959 vs 899 Panigale

It is so minute though. They really could be the same.

The 959 can pass off as a slightly modded 899. Feels like I'm playing the "spot the difference" game.

From a distance it might be hard to tell the two apart, i'd say they could have done more but it's hard to say what more they could have done with how simple Ducati design says.

Helios said:

It is so minute though. They really could be the same.

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But they're not the same. The tail sections are also different, the exhaust is now black, the air intakes have been re sculpted...

In all honesty if you can't tell the differences why don't you just go buy an 899? or a Honda

SpeedyGonzales said:

I think I found most of the difference without taking a closer look.

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The circle around the exhaust is also covering the Ducati engine badge that is visible through a cutout on the 959 (like the 1299).

I just wish they went for a black tip on the exhaust just so it sort of disappears and flows better with the overall look of the bike, the little bit that stands out from the tip in a different finish doesn't look that great to me.

A lot cleaner on the 1299. What are those numbers stuffed in the right corner? Can't really see it.

SpeedyGonzales said:

A lot cleaner on the 1299. What are those numbers stuffed in the right corner? Can't really see it.

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Exactly which numbers on the right corner?

I think they're looking at the 1, 5, and 2 in the bottom right corner of the 899.

Thanks for posting that picture, was hard to make out those letters on top in the original photo posted.

corsa said:

Thanks for posting that picture, was hard to make out those letters on top in the original photo posted.

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For sure, thats one of the definite draw backs of the 899 display. It's nice to have everything displayed in one place, but not if it sacrifices usability...

Also, would it be too much to ask for a proper fuel gauge? Sure it has a trip meter and fuel consumption info, but why not go that extra little step and let the rider know how much fuel is actually left? Surely it's not a cost issue, as the cheaper 250/300cc bikes even have them.

You get the low fuel warning light? Not sure why they would leave out what I see as an essential component.

BBBingo said:

For sure, thats one of the definite draw backs of the 899 display. It's nice to have everything displayed in one place, but not if it sacrifices usability...

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One of the reasons why I can't wait for HUD tech in helmets, that should make the riding experience quite interesting.

corsa said:

One of the reasons why I can't wait for HUD tech in helmets, that should make the riding experience quite interesting.

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Because Ducati, its not Italian if it doesn't make your life difficult!

moto said:

You get the low fuel warning light? Not sure why they would leave out what I see as an essential component.

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Yep, which is sufficient for riding in populated areas. But when riding in some of the more remote areas of Australia, when that light comes on you may not make it to the next town. So carrying some extra fuel becomes necessary.