In general terms Richard is explaining that as we seek to get more we end up getting "net" less. Perfect analogy for the 1199 Vs 899 argument - despite the capacity and performance advantage of the 1199, the 899 is the better bike for the real world road riding biker. Discuss?
Whilst I have ridden a 1199 I haven't ridden an 899 and given that the 1199 is a lovely bike to ride, and it is almost impossible to get it to full power on the roads, an 899 may well be the better bike