Red hit it on the head. These bikes are all about weight, or the lack there of and I quote.
Quote:
The pistons have a double-ribbed undercrown to achieve high strength and reduced friction by using minimal piston wall surface area. They use a special crankcase manufacturing technology which reduces weight by an incredible 3kg (6.5lbs).
The vacuum die-cast process ensures consistent and precise wall thickness and increased strength from absolute material purity. The cam covers, Clutch and Generator covers are a magnesium-alloy for weight savings.
The headlamp units used on the 1198 and 1198 S save around 0.5kg (1.2lb)
compared to those used on the 1098. Apart from contributing to the motorcycle’s overall weight saving, this also reduces weight from a crucial
high, frontal area which serves to enhance the overall vehicle handling and
the ‘feel’of the front-end.
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As for the Valves it's really not that difficult, just takes a lot of time to dismantle the bike and then put it back together. Since I live in Kansas I have 4 to 5 months of winter to get it done LOL and now it's only done every 7500 miles. Red you'll enjoy this link on the process.
Ducati Suite- Valve Adjustment
I also ordered one of these since the maintenance warnings can't be erased unless you go to the dealership which there isn't one around here.
Vehicle Diagnostic Scan-Tool Software