Great review. Thank you. As an ex Australian Superbike racer in the 90’s when WSB was a mix of the 4 Japanese 4 cylinder 750 cc engines and the 916 cc Ducati (which was terrible in road trim), my Sport bike days are behind me. This Ducati is definitely on my list. Thee only downside is the heat from the engine. Living in Melbourne, we get a few days in the low 40’C and lots in the high 30’s when the riding is perfect. So this is my only concern as with all Ducati’s. It is still on my list to add as I looovvvee the looks of the S. 👍😎🇦🇺
Did you end up getting the Supersport? I have the Panigale V2 and it's so uncomfortable to ride. I'm thinking of the supersport instead, but worried I'll miss the extra power and torque of the Panigale.
@@colinoz Yes. Love it! Especially considering I’ve come from a Superbike racing background. A question for you to ask yourself regarding the power. How many times when you ride your Panigale do you find yourself constantly twisting the throttle to max to extract all available power and torque and are you finding yourself running out of recess each time you do? If your answer is rarely (if at all on the streets) then you ain’t going to miss what you ain’t using. It’s a simple way I use with all machines (including simple things like power tools).
@@marcusgeorge1825 Since you had second thoughts because of the heat: In my case, I applied a sheet of reflective metallic film glued to the underside of the seat and it helps.
Hi Scott, Your comparison charts are usually spot on, but in this comparison I think you got it totally wrong. Comparing this bike with 600cc bikes is a bit of a stretch. Just off the top of my head I can think of better comparisons eg the Yamaha MT09 or even it's sibling Tracer. Kawasaki's Z1000SX, Suzuki' similar offering. You don't need to go to the super nakeds to find comparisons. So amongst more suitable competitors you see the limitations of this Ducati. I think it is closer to a litre engined bike than to 650cc bikes so these are what it should be compared against. Sharp hair cut you have! ATB.
Yes, I totally agree with you but unfortunately I don't create the categories, the OEM's do and this is why I have the bike on the chart. Agree with them or disagree with them, I just put what the OEM's say. BUT with hind sight, I should from now on produce an "alternative" chart for us guys with common sense and put the bikes that really compare with the the bike!!! take care, Scott
I don't understand why they sell panniers for it - it's not as aggressive a body position as a Panigale, but this is no sports-tourer; the petrol tank is too small, no cruise control, and a forward-enough position that more than a couple of hours on it and you'll notice it. Ducati markets the 950S SuperSport as a 'practical' sports bike for the street, and I agree - it will do decent on a track day, but is mostly meant for fast road riding, not touring - if you wanted to do affordable (by Ducati standards) touring, that's what the V2 Multistrada is for.
The supersport is a nearly 1000cc sport tourer hence the integrated panniers the adjustable windscreen and the $20000 price tag, should be compared to that class, the reason everybody compares it to the middleweight (600-650) sport bikes it’s because the SS950 is underpowered and can’t keep up with the other liter bikes with comfortable ergo, I do agree that is arguably the best looking Ducati out there.
You actually CAN easily get a full face helmet in each pannier no problem with the expansion zipper open. I have a base 2018 (non-ohlins) with 10K miles now and absolutely no reliability or quality issues. The fully adjustable Marzocchi fork/ Sachs pre-load and rebound adjustable shock on the base model are quite comfy and do the suspension work well for the road. The S suspension would be better for trackdays but I think the motor would let the bike down somewhat on track more than the base suspension. It's a goldylocks motor for the road: enough power, classic L twin sensations and sometimes your pinning the trottle when riding sporty so you don't feel like the bike is in a different league than you are, ha ha. Where I live in N. Ireland the heat is rarely a problem. I can think of one time stuck in traffic on a hot day where I noticed it, but if I lived in a warm place I can imagine it's a concern. When it's time to get a new bike in a year or three I'm 'probably' going to get a newer Supersport S (giving into the vanity of the Ohlins 🙂) or a multistrada V2S (I test rode both the V2 and V4 earlier this year and they are both great but liked the V2 better).
Mirrors are useless, heat is there, but manageable. Still, I love my Supersport 950. I only wish it had the 1200cc Monster R engine with 160 ponies. The 937cc V2 doesn't feel lacking, but I still feel this bike deserves a bit more power.
