Wanna buy » Ready for new bike, possibly a 1100S

[Glenn 141 2007 1100S (Black)]

I'm ready for a new bike and was looking at a 1100S. Never having a Ducati before I was hoping for some input as to this bikes maintenence schedule and cost of such as well as its reliability record. I know the seat is a source of complaint but I see Corbin makes a replacement as well as sargent so I'm not too worried about that. Did they fix the mirrors being too short? What about the kickstand? How is the wet clutch and does the pull seem lighter as well as better engagement? Is the wind screen any better with buffeting issues or does it need to be replaced with something taller?I'm 5-11 and 190 lbs and think I'd fit the bike well. I like the upright seating as I've raced dirtbikes (ktm's)for many years. Any and all help would be greatly appreciated as I am gathering info before my purchase. By the way I got a quote of $14700 out the door for a blk 1100S. Is this a good price?

[jeffpm 2005 1000S DS (Black)]

Glenn,

Only a few members here have the 1100S as it is a brand new model. Hopefully they'll post replies. The sidestand has been fixed since '05 and the mirrors as well. Although the mirrors don't give you a great field of view. FAR makes replacement mirrors than many have mounted on their multis. The maintenance schedule has been increased from 6,000 miles to 7,500 miles for valve clearance checks. I can't make a comment on the wet clutch as mine is a dry clutch. I'm the same height as you and don't have any issues with helmet buffeting with the stock windscreen. In fact, my head is fully in the wind stream. Options for taller or alternative wind screens are abundant, just search the forums.
Most Ducati dealerships are very good about having demo models for rides, I'd suggest calling around to see if a local dealer can do this for you. Since its a new model I don't think dealers are going to be doing much if any discounting. I'd expect to pay full MSRP, but try to get them to throw in the 600 mile service or riding gear and accessories.

Good luck with you potential purchase. They are great bikes!

[Steve B 2013 1200S (Corse)]

I've had my 1100S for about 3 weeks now and love it. Jeff pretty much covered everything other than the clutch. I had an '04 1000 for 3 years and 16k miles previously. There isn't any noticeable difference for me in clutch lever pull on the new wet clutch, but I haven't had an issue with the pull anyway. I think it engages a little more smoothly and progressively, but others haven't really noticed a difference. Functionally, there's not going to be a big difference. I think the clutch differences will boil down to durability and noise. I expect the wet clutch will last longer and stay quiet. It's all about preferences, a lot of people want an open clutch cover and like the noise. The wind screen issue is too subjective, just like the seat, to give a recommendation. We all have different priorities about what we like or don't. If you do a search you'll find a spectrum of opinions on seats and screens. You really have to try one yourself.