Senior Member

Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Posts: 1,276
I haven't tried the V2 yet. But I still have a 959(full Akrapovic+race map).
The good things.
Pretty little thing, engine has character and enjoyable feeling. It is also reliable.
The bad ones.
The engine+chassis+suspension+ergonomics! My main problem is the way it delivers power. As a rider I like to carry a lot of speed inside the corners, tracks and streets. I can perfectly ride stop/dive deep and go but I don't find it as enjoyable. And since you will be riding the bike on the streets also, I don't think there is anything more enjoyable than to open the throttle inside the turn and feel/play with the forces.
Pushing on entry speed on the streets (in order to somewhat enjoy the 959) is one of the silliest/risky things to do.
About the power delivery, once you think about opening the throttle inside the turn the bike wants to stand up. Doesn't want to turn....keep the line. Don't get me wrong I can battle with her and she is kind of an interesting bitch sometimes, the question is do you want to? Especially if she will be your only sports bike?
Yes, the joke of a suspension it comes standard with is also to blame and probably the inadequate chassis. But I think it is mainly the character of the engine. By the way if you get the new V2 and it comes with the same grade back spring, get it out immediately and make a pogo stick. For a 3 years old......
I spoke with several owners on the tracks, 2 of them world class riders to give you some context and they all agree about it(engine). It is not a particularly enjoyable bike. There are far more entertaining options out there, especially for the street.
I know they changed the swingarm (single-sided) in the new V2 and maybe they modified the chassis and ergonomics also, I don't know.
The ergonomics of the 959 are bad also. Tank-bike dimensions & proportions-sitting position, neither good for the road nor for the track. Combine this with the power delivery and is not fun at all.
You mentioned the hp number. That can be deceiving. As an example I find much more easy to enjoy the new BMW S1000RR, new Aprilia factory & R1M on the street than the 959.
Get a test ride!
All that being said, I don't know what you want and expect from a bike.
Just my 2 cents.
Nes
Last edited by Nesca; 11-20-2019 at 09:13 AM.