Congrats on the 999r, Mike. I have an 05 and I love it. I modified mine by adding a full 57mm Ti Termi with PCIII usb and custom dyno map, Gold marchesini forged mag wheels with 6" rear, Surflex slipper clutch, Axis full floaters (front & rear), 520 chain with aluminum rear and light weight front, Sargent seat, adjustable rear sets, some carbon fiber bits and cycle cat covers. I put a vinyl number plate on the front as well to protect the Paint. I've got just over 7K on the clock and the bike just keeps getting faster.
One thing I recommend is some clear guard over the lower front part of the fairings. I wish I had done that immediately. The road debris chips that area badly. I repaint and clear coat that area to protect the CF every Winter. I also use the K&N recharge kit on the DP air filters to keep them flowing well.
Yes, I think the 1098 is a great bike based on what I've read. I haven't seen it in person yet but if it looks as good as the pics and performance is what they say, Ducati has a great new superbike. But, I'm waiting for the R model. I think the R and SPS models are well worth the cost. Look at the specs and hi tech components of the engine in your R.