Ducati had a demo day this weekend across the state line. Despite the Sunday and the excessive heat and humidity, a bunch of us motored down early to throw our legs around the Ducatis.
One of the better demos. Rather hands-off demo; control rider was a racer, the route selected was variable and wasn't bad until around noontime when all the southern churchgoers flooded the main streets......so we went thru some neighbourhoods instead
Note/Attenzione ! Speeds are in miles per hour (mph)
https://youtu.be/aRPmsfmHJVYI had always had a mind sent on the 959 Panigale as a potential next bike, and the demo confirmed it. Power was surprisingly tractable, the handling characteristics were secure and stable, and the engine note (with quickshifter !) will ring in my head the next few days. The riding position was spot-on for me (173cm, 62kg), and I could likely ride this for an hour non-stop. I adore this bike, in spite of its italian qualities. Glad I was wearing leather pants, because when the bike pumps out 107°C to your thighs at a stoplight when it's 38° outside.....yeah. Chaud !
I tried also the Supersport, which has a more updated electronics package. For 80% of riders, this is a better choice than the 959. The engine from the Hypermotard is a bit agricultural (last clip in vidéo), but the handling is very sporty and will hold up perfectly on the track as on the street. The seat is confortable, more plush, and the riding position more agreeable for those who aren't racer-sized (like me): sporty but not severe.
I rode also the Hypermotard for fun, but that was a mistake the moment I got on the bike. Seat height was so high, I could get only one toe on the ground. I'm not used to such a forward, upright position. The throttle was touchy, and clutch travel long. No thanks, keep me on a sport bike.
I can see that 959 being quite the good partenaire on the circuit and backroads. I love my R3, and have gotten quite good at tossing that thing around, but a man can always plan ahead .......
