Chris is so damn likeable. Fantastic review as usual. My back still has mileage on it so sport tourers dont appeal to me, but they nailed the styling on these 950
Great review of a bike high on my “want” list! I know I’m in the minority, but I actually wish Ducati had gone more in the direction of their old STs with the new 950. I know, I know... that type of bike is decidedly out of style, but I’m still a sucker for a great sporty bike that you can actually daily ride. Ducati will try to convince you that they made the Multistrada for geezers like me - but these road biased enduro bikes are just plain ugly to me.
Old STs were some of the most underestimated bikes ever made. Great bike to ride (I 've test-riden them, from ST2 to ST4s), felt right "at home" when you sit on them, and you even totally forget about their (too) conservative looks (which played a major part in their commercial failure).
I'm 66 also and once owned a 1986 Honda VFR750F (and it was also white). So, this bike looks very attractive for me. I currently have a 2021 Yamaha MT09 which I find to also be great for our age group. It's very comfortable, light, smooth and quite sporty.
I cannot understand why this category of bike is not more popular. Especially seeing as some of the bikes regarded as real classics like the VFR or Ducatis old STs were sport-tourers, but few buy such a bike from new anymore. I ride a Multistrada 950 because I do the occasional long day (800km+) and I'm rather tall (190cm) - but were it not for that I could well see myself riding the SuperSport instead. BTW, about the name. If you look at the context of the ealier SuperSport models it is perfectly in line with those, being a sporty bike focused on road riding. Not Ducati's fault that along the way, somebody decided that 600cc japanese screamers should be called "supersports" 😂
I totally agree with your point about the lack popularity of this category of bike. I think it really comes down to fashion trends, and that this bike is neither fish nor fowl. Race-reps were the fashion for many years, now it's ADV bikes. I think too many follow the trends when making their purchase decision. This is the bike a lot of riders really need. I have the previous two versions of SS, and as road bikes they are both superior to the at that time current superbike, the 916 and the 999. I can't imagine wanting a Panigale as a road bike.
Hmm I'm not sure if I get your point - we the Ninjas 650 and 1000, the ZX-14R, the Hayabusa (which is even getting a new gen), GSX-S 1000F, just naming a few.. we have plenty of sport touring options in the market right now.
@@rfabri In my book the ZX-14R and the Hayabusa are a totally different breed of bike than ye olde VFR et al: to me they are Autobahn rocketships more than sports tourers. Moreover, the Ninja 650 is a nice and docile commuter... that offers preciously little in the sporting department. The Ninja 1000SX is pretty much the only old-school sports tourer left on the market, if you ask me... which makes me sad!
@@eskemeldgaardkrogh4145 is the supersport friendly to borderline beginners like a ninja 650? I have a little bit of experience from a few years ago and also a pure street guy, I’m the like the literal embodiment of all show, no go😂
@@Westside_Hippie I see absolutely no reason why a moderately experienced rider shouldn’t have loads of controlled fun on a SuperSport. If in doubt, simply stick it in Urban mode and poodle about like you would on your Ninja 650. With that said, I’ve always found four cylinder engines to be easier to manage for beginners than twins and singles. Four cylinders tend to offer a linear (and predictable) torque curve, wheras twins and singles come on a bit quicker and more abrubtly... LOADS of fun, but rarely easier to handle than a 4-cylinder.
I know this shouldn't be a surprise because he's been doing this for a long time, but bloody hell Chris is one of THE best motojourno/racer/testers out there at the moment. So watchable, with a genuinely funny and engaging way of presenting. He plays on pretending to be a "grown up road tester" but this is pure tongue in cheek as he is clearly one of the most experienced and a massive number of the so called RUclips motovloggers could learn a lot from someone who really knows his stuff. Top work. More of the same please 👊😎
Can you ride an Aprilia RS660 and tell me how you think it compares to this as an every day road bike. Already test rode the Honda CBR650r and thought it was a very good bike with absolutely no personality. I am trying to decide between the three. Current bike is a Triumph 675r and it hurts too much to use it everyday.
Thank you Chris! I always love your impressions on each and every bike you review. Second to none! Keep up the great work you do with your humble, honest reviews! 👍😎🇦🇺
You didn’t tour on it...When I had one (939) it was brilliant for touring. Southern Italy was my furthest. Had 2 Multis and would take the SS every time - comfiest seat ever. Agree with everything else 👍
Good review/reviewer. I'm a dad and I own a 939 Supersport. Not much reason to upgrade which is a shame, especially as the gripes pointed out were true of the original bike. One gripe missing is the considerable heat under the rider. Great in March, not so great in August. I'd have expected Ducati to address this issue if they want owners to upgrade.
Great review man! You judge a road-sports bike as such. I am tired that so many people talk as if they are MotoGP riders. I only wish you had something to comment on how it rides with a passenger and his/her comfort. A point negleted by most reviewers, and it shouldn't be, especially at such bikes.
