Today Ducati announced the new 1198R Corse. Upgrades include the special Corse paint scheme, aluminum fuel tank, Termignoni exhaust and bike stand making the bike well worth what I'm assuming will be an astronomical price tag. Then again, what price can you place on beauty? MSRP hasn't been announced yet but if you have to ask, you can't afford one.
Also announced (to my extreme satisfaction) is the return of the Dark! The 848 Dark to be precise. MSRP is a quite reasonable (if you're not a Japanese bike guy) $12,995.
Which brings up a point I'd like to make. Ducs are really only expensive if you compare them just to their Japanese counterparts. Fast yes, but no Japanese bike even remotely approximates the feel and character of an Italian. To me the Japanese bikes are refined to a fault while Italians still have that indescribable I don't know what. And good luck getting a Harley that will perform like the 1198 for around $15K. Or even $30K. You can park it in the barn next to your unicorn. Not a fair comparison? How about an Aprilia? MV? Triumph? That new BMW has a shot but damn is it ugly. And how many people honestly possess the skills required to wring every last bit of performance out of a bike such as these? I'm not putting any of these bikes down. Every bike has it's own mojo that I'm more than happy to experience. But if you're going to own just one bike it really ought to be one that not only makes your adrenaline pump but one that speaks to your soul as well. For some it's a Ducati or BMW, while others it's a Yamaha or Honda. I've always had problems settling with just one and that's fine by me. I appreciate all for what they are and look forward to the next. I've learned not to poo poo until I've experienced it for myself. Even then I'm willing to admit I can see why others might like it even if it's not right for me. Whatever your poison is, I'd like to hear about it. Comment or email motoanimus@gmail.com and tell me about your ride of choice and why you love it. And anyone that says my Mom has a good ass kicking coming their way. Laters.