Fundamentally how would that bike differ from the GSXS1000GT, Guzzi V100 or the Ninja1000? It is sporty, it has a full fairing, it is a litre bike, has a sporty upright riding position, and has optional paniers.
Just to add my two cents as an owner for several months now…. The two cons of the SuperSport 950S are: 1. Engine heat is unbearable for long distance or stop and go traffic. Truly…. Not an exaggeration. 2. The seated position is also slightly uncomfortable long distance. Otherwise, there is nothing I hate about it… however, those two cons have led me to strongly consider trading in for a streetfighter v2.
You complain about the heat so your solution is to buy a bike...that is even hotter? I mean I'm biased because I own a 950SS but the heat isn't unbearable. It's a pain but I hit stop and go traffic all the time in 90° summer heat and I survive. But I think it's hilarious that your solution is the same as your problem lol
@@JoeyMrTurbo A 150 hp naked bike isn't going to solve your long distance comfort problem and buying the V2 really won't solve your heat problem. If you want to stick with a Ducati, your cons list is better served with a Multistrada v2 imo. The only time my 950SS feels too slow is when I'm already at jail bait speed. It's plenty of power for the road and the Multistrada V2 shares the same powerplant. Also the Multi is much easier to put luggage on for actual touring which I'm guessing you'd like to do.
I've toured down to Southern Italy (from north England) on my '18 Supersport S - most Ducs give off heat, and I found it the most comfortable seat on any bike...better than my Multistradas. - I'm 5'10 - maybe you're taller? I'm going to get a 950 S.
I am sorry, but like you, I ordered a new 23 BMW R1250RT fully loaded in BLUE. Thank you for pushing me over the top. I rode my son's Ducati, and frankly they were the very WORST motorcycle I have ever ridden. They are very uncomfortable, I always felt like I was lifting weights riding it for more than 15 minutes. They turn SO HARD and keep turning. Never again.
I love the looks and ethos of this machine. A test ride showed that the engine suits the bike and the chassis felt sublime. I also found the riding position to be pretty much perfect for me. Trouble is, stepping off a breathed-on Beemer R1200S I was ultimately disappointed with the performance - just needs a bit more oomph. If Ducati would produce a 1200 Supersport, with the bigger Testastretta engine I'd probably sign on the line tomorrow...
The bike wakes up with a 14t front sprocket. The newer version gets a dash warning fault with the sprocket change, whereas the older one works fine. That R bike better be pretty breathed on, even a new RS.
@@johnlangston6951 Well, 212kg, 120rwhp and, most notably, 83Ibf of torque made it pretty lively. Not at all interested in top speed but the shove available everywhere was pretty intoxicating - there was 70Ibf+ on hand from 3000rpm through to 8750. My current 1250RS has monster torque but also weighs over 240kg, so performance is similar.
What it really competes with nowadays is the GSXS1000GT and Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX. And in that market it gets demolished by Japanese reliability. I think there's an argument that the Supersport COULD be the best bang for the buck IF it came with the Marchesini forged wheels you get on the Hypermotard 950 SP or electronically adjustable Ohlins suspension. But at $17k that's a tough sell even if it might be the best looking bike Ducati has made in the last 20+ years.
Great review on a very pretty machine. But I read in the comments that there is no cruise control or heated grips.... for us middle aged riders we gotta look after our paws! 🐶
GREAT review! I currently ride a 14 vfr 800 deluxe. Considering an upgrade. Your review is helpful towards me spending my chump change. Thank you I think…..
@NothingToProve Excellent...had mine new since Nov 23...6000 miles later and it's been faultless...smiles to the face everytime I take it out...something very special about Moto Guzzi....keep up the good work my friend
Ducati is so damn expensive for what you get. Can you start mentioning servicing intervals & approx Euro costs please Scott👌 Thanks Scott! Doing great!
