Epiphany...

After much thought, and a couple of discussions with a good friend of mine, who was planning to buy a pre-loved Yamaha FZ1 and spend a lot of money on parts (the exchange rate is awfully flattering for us at the moment), and has changed his mind to seriously contemplating an Aprilia Dorsoduro 750. Now he was an exceptionally talented SuperMoto racer. However circumstances changed, and he ended up bikeless.


The resultant conversations got me to thinking, a lot. 


I've always intended to do a no-limits project bike. Which is my reason for hesitation regarding the Dorsoduro, as there aren't enough pre-fabricated custom parts out there. However, WHAT IF started playing through my head...


So, this is what I came up with, and how I got there...


I thought about what the biggest limitation regarding the Ducati Hypermotard was. Basically, the engine is a bilge pump. Air cooled, low tech, heavy, relatively low on HP and torque.


What if I found a wrecked 1098 or 999 Testastretta engine? Perform a rebuild/refresh, and slot it into that lovely trellis frame on the Hypermotard. Of course it would be the EVO SP version. Suddenly we have 50 more HP on tap, and about the same % rise in Nm of torque. Along with all the engine management that goes with it.


The only issues I see are:
1. Finding a suitable engine
2. Finding a suitable exhaust
3. Fabricating engine mounts to suit
4. Locating the radiator so it doesn't mess with the lines of the bike
5. Electrics and electronics


However, none of these are insurmountable, depending on the budget...


But imagine the giggle factor something like that will bring...

Option # 4 - KTM 990 SuperMoto R

Now, this thing has all the credentials. Fast, relatively light, a fair smattering of aftermarket parts, great motor and brakes, KTM... And all the suspension, braking and rim goodies you can ask for as a stock bike. However it's ugly... Really ugly, to me. I just don't feel it at all. If I could get decent aftermarket plastics, and change its colour, or if it came in a different colour, it'd be a no brainer, even though it's the most expensive of the lot. But it's horrid!!

So there you are... I should have an answer in about 6 months as to which way I will go... Although by then, something else shiny and bright may have caught my eye...

Option # 3 - Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200

Now, this actually has just climbed on the list... It is a really close second to the Ducati. Even closer now. 130HP, 15 HP over the closest rival. It's a bit porky, however if there was a "Factory" version, it would be sitting in my #1 spot. It also has optional ABS and Traction Control... And a fist full of torque.

My primary reservations are: It's a first model run, there are no aftermarket parts as yet, and it doesn't have the "factory" option...

Which moves me to the last on the list...