Keep in mind that the Supersport 950 (apart from the extra 5 HP) has MUCH more torque, MUCH lower in the rev band than your VFR (93 Nm at 6.500 rpm vs. 75 Nm at 8.500 rpm)... Moreover, the SS950 is around 40 kg (85 lbs) lighter than the VFR. In short: a Supersport 950 will feel MUCH faster than your VFR... and I LOVE the VFR!
@@eskemeldgaardkrogh4145 I agree that on paper that appears to be the case. but I have a NC30 & VFR750 and the way they build power on the road is sublime. The numbers aren't the whole story. I had a 916 years ago great but overrated an R6 was much better. But I get your point.
I think these guys do the best real world reviews. I know this vid is 3 years old but I think he is spot on. I was in the market for a sports bike and tried them all and I can without a doubt say that all of the race bikes, Panigale V2 or V4, S1000RR, RSV4, R1 etc. absolutely suck to ride on the street. In fact, just 2 days ago I was getting repair done and they just offered for me to take a Panigale V2 out. It was awful, hot as hell, I could not lift my head up high enough to see, it has absolutely nothing under the hood below 8k and when the power kicks in it is so non linear and violent but just feels bad. Now the 950S is a much different story, it definitely reminds me of 80's-90's sport bikes. Yes, I do own a 950S but that was after being disappointed by all of the race bikes. I can 100% tell you that on the road the 950S feels faster than any of these race bikes, more torque, comfortable and so planted. I like that 937 engine so much that I have the Hyper SP, Desert X and the 950S. Anyone who buys based off of horse power figures or track times is making a big mistake. I suggest if you are not a track only or a track guy 5 times a year a race bike is not worth the expense or the suffering. If you ride the 950S on road you will absolutely not be disappointed by the power, it honesty feels like a 140hp bike or more. That being said, I also own a Pikes Peak, Super Duke Evo and a gen 2 Vmax so I can truly speak about the power differences......you will not feel under powered on the 950s.
Great vid & review. Like this bike a lot. Out of interest did you play with the suspension at the track & manage to dial it in a bit better? At face value it looks like a very similar proposition to the RS660, which it is to some extent, but I'm not sure they're as close as they first appear. Having ridden neither lol, the RS660 appears a bit sharper & more sporty potentially.
We didn’t mess around with the suspension - you could calm it down a bit with the damping adjustment, but I think it would need stiffer springs to really make a big difference on track, which isn’t really the point of this bike.
The one thing Ducati could have done better was to make the exhaust fall more in line with the look and ride of the bike. The exhaust sounds like some low horsepower Cruiser or 4-stroke dirt bike engine.
Your reviews are always SPOT-on mate! The sort of info from a real-world day to day biker's perspective, and the sort of feedback we all really want to know about... Served with well thought of examples and notions that are almost able to transport us in to the ride with you... Well done brother, i must say, VERY well done. Thks for caring and for sharing. Cheers and best regards from PORTUGAL
Quoting it "Panigale for your dad" was the best sum-up anyone has ever come up with. That was savage. Loved the video (as always). Great Work Chris. ✌️
Own the previous 937 model, and love it great comfortable road bike and sufficient 113bhp mine has a mapped Termi that soynds awesome and longest I've owned a bike, dad's Panigale lol.
is it friendly to borderline beginners like a ninja 650? I have a little bit of experience from a few years ago and also a pure street guy, I’m the like the literal embodiment of all show, no go😂
@@Westside_Hippie I describe myself as an intermediate level rider, also all show and no go lol, she is fairly easy to handle so as a returning rider you should be fine, for a total novice I would say go to something with less bhp.
@@debenhamdave4314 borderline intermediate myself too but possibly rusty. My mindset/personality helps too. Honestly this bike checks all the boxes for me outside of Ducati prices 😂😂
@@Westside_Hippie yes fair enough, 2nd hand prices begin at £7500 for a stock 2017 model, but depreciation is very low. Enjoy what ever bike you choose but think you have the taste for a lovely red Ducati lol,
A couple of years ago at the NEC, I sat on nearly every bike there and this surprised me with how comfy it was. I'm a fan of retros and nakeds and I found it more comfortable than most of them! Really good ergonomics. If I ever wanted a sportsbike, this would be it!
Excellent review. I bought mine first time it came out 4 years ago and I have been enjoying it a lot since. I took it to track a dozen times, then decided she is too pretty and not really for track (just like he said. My biggest issue was the low pegs) and got myself a dedicated track bike. On the road I can't get enough of riding it though. Just so sweet. . Some quirks he didn't mention include: quick shifter works fine but not always. You have to be in the right rev otherwise it could get nasty on you. I rode BMW's with quick shifters and the quality difference is clear. Also, this one is really unhappy when it first wakes up. Until the engine warms up, throttle can be quite jerky and the bike can stall. Can't agree more with the thumb squeeze. It is super annoying. That kind of design fault should not exist, same goes for mirrors. But, overall, I love the thing. He captured the essence of it so well. It is a marvelous bike and the engine is absolutely addictive.
