Ducati 996 ( ist reg 1999 ) Base model

Indeed. The only bike of that era I've got on with as it did have improved ergos, was ironically, one shunned at the time as the looks changed, hence they're relatively affordable now. The Ducati 999. A very capable and nice bike to ride, despite the less appealing nose/headlamp design. I'd take one of those over a 996. I tried a 998 when last visiting the IoM for a run over the mountain. It nearly crippled me...terribly uncomfortable and tbh, much preferred my old Mille.
Swapped mine for, would you believe it, an R1200GS 🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️. It was the only sports bike that I ever fitted properly. I really wish I'd kept it
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Lovely, and very like my last RSVR. I see this is the standard model, but still a great machine. I liked the man-sized proportions and the fact you sat very much in, rather than on top of the bike. The ergos don't work for me now sadly, too cramped in the leg position which is quite high and rear-set. Still, had many years and many miles enjoyment from my Mille's and even toured on them a few times.
 
I did my 'most miles in a day' ride on that bike, clocking just over 1000 miles non stop coming back from watching MotoGP at Brno. I remember being flat out for about an hour then stop and refil the tank, repeat, repeat, repeat all the way back.
 


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