Looking to purchase - 1098SP or 1198SP - any thoughts on which one would be good ? Daily rider for 6 months of the year - UK based, 20 mile commute
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.
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’.
Had a 1098S, 999S before that. Monster torque, not build for riding around towns and cities. Would have another 1098/1198 tomorrow.