A comfy sport bike? What an innovative idea! Given that most riders will never go near a track (and hence lack the corresponding skills) but still like to feel as if they're Jorge Lorenzo, this machine is pretty much perfect. Excellent marketing by Ducati.
love the look but i wonder if a ninja1000sx , heavier and more powerful, would be better for me ouch, ... my dad. considering he already has a z900rs and a speedtwin 1200 to play around with, and a comfy v85tt to munch miles.
The Ninja .. is the bike that this one wants to be when it grows up !!😁😁😁 Please get one .. fantastic bike ..!!. it ticks more boxes in the 8/9/10 out of 10 category than any other bike on the road ..👌👌👌😁😁
you mentioned that the suspension was soft; that needs a little more detail. I have a 2007 duc ST3s - That has a soft suspension. If you have ridden that bike, could you compare? Am guessing that street sport cornering would be improved a bit with the SS - would that be right? Also, I am 6'2" with long legs. Is that going to be a problem on longer drives? Ducati offers a "touring" pkg so they do believe the comfort could extend to do a bit of touring. You didn't say much about touring. Touring bikes do not have to be big clunky goldwings or hyped up adventure bikes. Do you think this SS has the power and nimblesness to navigate mountain switchbacks? From pictures I have seen the panniers look very trim. Can a tail bag even fit on the back of this bike? I do 95% of my riding looking for corners and practicing sport riding techniques. But I have mountains close by and enjoy week long tours with my ST3s. Would this bike be at home in the steep switchbacks? I do not like the fact that the mirrors vibrate - and looking over my shoulder all the time is unacceptable and not safe. Is Ducati working on a fix or can the mirrors be changed out? thank you
Only real critique I have is that I wish it had a bit more power - another ten lb/ft and 10bhp or so, and slightly less weight. Definitely more comfortable than a Panigale V2, but it's practically the same price... I have to wonder why. I still want one (and am most likely going to buy one), but I'll have to see about adding a tad more power and lightening it a little bit... the Panigale is hot as hell, and I rather do enjoy commuting on a motorcycle (and sitting at a stop with the Panigale is just ludicrously warm).
Great review, Chris. Odd question. 2021 950 Supersport S vs 2020 Triumph 765 Street Triple RS handling/engine for weekend back road rides and the occasional short tour?
i really like your reviews man, they're on point! not too much blahblah, just all the infos i want to get a little insight of a bike i might consider testing myself. keep up the awesome work!
Thanks for a great review; relevant and measured, as ever. As I’m getting close to grumpy old git category, I’d take the Dukes lightness, character (sound, handling, name etc) and road excellence - just - over a new VFR 800. But hold on, what about consideration for Aprilia’s new RS660, Kwaker 1000SX or even a dirt cheap Suzy GSX -S750? Choices....
Love british who ride bikes for some odd reason lol ( I’m Swedish ). Maybe it’s your accent making the hobby feel more sophisticated rather than a muurican ”I’m so tough!!”-accent. Is it worth going to the UK for a biketrip?
Great review. Would love to hear a comparison of the SS and the StreetFighter for those of us who don't want their butts above their heads but still want some performance.
I own a Panigale V2 as a dedicated track bike. I do 20 track days a year on it. Just bought a new Supersport S for the street. Its wonderfully set up for the street. I owned ADV style bikes like Multi's etc, but i just love being connected to the tank and the machine, vs being a sail in the wind.... Oh and i am a 52 year old "Dad"
@@hatamoto68 i have two v2’s, one is track only and not street legal, the other is a piece of art in my garage (Bayliss v2) that dones get out enough. Mainly because for me, they are great for 20 mins track sessions with breaks in between, but torture on the street. Note that i am an one man of 51. The Supersport i would totally get over the v2 for daily riding and light touring. It’s the goldilocks bike.
Have ridden the first incarnation on the road and on a sunny twisty B road I really enjoyed it. As you say nice a comfortable bike with a great twin sound track. I found the quick shifter nice too😎
Woow WHAT HAPPENED TO THE RED VERSION. I ride the "REAL DEAL V TWIN" A RED VTR1000F FIRESTORM" and as it cost me £10k less, AND IT IS FANTASTIC. I think biking has gone BACKWARD BUT PRICES HAVE GONE FORWARDS LOL The Ducati has RETRO TEC BUT FUTARISTIC PRICES and any "FOOL CAN BE EASILY PARTED FROM HIS MONEY" I rest my case! SAD :)
Chris, you are so much in details of its behaviour of being ridden properly, that only riders who could ride in the same manner will understand. But they would not look to this model for known reasons. These who would consider it as a potential purchase - would not understand what you was saying. Pure paradox
I just wish Ducati made an additional version with a 650-750cc engine and everything else identical to make it easier for beginners. A 950 may be a lil too dicey for me even I’m a pure city commuter side.
Reminds me of the old Yamaha YZF600 ... looks like a "600" Sportsbike of its time and it was good and comfortable enough to spend 6000 km on a three week roadtrip Germany -> Scotland -> around Ireland -> South UK and back to GER.
