I decided to down to the local EBR dealer today to take the opportunity to ride the RX, before the move next week as the closest dealer will end up about three hours away. I was pleasantly surprised to find out they had just gotten a SX in the weekend prior. I must say that the headlight is not even close to being as ugly as in the pictures. It looks so much better in person - the entire bike actually. I really liked it. And better yet, it was available to test ride! And so I did.
I wasn't sure what to expect from the bike, but all the hype/reviews on the forums were confirmed - what a great machine! The only thing I actually really didn't like, and it may just be a matter of getting used to it, is the instrument cluster. It seemed very busy, especially coming from the very simple XB cluster.
Other than that - the engine had some unique noises (I haven't heard the 1125 so I can't compare) - marble sounds, especially when decelerating. Not sure if I absolutely like the chain drive - I think it may have some noise. The bike definitely likes to rev. Above 6-7krpm she just wants to go go go, but between 4-6k should be just fine for cruising and city riding. It doesn't like 2-3k at all, but is okay with very light throttle between 3-4k.
I could see this as being my next bike - if they price ends up coming down a little. I think 17000 is a bit on the high side. I was talking with the owner, Ray Price, and got to talking about the very topic of pricing and we both agree that a smaller cc engine with a price of a few thousand less would greatly increase sales. This is what he hopes the new 821cc sized Monster will do for Ducati, as the new Monsters he has in stock right now just aren't selling...