HELIOLITH

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#1

The 750 will be OK, but the torque of the 900 or 1000 engines is a great source of pleasure. In combination with the 90 degree V-twin design the big power pulses are a sensual delight, and useful in everyday riding. Either bike has the sort of power that is forgiving, and power increases with RPM in a predictable “straight line curve” , not exponentially as the four cylinder bikes do. I have an old 1975 - 750 Sport, that is also a joy to ride, and will keep up with traffic. The 83 HP of my modified 900 is more exciting. but not at all intimidating. I feel that Ducati type 100 HP in a 400 lb bike is ideal.

I had a Vespa in 1954, a 500 cc single street bike in the 60’s, rode dirt bikes and small street bikes in the 70’s, and have been on Ducati since 1982. I road raced my 750 Sport for 4 years in the early - to -mid 80’s. Now I ride sportingly in the mountains of the S.E. USA and do track days. I live in Chattanooga TN.

YMMV — Means — Your mileage may vary.

The 750 can be ridden pretty quickly, and will be plenty for a couple of years, but you will probably want more power eventually. The greater mid range power of the bigger V-Twins mostly just “feels” good. It will make you a faster too, but mostly speed is in skill. Remember that smoothness is your goal, and speed only comes with smoothness. Riding within your limits is essential for a long fun riding experience, and there is no shame in staying within your comfort zone. If you are scaring yourself, you are riding over your head, which is not cool. Being able to go to work every monday is more fun than calling your boss from the hospital asking for vacation time. You are never required to “keep up” with anyone, ignore anyone who says “try to keep up”. or puts pressure on you to be faster. On a group ride, be predictable and signal your intentions any major riding changes. Ride with smart folks you trust. Sand, gravel, oil, fuel, animals, traffic, are all more dangerous on a bike. Watch the surface of the road constantly, but also look far down the road - the faster — the farther. Look through the turns, not AT them. Do a pre - ride check of the bike, especially tire pressures, before every ride.