Thx Chris, I saw your MT-09-SP review and a number of others and eventually went out and bought one. The 2023 . Lotta fun, Love it. I ride the twisties on the weekends and do 3 to 4 track days a year on my MT-09-SP. I do very little else on it. Rarely ever longer than two hours in the saddle at a time due to other hobbies and time constraints. Based on the track day feel, I'm starting to consider that I need lower bars ( looking at the Woodcraft ) and higher further back rear sets so that I'm not dragging the pegs on the track days. Also, I'm just starting to run out of horsepower and considering an ECU flash tune. I don't quite think I want to be waded up on a full sports bike due to wrist comfort. And also because I occasionally take a pillion/guest on a ride. So given that, which would you recommend,.... sticking with the MT-09-SP and making the $1,500 in mods or trying the Super Sport 950 S ,perhaps a V2 Street Figher??...or is there something else you like for my particular riding needs and within this sub $20K price range?
If the review is correct (and I have no reason to not think it) I would say that Ducati hit the target with this bike, despite this I don't think it will have great commercial success (as already happened with the Ducati SS previous versions) and the reason is simple; people want black or white... grey? It's ok but it doesn't create passion and a bike is above all this; emotion, regardless of where come from (a old-classic, sbk, tourer, naked etc). Anyway who knows, maybe I'm wrong, maybe the market changed.
Every motorcycle review these days essentially panders the globalist message: Before we all put our bikes away, stop having fun, give up freedom, and live in prison until we die a miserable death, let's all have fun celebrating these wonderful bikes.
I feel like these reviews come always come from the perspective of a almost professional rider, 90% of the people riding these things are not pushing the limits of these things like they do, so whatever they say needs to take a step back for the rest of us
Still dont' habit the English way of road riding, when the white Range Rover came in the corner I feel like it is coming in front of you then realize you go on a left lane XD
I was looking to buy one and found a low mileage second hand example at my local dealer - for a bike that was only a couple of years old it looked pretty shabby. Put me off.
This seems like my kind of bike.
"Panigale for your dad."
Hol' up.
Are ya winning, son?
Hahahaha! Same
He’s fantastic. What a funny guy. He gets you interested and eager to listen to what he’s saying. Great charisma.
This guy is good at what he does! Someone give this man a raise!
Your reviews are simply excellent.
Agreed
Chris is so damn likeable. Fantastic review as usual. My back still has mileage on it so sport tourers dont appeal to me, but they nailed the styling on these 950
"Pointless and childish." Let's face it, that IS the point! 🥳
Great review of a bike high on my “want” list! I know I’m in the minority, but I actually wish Ducati had gone more in the direction of their old STs with the new 950. I know, I know... that type of bike is decidedly out of style, but I’m still a sucker for a great sporty bike that you can actually daily ride.
Ducati will try to convince you that they made the Multistrada for geezers like me - but these road biased enduro bikes are just plain ugly to me.
Eske - I'm with you 100%.
Old STs were some of the most underestimated bikes ever made. Great bike to ride (I 've test-riden them, from ST2 to ST4s), felt right "at home" when you sit on them, and you even totally forget about their (too) conservative looks (which played a major part in their commercial failure).
Totally agree. Cannot stand the looks of the Multi.
you are a cool man
I see Chris, I first like and then start watching :). What an amazing guy.
Truly enjoy the insights in your reviews. You painted an excellent picture of what this bike is.
I’m glad they still make bikes like this. Think vfr, triumph sprint st....comfortable, good looking bikes with characterful engines.
The answer to Honda not making a SuperHawk any more...still a shame! But good on Ducati!
Being 66 ,it's a perfect sport bike for someone in my age group. I love my Red 950 S
I'm 66 also and once owned a 1986 Honda VFR750F (and it was also white). So, this bike looks very attractive for me. I currently have a 2021 Yamaha MT09 which I find to also be great for our age group. It's very comfortable, light, smooth and quite sporty.
54 yr old dad, and I love my 950S in gorgeous HOT red!
I cannot understand why this category of bike is not more popular. Especially seeing as some of the bikes regarded as real classics like the VFR or Ducatis old STs were sport-tourers, but few buy such a bike from new anymore. I ride a Multistrada 950 because I do the occasional long day (800km+) and I'm rather tall (190cm) - but were it not for that I could well see myself riding the SuperSport instead.
BTW, about the name. If you look at the context of the ealier SuperSport models it is perfectly in line with those, being a sporty bike focused on road riding. Not Ducati's fault that along the way, somebody decided that 600cc japanese screamers should be called "supersports" 😂
I totally agree with your point about the lack popularity of this category of bike. I think it really comes down to fashion trends, and that this bike is neither fish nor fowl. Race-reps were the fashion for many years, now it's ADV bikes. I think too many follow the trends when making their purchase decision. This is the bike a lot of riders really need. I have the previous two versions of SS, and as road bikes they are both superior to the at that time current superbike, the 916 and the 999. I can't imagine wanting a Panigale as a road bike.
