You can probably guess if you read my 1299 review, that I didn’t need much convincing to ask the fine fellows at Ducati Manchester if they had any 1299 Panigales available before Christmas. There was one.
Three weeks after returning their 1299 loan bike, I was sat handing over my hard earned as a deposit. My head and wallet said: “Hows about that Scrambler, or even the Multistrada? Both perfect for commuting to work.” But, when is buying a bike ever a rational decision? Every time I looked at the 1299 my heart was set aflutter and I remembered those 570 miles on the loan bike. Every single one, an absolute fairytale after the final three months of 899 ownership. The money had already left my account before the dealer even finished the phrase: “free Akrapovic cans”.
Picking a new bike up during Winter in the UK can be a bit of a lottery weather-wise. I’m sure many of you have been through it. Luckily, I got a dry day enabling me to get the 1299 home, set some lights up and get some cracking photos of the beautiful girl.
This is only the beginning. I’m going to keep updating this site with my thoughts and experiences of owning this beast of a machine. A few videos will be along very soon, as well as some proper high quality sound clips of the Akrapovic exhausts. If you have any specific questions about the 1299 or thoughts please leave them in the comments below or get in touch via the contact page.
Bike was supplied by Ducati Manchester. Graphics were done by Steve at Empire Graphics.
thatsbelter.com 
Hi I’m just about to pick up a 1299 Panigale after much research, soul searching, and a fair amount of panic as the bike is not an inconsiderable amount for someone as lowly paid as myself. Your website and video has been fantastic and has of course left me wanting to know more. So firstly congratulations, and secondly get more on there as soon as possible. My first of I’m sure many questions is, I see you have the R sticker kit on your bike, something I also intend to replicate, can you tell me if it is a genuine Ducati kit or not, how much it cost and if you applied it yourself??? Ok so strictly that’s two questions. Ian
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Hi Ian,
First thanks, the reason I’m making these videos is to do exactly that and help people who are considering buying.
In answer to your question the decals aren’t official Ducati. They were done by a guy in Manchester. He made them to my design and fitted them for me. If you are nearby let me know and I’ll email you his contact details.
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