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So, is it worth the money? Yes and no. (oh, oh) Drop the R parts and the stock Mille is a very capable handler too. It's not exactly lacking in either engine or suspension and handily undercuts the Ducati on pricing. So, can you justify the extra dosh on the R version with its Ohlins suspenders, steering damper, carbon and lighter wheels? Well, there's a loaded question. 99% of these bikes will live on the street, a place where the stocker has all things well covered. The Ohlins difference will only come into play at racetrack speeds for the other 1%. For mere mortals, the stocker will more than suffice but for those who can or think they can appreciate the difference, it's money well spent.
I appreciate this is not a three way comparison, but I can't ignore the other WSB race rep V-twins that enjoyed the company of this test Mille R, and will indeed, share its V-Twin segment of the market... so here goes nothing.
The Honda RC51 is a no fuss dependable bike that can be ridden hard and put away wet. It's a great bike, but it doesn't stir your soul like one of the Italian jobbies.
With the 996 it's lust at first sight. You want to love and cuddle the damn thing, buy it flowers and get it into your bed (or garage). This is an extremely high maintenance, cantankerous and somewhat temperamental old bird, but when the duck is finally yours though, your eyes will not stray.
Now, with the Mille, and because it's a little umm… chunkier, I get mixed feelings and hear mixed comments about her. I'm really not sure. It has all the nice bits, but not in the same graceful proportion as the Duck. It offers the RC51's great gas and go traits and you will fall in love with this bike, but I do honestly feel at some point in its ownership, you'll be looking over your shoulder at the skinny 996S and wondering, what if?
Mike Emery
Glossary
* Molto riempiendosi = Very something or other
* molto veloce = A wee bit fast
* Mama Mia = Oh' shit
* Sanguinante = Bloody
* More tea Vicar = Lets get it on
* là lo avete = Hoo-bloody-ray
* Molto buono = Very Good
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