Hmm I'm not sure if I get your point - we the Ninjas 650 and 1000, the ZX-14R, the Hayabusa (which is even getting a new gen), GSX-S 1000F, just naming a few.. we have plenty of sport touring options in the market right now.
@@rfabri In my book the ZX-14R and the Hayabusa are a totally different breed of bike than ye olde VFR et al: to me they are Autobahn rocketships more than sports tourers. Moreover, the Ninja 650 is a nice and docile commuter... that offers preciously little in the sporting department. The Ninja 1000SX is pretty much the only old-school sports tourer left on the market, if you ask me... which makes me sad!
@@eskemeldgaardkrogh4145 is the supersport friendly to borderline beginners like a ninja 650? I have a little bit of experience from a few years ago and also a pure street guy, I’m the like the literal embodiment of all show, no go😂
@@Westside_Hippie I see absolutely no reason why a moderately experienced rider shouldn’t have loads of controlled fun on a SuperSport. If in doubt, simply stick it in Urban mode and poodle about like you would on your Ninja 650.
With that said, I’ve always found four cylinder engines to be easier to manage for beginners than twins and singles. Four cylinders tend to offer a linear (and predictable) torque curve, wheras twins and singles come on a bit quicker and more abrubtly... LOADS of fun, but rarely easier to handle than a 4-cylinder.
I know this shouldn't be a surprise because he's been doing this for a long time, but bloody hell Chris is one of THE best motojourno/racer/testers out there at the moment. So watchable, with a genuinely funny and engaging way of presenting. He plays on pretending to be a "grown up road tester" but this is pure tongue in cheek as he is clearly one of the most experienced and a massive number of the so called RUclips motovloggers could learn a lot from someone who really knows his stuff. Top work. More of the same please 👊😎
Can you ride an Aprilia RS660 and tell me how you think it compares to this as an every day road bike. Already test rode the Honda CBR650r and thought it was a very good bike with absolutely no personality. I am trying to decide between the three. Current bike is a Triumph 675r and it hurts too much to use it everyday.
Have you watched Chris' review of the Trident?
@@CED99 no, not yet.
aprillia is way sharper with a more aggressive tune
@@IronGuardLegionnaire wayyyyy more unreliable
@@bustabunny1238 no one is arguing this. But I rather have a high maintenance supermodel
"Panigale for your dad" Brilliant!!!, best bike reviewer on youtube
Thank you Chris! I always love your impressions on each and every bike you review. Second to none! Keep up the great work you do with your humble, honest reviews! 👍😎🇦🇺
Excellent like to dislike ratio shows how good this video is, and how good Chris's delivery is.
"Is it bad? If you end up in a hedge yes"
‘Panigale for your Dad’......Yep, that’ll be for me 👨🏻🦳
Like that quote "while people are going past you just be safe in the knowledge they are less comfortable than you are."
You didn’t tour on it...When I had one (939) it was brilliant for touring. Southern Italy was my furthest. Had 2 Multis and would take the SS every time - comfiest seat ever. Agree with everything else 👍
Hi Chris ...could you please please do a comparison between this bike and Aprilia 660🙌🙌🙌
In my old fart opinion... the SuperSport S is the best looking motorcycle Ducati produces and its engine gives the bike a thumping soul ....
Thanks for a fantastic review! How does it compare to the Honda VFR800?
With out a question this bike is one of the most beautiful 😍 bikes ever made. Shame it doesn't have 10Hp more and cruise control.
I promise you it's got enough poke.
As an older citizen, I have 4cm bar risers on, and the Akropovich pea shooters. Great bike.
Such a good reviewer. Is watch Chris all day
Good review/reviewer. I'm a dad and I own a 939 Supersport. Not much reason to upgrade which is a shame, especially as the gripes pointed out were true of the original bike. One gripe missing is the considerable heat under the rider. Great in March, not so great in August. I'd have expected Ducati to address this issue if they want owners to upgrade.
Thanks for a good review. It helped decide which Ducati I will purchase.
Yess, a Panigale for the dad !! - While sunny drives R6 and ZX10R....Great review!!
Great review man! You judge a road-sports bike as such. I am tired that so many people talk as if they are MotoGP riders. I only wish you had something to comment on how it rides with a passenger and his/her comfort. A point negleted by most reviewers, and it shouldn't be, especially at such bikes.
I really like your enthusiasm when explaining mirrors vibations saying "bzzz... ". :)
I'm not actually interested in this bike, but anything Chris reviews, I watch.
I prefer the Kawasaki Z1000 SX or the Suzuki Gsxs 1000 in this kind of bikes.
I have a VFR so would consider this bike but I think it needs a bit more go. maybe the old 998/999 motor (maybe even a 749 model and a 650)
Keep in mind that the Supersport 950 (apart from the extra 5 HP) has MUCH more torque, MUCH lower in the rev band than your VFR (93 Nm at 6.500 rpm vs. 75 Nm at 8.500 rpm)... Moreover, the SS950 is around 40 kg (85 lbs) lighter than the VFR. In short: a Supersport 950 will feel MUCH faster than your VFR... and I LOVE the VFR!
