My dad has a highly modified 1993 900ss. High comp pistons, valve and head work, and the Kehin 41mm flat slide carbs. (If you don't have flat slides....holy crap....I can't tell you how much those darn things did for that bike). Anyway, I've ridden his bike a good bit and I know the intoxicating instant and linear torque you are referring to. I have also recently test rode the 899 (I have yet to buy one). I had to keep the 899 demo below 6k rpms for break-in. This is exactly the low end range that you are asking about. I can say that a well built old school 900ss would stop the dog crap out of the 899 to 6k rpms.... at least that's how my butt dyno perceived it. In my opinion, if you are very used to and love the power of your 900ss, you probably will miss it.
But, the 899 is also different kind of power. Its hard to describe, but it is the best FEELING v-twin I've ever ridden, and I hear that the high end power really makes up for any disappointments in the low end. I think many dealers are doing an 899 demo program. Go ride one and see.
But, the 899 is also different kind of power. Its hard to describe, but it is the best FEELING v-twin I've ever ridden, and I hear that the high end power really makes up for any disappointments in the low end. I think many dealers are doing an 899 demo program. Go ride one and see.