'09 Honda Fireblade HRC vs Ducati 999s Mono '05/'06

I have £8k to spend on my next bike and I'm torn between these two. I can't decide if I want to return to the V-twin or if I'd be better off staying with IL4s.

I love the Ducati for being a bit different, I know a lot of people think the 999 looks like a dog but I love it. But then the Fireblade is technically brilliant and the looks of the new shape has really grown on me over the years. I test rode the Fireblade recently and it was very similiar to my current bike, easy to ride but just with sh!t loads more power. I've asked around but it seems to be pretty difficult to test a 999 as most dealerships are reluctant to let people have a go on 2nd hand bikes.

Does anyone here currently/previously own(ed) either of these bikes? What would you go for?

can you get a brand new blade for that money?

my mate has just odered one in repsol colours, and its more comferable than his 04 blade.

personaly, i dont like the look of the 09 blade, unless its the repsol one. the LTD edition yellow is ok, as is the HRC one

i have never liked ducatis

what is your curant bike?

honda for the win

Originally Posted by hovis

can you get a brand new blade for that money?

Nope unfortunately not, I'll hopefully be buying the bike during August/September though so should be enough time for the depreciation to begin to kick in + I find that's when better deals begin to crop up. I'm currently riding a CBR600rr6

[Mr Speirs]

A lot of people say the Ducati 749/999 seris looks rubbish and so did I until I saw mine in Yellow and it is stunning in the flesh.

I have shown pictures of my bike to people and they say ah yeah that's nice then a few have then seen it in the flesh and gasped at how nice it is. Gives me a big smile, just can't wait until I can ride the thing.

24 days to go.

Which one do you have? year? How have you found the reliability & build quality?

[Mr Speirs]

I have a 749S. As I said I haven't actually managed to get out on it yet due to insurance issues. Build quality is frankly amazing! Everything feels so solid and quality and the attention to detail is stunning.

TBH the modern Ducati when looked after will be as good as anything else.

IMO you should go test ride both then get an RSV

Hmm try a CBR600rr, or even a Ducati 848..

Originally Posted by Jamiebridges123

Hmm try a CBR600rr, or even a Ducati 848..

Ahhh yes 848. Good choice. Not much more money (might be able to get one 2nd hand for £8K!

I had a look over cog heads 749 at bassetts pole on tuesday night.

Ducati are nice looking bikes but the service costs would put me off, that and its italian

The new blade is a very nice weapon.

Easy choice for me. Jap IL4