@@eskemeldgaardkrogh4145 I agree that on paper that appears to be the case. but I have a NC30 & VFR750 and the way they build power on the road is sublime. The numbers aren't the whole story. I had a 916 years ago great but overrated an R6 was much better. But I get your point.
I think these guys do the best real world reviews. I know this vid is 3 years old but I think he is spot on. I was in the market for a sports bike and tried them all and I can without a doubt say that all of the race bikes, Panigale V2 or V4, S1000RR, RSV4, R1 etc. absolutely suck to ride on the street. In fact, just 2 days ago I was getting repair done and they just offered for me to take a Panigale V2 out. It was awful, hot as hell, I could not lift my head up high enough to see, it has absolutely nothing under the hood below 8k and when the power kicks in it is so non linear and violent but just feels bad. Now the 950S is a much different story, it definitely reminds me of 80's-90's sport bikes. Yes, I do own a 950S but that was after being disappointed by all of the race bikes. I can 100% tell you that on the road the 950S feels faster than any of these race bikes, more torque, comfortable and so planted. I like that 937 engine so much that I have the Hyper SP, Desert X and the 950S. Anyone who buys based off of horse power figures or track times is making a big mistake. I suggest if you are not a track only or a track guy 5 times a year a race bike is not worth the expense or the suffering. If you ride the 950S on road you will absolutely not be disappointed by the power, it honesty feels like a 140hp bike or more. That being said, I also own a Pikes Peak, Super Duke Evo and a gen 2 Vmax so I can truly speak about the power differences......you will not feel under powered on the 950s.
My dream bike!!!
Great vid & review. Like this bike a lot. Out of interest did you play with the suspension at the track & manage to dial it in a bit better? At face value it looks like a very similar proposition to the RS660, which it is to some extent, but I'm not sure they're as close as they first appear. Having ridden neither lol, the RS660 appears a bit sharper & more sporty potentially.
We didn’t mess around with the suspension - you could calm it down a bit with the damping adjustment, but I think it would need stiffer springs to really make a big difference on track, which isn’t really the point of this bike.
@@chrisnorthover7582 Makes sense. Thanks for the reply.
The one thing Ducati could have done better was to make the exhaust fall more in line with the look and ride of the bike. The exhaust sounds like some low horsepower Cruiser or 4-stroke dirt bike engine.
Your reviews are always SPOT-on mate!
The sort of info from a real-world day to day biker's perspective, and the sort of feedback we all really want to know about...
Served with well thought of examples and notions that are almost able to transport us in to the ride with you...
Well done brother, i must say, VERY well done.
Thks for caring and for sharing.
Cheers and best regards from PORTUGAL
Talking about getting rid of ICE powered bikes made me super sad😞
Love the way you review bikes. Super informative, articulate and to the point. Many thanks. G.
Can you guys review the 2021 BMW S1000R naked bike? Really like the vids, keep up the good work!
Quoting it "Panigale for your dad" was the best sum-up anyone has ever come up with. That was savage. Loved the video (as always). Great Work Chris. ✌️
Own the previous 937 model, and love it great comfortable road bike and sufficient 113bhp mine has a mapped Termi that soynds awesome and longest I've owned a bike, dad's Panigale lol.
is it friendly to borderline beginners like a ninja 650? I have a little bit of experience from a few years ago and also a pure street guy, I’m the like the literal embodiment of all show, no go😂
@@Westside_Hippie I describe myself as an intermediate level rider, also all show and no go lol, she is fairly easy to handle so as a returning rider you should be fine, for a total novice I would say go to something with less bhp.
@@debenhamdave4314 borderline intermediate myself too but possibly rusty. My mindset/personality helps too. Honestly this bike checks all the boxes for me outside of Ducati prices 😂😂
@@Westside_Hippie yes fair enough, 2nd hand prices begin at £7500 for a stock 2017 model, but depreciation is very low. Enjoy what ever bike you choose but think you have the taste for a lovely red Ducati lol,
A couple of years ago at the NEC, I sat on nearly every bike there and this surprised me with how comfy it was. I'm a fan of retros and nakeds and I found it more comfortable than most of them! Really good ergonomics. If I ever wanted a sportsbike, this would be it!
Excellent review. I bought mine first time it came out 4 years ago and I have been enjoying it a lot since. I took it to track a dozen times, then decided she is too pretty and not really for track (just like he said. My biggest issue was the low pegs) and got myself a dedicated track bike. On the road I can't get enough of riding it though. Just so sweet. . Some quirks he didn't mention include: quick shifter works fine but not always. You have to be in the right rev otherwise it could get nasty on you. I rode BMW's with quick shifters and the quality difference is clear. Also, this one is really unhappy when it first wakes up. Until the engine warms up, throttle can be quite jerky and the bike can stall. Can't agree more with the thumb squeeze. It is super annoying. That kind of design fault should not exist, same goes for mirrors. But, overall, I love the thing. He captured the essence of it so well. It is a marvelous bike and the engine is absolutely addictive.