I got my new Ducati SS standart model for $9,999 dollars plus tax, license, registration and extended warranty., I got a good deal. I walk in to the dealer at right date and time. Short story, I walk in saw the red tag sales on the bike, I went to the sales guy desk and I asking if that whats the price just to make sure and he say yes, then I say sold here's my driver license and my Visa checking card., He start to laugh and ask why and he said to me you see that gentleman over there, he's waiting for his son cause there are going to buy the bike and I say well that he put some money to hold it, rep sales no, and I say to bad cause now that beauty is mine. So the gentleman call his son saying never mind bike got sold and he was kind of upset with him cause he was waiting for half hour already when I show up.😃
I have owned a lot of bikes over the years 4 of them Ducati’s. A 2000 996S started it but the later ducs all had snatchy throttle issues. That 900SS with its bags does tick all the boxes but I went another direction. I bought a 2022 Kawi H2 SX SE. You need to test one. It’s a delight to ride with great ergos and the best stock suspension I’ve ever experienced. (I have a 2022 RT as well. It’s the 719 scheme). I like the RT for cold or wet weather but for apex strafing sport touring my new H2 is the gentleman’s express. You need to test one and see for yourself.
I got rid off my Ninja H2 SX SE, yep has a lot of power that I don't need and got me a Ducati SS, there is nothing like the feeling of a v_twin engine on the road.
I'm in my sixties and ride comfy adventure bikes at a reasonable pace. No desire to go fast on the road, but this bike makes me feel like I'd be 19 again if I rode it. Beautiful design. Great review as usual Scott, thanks.
if you ever get chance please compare it with F3 MvAgusta. when I was thinking of buying red motorcycle for 14k gbp in the UK i could buy 950s, f3 and s1000r. decided to buy s1000r because more power, extra goodies like heated grips and cruise control. i think f3 has cruise control too. great review 👏🏽👏🏽
I sold an MV F3 to buy this Supersport and can tell you the two bikes are in no way comparable - the F3 is a race bike for the road, like 600s used to be.
I don’t get why you compared with some 600cc sport bikes … this is a sport tourer bike, you should have compared with the z1000sx / Suzuki gt or even probably the r1250rs…
This Ducati is absolutely beautiful and has the right sound, but.......the Ninja 1000SX is a better executed bike. The Ninja has more power (better power to weight ratio) with no engine heat. The lockable hard bags hold full face helmets and when the bags are removed, you don`t have an ugly frame left behind on the bike. Up right sitting position, larger rear seat. And it`s also less expensive.
Great review, too bad they don’t include heated grips and cruise control and for that price they really should. I think I’d save the $6k and buy the Aprilia RS660.
I like the Aprilia, but it's definitely a class below the Ducati, missing not so much top-end HP, but mid-range torque. Plus, look closely and details don't match up well to the Duck.
As I read my Kindle every night, I wonder why hasn’t a motorcycle company considered the high contrast E-ink display?? I’m no genius so I assume this has occurred to someone and therefore there must be some roadblock. Maybe refresh rate?? Just wondering….
I have one, lighter wheels , termi and upmap and rizoma mirrors and perfect bike , confort seat , wrs screen and panniers when travelling, perfect bike for me, a multistrada with style
@@IanTed Subjective. The symphony of inline four cylinders is unbeatable. This is a half hearted effort by Ducati. Waiting for the day when they port the Multistrada's electronics to the Supersport.
@@NothingToProve Thanks. The most hilarious part was when the reviewer mentioned 'It's updated. And now it has the 950s badge and some additional vents'
Seriously if Ducati would just put cruise on the supersport, my partner and I would happily trade the 2 non-ducatis we own tomorrow. We already have a multi and scrambler but just want something to fit both our needs that fits between those two bikes in terms of use, and cruise is the one thing that’s stopping us from purchase. C’mon Ducati
Was going to say the Suzuki GT is a better comparison. Don't think anyone shopping those 650s is looking for a liter class bike. Nor looking to spend the $.
This will be my next bike. I was to cheap to shell out an extra 4K for this and go a Z900RS. Still breaking it in, but can tell already it doesn’t produce as much smile time
Its a good motorcycle but not great.Ive had two of these and gone back to the latest vfr800.A great move.The VFR IS JUST SO COMPLETE AND ACCOMPLISHED IN COMPARISON.......Cheers for now.
I really enjoy the tone and presentation of these reviews but the quantity, quality and usefulness of advertisements certainly undermine the enjoyment. Just venting - thanks! Opps, during my mini-rant I forgot my question: Is the quick shifter better or as good as Triumph’s and BMW’s?
