camping in the Peak District - tail bag and all. Never thought I would be in a position to own one, but pleasantly surprised to have been able to prove that assumption wrong. I am based down south, but roads, traffic, thieves and insurance are against you down here so she's staying up in Derbyshire at a secure storage facility near Matlock. Family and friends/riding buddies up there plus some great roads, so made more sense than paying £2K per year for insurance and £150/month for storage closer to home. She's been meticulously cared for by her previous owners and has so few miles on her she's still on her original tyres. I am looking forward to getting her re-shod and looked over/fettled at Cornerspeed in April and then to making good use of her over the summer. Hoping to keep her pristine, but she won't be garage bound and I hope to see many happy miles on her. Looking forward to being part of the community! Any tips tricks hints generally and on the 899 in particular much appreciated - as great a resource as this forum is real wisdom comes with ownership not research... Happy riding all as we edge towards the light of warmer weather at the end of the tunnel
Heat transfer from exhaust loop through seat is a pain in the butt(sic). Put some heat reflective tape on underside of your seat. Rad guards a good idea if not fitted. Mirrors are crap. Enjoy.
Thanks all and sundry - also for the advice. Have read about the heat issue and already have some heat reflective tape on order! R/G Rad guards were one of the few mods on the bike when purchased, so hopefully should be OK on that front. Just thinking now about the first few miles - are there any signs to look out for that might indicate issues? E.g. have heard water pumps can be an issue?
