@SixShock,
The 1103 cc V4 can be raced in Open and Unlimited and maybe even some Formula classes. You never know, the orgs like WERA, AFM et al may open it up for SSTK or SBK classes if they can get more entries. Last Sunday at Buttonwillow the Formula 1 race I was in had close to 40 entries!
The base model Showa BPF fork is a solid performer. Ohlins makes NIX 30 mm and 25 mm FKRR cartridges that are designed to fit.
The fork that comes on the S is a mass-produced component spec'd by Ducati in conjunction with Ohlins and then manufactured by a third party. Same goes for the shock. These components are of excellent quality but not the same as the aftermarket items Ohlins makes. The part number for the S/R/Speciale/SL et al forks is stamped into the axle clamp on the inside.
S forks and R forks from 2013 are the same but in 2015 the R came without eletronic suspension so the fork cap is different. If you know you stuff you can mix and match some of these parts to get something "special(e)" ;-)
FGRT forks can be had for as little as $2000 (new) and the machined flats on the sides really make a difference when the bike is leaned, that is why I installed the SL fork tubes. The FGRT forks do come with these but the set I had was for a 2012 1199 base model which had a larger diameter top fork clamp because Marzocchi was the fork supplier and that fork didn't taper the top of their tubes like the Ohlins were/are.
Keep in mind that getting high-performance parts does not always mean your bike will perform better after install. You must find someone who is experienced and understands WHY a change needs to be made. Setup is key and it is much easier to get it wrong than right!
Most people can ride the stock components after setting sag and be VERY happy. Manufacturers don't test to sell crap.