A comfy sport bike? What an innovative idea! Given that most riders will never go near a track (and hence lack the corresponding skills) but still like to feel as if they're Jorge Lorenzo, this machine is pretty much perfect. Excellent marketing by Ducati.
Really enjoyed this review. Thanks! I like the crackling sound she makes too 😊
great review, will have it in my next life as my sunday bomber!
Sold, best Ducati sales person Ive heard. I'll get mine on Saturday, I'm a dad
Best bike reviewer period ! No wheelies though . Are you o.k ?
love the look but i wonder if a ninja1000sx , heavier and more powerful, would be better for me ouch, ... my dad. considering he already has a z900rs and a speedtwin 1200 to play around with, and a comfy v85tt to munch miles.
The Ninja .. is the bike that this one wants to be when it grows up !!😁😁😁 Please get one .. fantastic bike ..!!. it ticks more boxes in the 8/9/10 out of 10 category than any other bike on the road ..👌👌👌😁😁
Can concur, I have one
This was the highlight of the 2018 NEC bike show for until I saw the power figures..
Ducati RoadSport 950S is a better name
Trellis frame is still there unlike the monster.
you mentioned that the suspension was soft; that needs a little more detail. I have a 2007 duc ST3s - That has a soft suspension. If you have ridden that bike, could you compare? Am guessing that street sport cornering would be improved a bit with the SS - would that be right? Also, I am 6'2" with long legs. Is that going to be a problem on longer drives? Ducati offers a "touring" pkg so they do believe the comfort could extend to do a bit of touring. You didn't say much about touring. Touring bikes do not have to be big clunky goldwings or hyped up adventure bikes. Do you think this SS has the power and nimblesness to navigate mountain switchbacks? From pictures I have seen the panniers look very trim. Can a tail bag even fit on the back of this bike? I do 95% of my riding looking for corners and practicing sport riding techniques. But I have mountains close by and enjoy week long tours with my ST3s. Would this bike be at home in the steep switchbacks? I do not like the fact that the mirrors vibrate - and looking over my shoulder all the time is unacceptable and not safe. Is Ducati working on a fix or can the mirrors be changed out? thank you
Crappy road surface? That reminds me, I have to tax my machine.
A perfectly articulated point of view. I'm going to look out for more reviews from Chris.
Great review! Thanks!
Only real critique I have is that I wish it had a bit more power - another ten lb/ft and 10bhp or so, and slightly less weight. Definitely more comfortable than a Panigale V2, but it's practically the same price... I have to wonder why. I still want one (and am most likely going to buy one), but I'll have to see about adding a tad more power and lightening it a little bit... the Panigale is hot as hell, and I rather do enjoy commuting on a motorcycle (and sitting at a stop with the Panigale is just ludicrously warm).
LOL that is what I was thinking a OLD mans sport bike. PS: I'm old.
Those "childish" pops and burbles are what makes riding riding, it's the little things that make you smile.
Still the best road tester out there
Great review, Chris. Odd question. 2021 950 Supersport S vs 2020 Triumph 765 Street Triple RS handling/engine for weekend back road rides and the occasional short tour?
I’m in the same dilemma aswell, Do let me know if you choose one. Cheers!
i really like your reviews man, they're on point!
not too much blahblah, just all the infos i want to get a little insight of a bike i might consider testing myself. keep up the awesome work!
Zero dislikes, dude ur content deserves a round of applause 👏
Thanks, someone's spoilt it, we have 1 👎
Thanks for a great review; relevant and measured, as ever. As I’m getting close to grumpy old git category, I’d take the Dukes lightness, character (sound, handling, name etc) and road excellence - just - over a new VFR 800. But hold on, what about consideration for Aprilia’s new RS660, Kwaker 1000SX or even a dirt cheap Suzy GSX -S750? Choices....
The old air/oil cooled Super Sports were awesome
Love british who ride bikes for some odd reason lol ( I’m Swedish ). Maybe it’s your accent making the hobby feel more sophisticated rather than a muurican ”I’m so tough!!”-accent. Is it worth going to the UK for a biketrip?
Love Your Video From Malaysia. Looking forward on this bike..tq
Niiiice man! Got an RS660 atm and am just dreaming about the new black/red RSV4. Too bad it’s three times the price :’)
Great review. Would love to hear a comparison of the SS and the StreetFighter for those of us who don't want their butts above their heads but still want some performance.
What a great review. Great looking bike. "Panigale for your dad" !!
Maybe I'm alone in this, but that trapping your thumb against the tank is exactly what Ducati does best.