You're overlooking the Honda VFR,. I owed an '87 and a 2008 Earlier versions were more full-on sort bikes but the 6th Generation.was definitely a sport tourer. I could ride mine for 300 mi with no discomfort or fatigue. That being said, the VFR is no longer made and few pristine examples areavailable. I'm looking to get back on a bike and the 950 Super Sport S is likely my choice
To compare a bike made today to a bike made a long time ago, it's not fair to either bike. Hmm...then I'd have to add about 100 bikes to the chart. This is why I only compare current bikes being made today. BTW I also owned a VFR, a 2001 VFR800, great bike but the on/off throttle was a little harsh for my taste.
My last one was a 2008. They had improved the throttle by then. The title to your post was that Ducati had created the segment. My response was to mention that the VFR proceeded Ducati in the segment. @@NothingToProve
Man, I love that bike. I was cross shopping it with a Ninja 1000 for use as a sporty tourer (ended up getting a Z900 with Shad pannier racks). Would the Duc be comparable with the Ninja? I had thought it would be, based on the engine size and nature of the two bikes.
The bike I'd compare this SuperSport 950S to would be the BMW R1250RS. Other than the displacement both are twins, brembo brakes, similar ride position, both are sport touring, have luggage options, single side swingarm, and Ohlins suspension.
Best looking Duc in my view. The heat is a show stopper for me. Others mentioned that the mirrors are useless due to vibration. Did you notice that as well?
I live in Florida and sold my V2 after 2,000 miles. It would roast your legs and would shut off at traffic lights in the summer (vapor lock perhaps?) Anyways I stuck with my trusty R9T Scrambler. Ducatis are so beautiful though. If I had disposable cash I would have kept the V2 and just put it on display to look at.
Thanks for the review .. I do enjoy your channel and calm demeanour! Could I ask that you please post a link to the Alpinestars top you are wearing? TX!
From my pov comparable bikes are (money wise or similar HP): Honda CBR650r, Aprilia rs660, Kawasaki Ninja 1000sx, Suzuki GSX s1000 GT, Aprilia Tuono V4 (non factory) and BMW R 1250 RS.
Thank you. They are 2 different focus points, this performance, the XR is on comfort. From wind protection to riding position the XR is more comfortable. This will out performance the XR in every aspect, except comfort and ergonomics. take care, Scott
Scott, a lot of riders say the bike gets really hot in the summer months, does it really gets so hot in the summer riding? I currently ride HD sportster 48, and it gets pretty hot in city riding but ok on open roads. Thanks!
@@fuzzypic Yea, this got hot, a little too hot for my taste, to the point it would bother me...eventually over time. But that is usually true with almost all Ducati's. So I didn't say a lot about it cause it's a given. take care, Scott
@@NothingToProve Interesting. I haven't ridden either but the Monster won MCN 'bike of the year' last year, for me it's pretty average looking though whereas the SS looks great.
She is a very versatile and well balanced under any perspective also geared in a way that she always ready when you call her !! Awesome review as always 👏 👌
Nice review👍.Compared to your Street Triple or a Yamaha Mt9, how is your Ducati Supersport in low traffic in town? Is it unrideable under 20-30 m/h as often reported? I understand that the Supersport is enjoyable only if the rev are above 6,000? Is this true? Does it have the cruise control? Is the seat & the sitting position comfortable for tall rider? Many thanks for your review - Keep up the good work✌
Bike rides superb. I only ride in Sport mode. The only issue around town is heat, not a problem when moving, just when sitting in traffic. The bike needs cruise, I use a clothespin throttle lock. Rides spritely at 3k, hits the cam at 6k, peaks at 9k and goes to sleep at 10k. The 14t front sprocket helps. Handling, balance and braking superb. 20hp more would be nice.
Only when revving above 6000? Whoever said that either never rode one or had a particular sense of enjoyment. That thing has so much low end torque! That is probably the most fun thing about that bike, it pulls the instant you open the throttle, not just after the engine took the time to get in the high rev.
The R7 is the odd one out really, it’s a street bike with a fairing, developing just 72bhp. Fine if the rider doesn’t intend to do many overtakes but it’s taking a risk if you want a more spirited ride. The Triuimph is borderline but at least not pretending to be a sports’ bike.
