I'm a big fan of the SS line. Always have been. But, time has moved on and the current SS has become an underachiever.
With the 1098, Ducati has shown us that they are capable of building down to a price point. I'd really like to see them offer a fresh, no frills sportbike to compete with the sv650.
Build a cheap bike, but build it right. If they were to put all the jewelry on it, they'd miss the target.
They should start with the Monster frame because it's effective and paid for. After all, it was lifted directly from the 851/888. The 800 lump would be sufficient, but go ahead with water cooling. Keep it simple and cheap. Steel two-sided swing arm, three spoke Brembo wheels, Showa at both ends.
I love riding my 900 and racing my 750. I enjoy their straightforward simplicity. Hopefully, an updated SS line-up is in the works. The retro bikes just aren't gonna cut it.
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