test ride today

[ducatiparts.110mb]

Rode the new RT this morning. Seems like an all round step forward.

Engine was noticeably quicker than my old RT. Quickshifter didn't quite live up to expectations but maybe it takes a few miles to acclimatise. Only tried the hill start once and it worked well. Screen was much quieter than the 2010 model (for me at least).

Dick Lovett have had a cancellation (same spec as what I've ordered) so instead of waiting 4-6 weeks, mine will be ready on Friday of next week. Woohoo.

Big thumbs up for the new bike.

 

[Sam555]

+1 used to ride the previous versions of the RT 10+ years and have owned a GSA for 4 years now. Seriously interested in moving to the new RT after seeing it at the MCN show Excel and test rode last week. I loved it, for me it looks really good and my favourite colour has to be the matt grey. If you are riding the older version of the RT then its the engine that makes the biggest impact being far more powerful and responsive when riding. Difficult choice is whether to go for the SE or LE version. According to the dealer many are choosing the SE with dynamic pack and tyre pressure sensors rather than the full comfort pack but when paying £16,000+ whats a few extra pounds I guess!

The gear assist is interesting and hard to use at first. Its not a semi auto and as long as you realise its limitations can help but not an essential item for me. To change up without using the clutch you have to be under acceleration (harder the better) and to change down completely off the throttle so cannot be used to change gear at constant speed i.e. to change down ready to accelerate out of a restricted zone. Couple of niggles at this price; the front mudguard is far too short, the engine casing of the bike I rode was covered in dirt, needs a fender extender (should have been included). Also no Sat-Nav locking mechanism so when parking up always have to remove, will fit in fairing cubby hole storage box but I think this should have had a locking mechanism (the K1600's screen closes and does this I believe). Zumo 660 fits but have to use touch screen rather than handlebar controls to program unlike the BMW Nav V. Advertised as launch bike for the new Michelin PR4 tyre but quite a few I saw have Metzelers, probably early supply problem.

Will I get one? Probably yes once the market has settled down but its a lot of cash for 2 wheels, class leader? yes I think it is.