Test rode The Beast today. Big O came up and we slid over to the city for lunch and bike-ogling and slobbering. It's everything the mags say-monster motor, monster brakes, light weight, smooth throttle response. Definitely the smoothest big twin I've ever slapped a leg over. Here's my take:
Positives:
1. The motor. It's a torque monster, but not in the least bit abrupt. Purrs like a kitten until you twist it's tail and then roars like a lion. Very little vibration, Map was in Sport mode and traction control in 5, right in the middle of the range. A louder pipe would make it that much more fun.
2. The brakes. Brembo M50s. All the whoa to go with all the go. I came upon a tree-shrouded stop sign a bit hot and would have been in the middle of the intersection on anything else. Didn't even enter the crosswalk. ABS was on full pop and they asked me to leave it there, so I did.
3. Build quality. Exquisite welds and fine paint, although I spent more time riding it than I did looking close.
4. Did I mention the motor?
Negatives;
1. The price. A heart-stopping 18K out the door.
2. The styling. I guess Teutonic Origami would grow on me over time and it looks better in person than it does in pics. Mike commented on how narrow it is at the waist.
3. The seat. There is some room to move around, but when are bike makers going to start putting seat-makers out of business?
4. No wind protection. On a machine this fast and powerful, looking down and seeing nothing but front wheel is strange. I know, I know, it's a streetfighter thing you wouldn't understand....
The verdict: I love it, but not as an only bike. If I could afford to keep the BWII and add the 1290 Super R I buy it in a heart beat. But riding home I was reminded again what I like about the ZX-14. Traffic was my bitch! Smooth, supple and comfortable and while it's 80 lbs heavier than the KTM, that weight is only a disadvantage in certain circumstances like city squirting and really tight twisties.
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