Yes. As I said they like to "fall" into corners, which is disconcerting at first. You'll get used to it once you become comfortable with just how far over you can lean the bike.

As to the exhaust heat, I've heard the ladies prefer carbon cans and a layer of adhesive thermal barrier film under the seat.

 

As already mentioned, I'd chalk a lot of your discomforts up to getting back into sport bike riding after being away for so long.

That said, I'm a huge believer in making the bike fit you as opposed to to trying to make yourself fit the bike.

Look into clip ons and rearsets to dial in bar reach and foot position.

Also, check your tire pressures. Running what the manual suggests or what's on the sidewall will make you feel like you are falling off of a cliff when you lean her over.

I like 32lbs front and rear. Remember that the numbers in the book and on the sidewall are assuming you'll be carrying a passenger.

 

No one has ever come off that bike saying anything but "wtf, this is hell, never again".

 

I'd rather carry a hungry cougar on my back through a butcher shop than take a passenger on a Duc.

 

Amen

 

Fixed

 

Monoposto FTW

 

Great advice guys.


Logged 372 MORE miles yesterday with a few buddies. Leader had a 1098s....road that thing like it was an extension of his body. I was, at certain points- VERY intimidated on the bike. We had lots of switch backs. Did a lot of braking. Didn't feel like I could get a really good idea of what was going on under the front or rear wheel; but I STILL have to set up the suspension for me. So I'll do that next week during it's 1st service.

Was nerve racking at times, but still very happy with her.