I own a Panigale V2 as a dedicated track bike. I do 20 track days a year on it. Just bought a new Supersport S for the street. Its wonderfully set up for the street. I owned ADV style bikes like Multi's etc, but i just love being connected to the tank and the machine, vs being a sail in the wind.... Oh and i am a 52 year old "Dad"
I am in the process of deciding if I go for a V2 oder 950 S for the street
@@hatamoto68 i have two v2’s, one is track only and not street legal, the other is a piece of art in my garage (Bayliss v2) that dones get out enough. Mainly because for me, they are great for 20 mins track sessions with breaks in between, but torture on the street. Note that i am an one man of 51. The Supersport i would totally get over the v2 for daily riding and light touring. It’s the goldilocks bike.
Have ridden the first incarnation on the road and on a sunny twisty B road I really enjoyed it. As you say nice a comfortable bike with a great twin sound track. I found the quick shifter nice too😎
Great review as per normal Chris. So basically, this is a modern day CBR600F then?? Does pretty much everything and in comfort too!?
Yes, I’d go with that. Maybe a little less practical than the CBR6F but definitely more fun.
Woow WHAT HAPPENED TO THE RED VERSION.
I ride the "REAL DEAL V TWIN" A RED VTR1000F FIRESTORM" and as it cost me £10k less, AND IT IS FANTASTIC.
I think biking has gone BACKWARD BUT PRICES HAVE GONE FORWARDS LOL
The Ducati has RETRO TEC BUT FUTARISTIC PRICES and any "FOOL CAN BE EASILY PARTED FROM HIS MONEY"
I rest my case!
SAD :)
Chris, you are so much in details of its behaviour of being ridden properly, that only riders who could ride in the same manner will understand. But they would not look to this model for known reasons. These who would consider it as a potential purchase - would not understand what you was saying. Pure paradox
I just wish Ducati made an additional version with a 650-750cc engine and everything else identical to make it easier for beginners. A 950 may be a lil too dicey for me even I’m a pure city commuter side.
Reminds me of the old Yamaha YZF600 ... looks like a "600" Sportsbike of its time and it was good and comfortable enough to spend 6000 km on a three week roadtrip Germany -> Scotland -> around Ireland -> South UK and back to GER.
Thx Chris, I saw your MT-09-SP review and a number of others and eventually went out and bought one. The 2023 . Lotta fun, Love it. I ride the twisties on the weekends and do 3 to 4 track days a year on my MT-09-SP. I do very little else on it. Rarely ever longer than two hours in the saddle at a time due to other hobbies and time constraints. Based on the track day feel, I'm starting to consider that I need lower bars ( looking at the Woodcraft ) and higher further back rear sets so that I'm not dragging the pegs on the track days. Also, I'm just starting to run out of horsepower and considering an ECU flash tune. I don't quite think I want to be waded up on a full sports bike due to wrist comfort. And also because I occasionally take a pillion/guest on a ride. So given that, which would you recommend,.... sticking with the MT-09-SP and making the $1,500 in mods or trying the Super Sport 950 S ,perhaps a V2 Street Figher??...or is there something else you like for my particular riding needs and within this sub $20K price range?
I like the front fascia more than panigales. And the engine sound. My gripe is no split seat, small tank and small instrument screen
Fantastic review and better presenter. Straight to the point with a sense of humor that is never cheesy. Thank you.
If the review is correct (and I have no reason to not think it) I would say that Ducati hit the target with this bike, despite this I don't think it will have great commercial success (as already happened with the Ducati SS previous versions) and the reason is simple; people want black or white... grey? It's ok but it doesn't create passion and a bike is above all this; emotion, regardless of where come from (a old-classic, sbk, tourer, naked etc).
Anyway who knows, maybe I'm wrong, maybe the market changed.
A good bike, but its priced higher here in India than competitors like BMW F900XR which make a much better road bike due to suspension travel.
Every motorcycle review these days essentially panders the globalist message: Before we all put our bikes away, stop having fun, give up freedom, and live in prison until we die a miserable death, let's all have fun celebrating these wonderful bikes.
That's a Gentlemen's Bike!!!
Like this dude I trust his opinion 🙌
The Supersport name is just to identify it with the 90's SS so traditions.. for old bunts like me who have a 96 900SS LOL eg a dads panigali
Super Standard 950 S (standard) haha. nice review. lock to lock hand pincher ala ZX14!
CBR650R VS DUCATI 950S what's your thoughts?
I feel like these reviews come always come from the perspective of a almost professional rider, 90% of the people riding these things are not pushing the limits of these things like they do, so whatever they say needs to take a step back for the rest of us
Still dont' habit the English way of road riding, when the white Range Rover came in the corner I feel like it is coming in front of you then realize you go on a left lane XD
Love this review style.
I was looking to buy one and found a low mileage second hand example at my local dealer - for a bike that was only a couple of years old it looked pretty shabby. Put me off.
Excellent - thanks mate !
When you just bought the bike and need to break it in so you watch RUclips videos
2014 VFR? sorry to you Ducati guys but, paint it red and it'd be a Honda 😅😅😮
How is this bike compared to the previous one?
They need to make a more powerful Supersport around +/-170hp would be perfect