After installing the DP rear sets and Compworks integrated tail lights and BST wheels, I decided to take the bike on a test run on a fast sweeping and tight slow twisties canyon run and rack up some miles and to really assess the difference between the 1199 and 1299. Things I really notice and stood out stood out was:
1. Wider power band -I didnt have to work the gears not nearly as much as I had to on the 1199. I didn't have to keep the revs /gear and be mindful of keeping the revs/gears in the power band specially on the corner exits. this made it extremely more comfortable/enjoyable and not working hard or concentrating as much.
The bike jumps off the corner with a lot more power and aggression than the 1199 but doesn't get tied up in knots.
2. Lots of traction on the rear. I think this is due to the new swing arm position provides less anti-squat on the rear (The R guys with the adjustable swing arm, -4 is the bomb!)
3. Tighter turn on the slow tight corners I think this is due to the the 24 degree versus 24.5 on the 1199.
4. The Semi active suspension works well as advertise the default setting is comfy on the street but too soft with aggressive riding in the canyons. the harder setting one up from the default is perfect for aggressive canyon riding (for me) this will depends on the riders weight. I did notice the the gyro's working on each corner, the suspension was consistent no matter how hard or soft you brake before the corners. Amazing technology and it's something I need to get used to.
5. ABS- worked as advertise not any different that the 1199 but I actually had to use it yesterday. I was going to the dealer and a lady stopped hard at a green light, I thought is was her fault but it wasn't because a kid running across the crosswalk while it was red I was preparing to do a stoppie but the ABS kicked in worked well. I didn't have the balls to check in a lean someone else can review that. Please let me know how that works out.
6. The DQS Up/Down are accurate and smooth. I dont know how many of you just dump the clutch and let the slipper take over on the 1199 as I did but im sure this will save my clutch. Its a blast!
7. The paddle switch is another blast! tried it with all three setting Wheelie control, EBC and traction control and works as advertise I know it will be fun on the track. I like keeping it on TC I had fun around some corners turning it down to back the rear in and then turning it back up on the fly. I must of went through the same corners five times to play with it.
8. Most of all the bike is freakishly fast.
9. The Ohlin electronic Steering Dampener is something most people over look I played with it a bit and you can feel the dampener adjust as speed increases and decreases. Makes steering a lot easier and you don't have to worry about the settings when going form cruising to aggressive riding.
Things I don't like:
1) The exhaust system looks like crap! You can only purchase the 1299 Akrap Exhaust through Ducati now from my understanding Akrap signed a deal with Ducati for the 1299 and Its approx $5k. I was told the 1199 Akrap exhaust wont fit the 1299 due to length of the headers. The slips will work.
2) The 20mm wider screen helps from side to side but the low profile stock screen still flows air right to your forehead. Corsa screen is still needed.
3) I forgot how much heat the subframe puts out. I'm definitely putting the Shift-Techs carbon Frame covers back on.
4) Barely get a wallet in the tail section. Volume looks the same but you have to slide the black piece under the red rear top L/R fairings to get it on. you cant just smash something in there anymore.
5) mirrors still looks at your elbows but you can actually see whats behind you when you tuck your elbows closer to you. They still vibe like crazy you cant make out if a cop is behind you or not You can only tell if its a car.
6) Stock Rear Sets are still crappy although the pegs are not slippery they are in a comfy position for commuting/tall people and long commuting but too low for any type of spirited riding. Changed to the DP performance they put you knees up to the tank perfect. FYI The lowest setting on the DP performance rear sets is higher than stock setting.
I think Ducati hit a home run with this bike and fixed a lot of issues I had with the 1199. Its still a superbike so some of the quirks riding in the street is still there although its a lot smoother than the 1199. I cant wait to track this thing and see what my consistant lap time will be at Big Willow. I am expecting quicker lap times not because on power but because of how easier it is to ride and maintain the lines. I wont be doing much engine mods/gearing changes as you don't have too unless you want a track only/race bike.