All i know about the ducati is gaymanloveisok's spent the most of one summer in the shop
how ever the ninja, all but 2 people i know with them have crashed... it's a bad trend
maybe look at the new honda or the suzuki gladius.
One thing to consider is if you buy the Duc, you will need to bring it to a Ducati technician to get work done. If you buy the Kawi, most shops can work on it, even if they aren't a Kawi shop. Parts are also much easier to get for the Kawi at any shop too.
Well, I really don't care for image, cool factor or to stand out as I ride solo. I'm choosing either bike so that I can enjoy the ride and lower potential mechanical issues! Some good points about crosswinds but I'll look into the mechanic issue.
Only certified level 3 mage Ducatisti mechanismo are allowed to go near Ducati motorcycles
I much perfer my GS500F with the Fairing over my Naked CB400T. For me, once I owned a faired bike, I will never want to go naked again.I've been riding a naked for the last 2 seasons and it's fine up to 140-150 no problem. The added comfort you get from the upright seating (opposed to a supersport) more than makes up for the extra bit of wind.
I have a 696 since '08 and I LOVE it.
For me it comfy on short commutes or longer rides. Like most other bikes the comfort level may decrease depending on how long your ride around, always a good idea to make stops and stretch.
I haven't had any mechanical issues. I get real tired reading that Ducati's are 'mechanically unsound' especially on the newer models. Just maintain your bike with all the basic maintenance required (Duc or Kawi or other makes) it just makes common sense.
The only main complaint I had is it can get hot around the legs in summer which is an easy fix with exhaust wrap positioned there.
It looks good IMO and the sound from the engine and exhaust (ESP if you put on an aftermarket one) is beautiful
Bottom line buy what you can afford(including insurance) and what you feel comfortable on, go sit on the bikes and test ride in the spring.
Good luck.
Thanks for the great comments! Do you have exhaust wrap on your bike? How much did it reduce the heat ? Looks like I'm leaning towards the 696
I haven't put mine on yet (winter project), but from reading other people's fixes it helps. The issue is mostly felt when stopped or in stop and go traffic, basically when your leg has to be down for a longish period. It does help to wear protective pants (leather is best or textile better than jeans) as you won't feel it so much.
I also like the 'customization' one is able to do with the Monster. There are so many OEM and aftermarket items available for these bikes. Downside to that is spending money
Also the 2 year warranty and roadside assistance included are nice extras, even though I never had to use any it was peace of mind, ESP the roadside assistance.
Where did you get that from? Why wouldn't a motorcycle mechanic that doesn't work at a Ducati only shop do work on Ducatis? That's ridiculous.
Well, let's compare.
Clearly, the Ducati has it??????
Clearly, the Ducati has it??????
As far as looks go and looks alone, it all comes down to personal preference, but to me that Monster looks unique and wild, while the Kawasaki in question looks like a cheap plasticky generic bike you see everywhere, everyday.