Did think about the 950S. I like the idea of a Ducati and a mate has one of these and it does sound good. To be fair, the new Tiger 900 has a similar exhaust note now, which is an improvement over the 800 for me. Trouble is, they are close to £14600 if you spec one up to match the Tiger as compared to £12800.
I don’t think you even get £12800 of fun. I think it’s more to be seen on than enjoyment. That’s just my opinion
Cost of main-dealer "servicing" always makes me laugh. Basically an oil and filter change and they charge hundreds. When my Merc was new, I used to get it serviced at the dealer - I do it myself now and any big jobs get the local fella to do. Looking at it, I don't think the dealer touched it - certainly the rear brakes had never been touched. By the way, you can get your new bike (or car) serviced anywhere and the warranty will still be valid as long as the workshop follows the manufacturer guidelines, uses genuine parts and (importantly) details all the work carried out and the parts used on the invoice.
You can have your car that’s under warranty serviced elsewhere as long as they use genuine parts etc but this doesn’t apply to motorbikes , bikes fall into a different category, mcn did a piece on this a couple of years ago, i pay for the 500 and 6000 mile service which covers me upto the 12.000 mile or 2 year service I then do it myself.
Thats not unusual, had that happen to me in the past. Like you say Steve they don't like getting their demo's wet and dirty....
Yes, I stand corrected - thanks for the update. I just did some research and you are correct in stating that the 2003 EU Block Exemption does not apply to motorcycles (along with some other vehicles) and only to cars. However, given my experience with Mercedes, I will never bother with main dealers if I am going to keep a vehicle for a while (which I usually do). I spent a fortune on Merc dealer services and warranties, and the only time I claimed (for an oil leak from the oil cooler, which is a known fault) they backed out. Not even any good-will payments. Will never buy one again.
