Lol! I rode one 2 weeks ago and fell in love with the low end torque and mid range power it Handles effortlessly and you can't beat the looks. It's not a screamer on the top end like the R6 but it still maintained the power. This is what I really want out of a bike.. I was considering a KTM RC8 but the seat on that bike sucks major ass. The sharp edge design continues into the seat and it digs into your inner thig, (No matter if your standing or sitting), I didn't get a chance to ride it just sat on it at Mountain Motorsports. Maybe if I rode it I could sacrifice the seat for the power and handling... Maybe!
I have not ridden an 08+ only an 05. not sure how I feel about the V-twins either since they are heat monsters from what I've heard, but when I rode the 899 it was a short 3-4mile ride and never got stuck at a red light. the 899 has a wet clutch in it which was a bit disappointing since a former co-worker had a monster I got to ride and I really liked that dry clutch chatter..
Kinda at a cross roads, but I change my mind all the time so who's to say what I'll be riding come next summer.
I rode a 1098 in the hot florida sun last year. Didnt get to stretch out or hang any turns, just bar hopped. I think my thighs and nuts are still medium well.
I had a ktm pull in beside me at hibachi the other day. First time ive ever seen one, sharp lookin bike. I like anything thats orange.
On the highway ridin with -1/+2, it aint too bad. I think im usually cruisin at 8kish. Im thinkin about takin the back sprocket off but i fear the results.
If you get sa ducati, keep an ice pack and a stick of ball deodorant in your backpack, but me personally, id have to pull a valentino rossi and throw that thing the dueces.