Hello all, I am really close to fulfilling my dream and joining the Ducati family. I will definitely go through the forum as I'm sure I'll have 100 questions down the road. I'm about to buy my first monster, but I can't decide which one I would prefer, therefore, would appreciate any comments or recommendations. I really like the 2014 monster 696+ (I love the look of double exhausts)and they are cheaper to buy and insure but as far as I know, they require more services than newer monsters? The other option is the 2020 monster 797 but it costs more (price+insurance). P.S. Both bikes are second hand with low mileage (797monster with 600miles and 696+ with 2000 miles on the clock) Looking forward to getting your advice on my chosen monster bikes as I'm a bit confused. All the best, Tom from London
Hi newbie Tom While we wait for your decision could you post your rubbish bins as we like them an it keeps me happy Welcome into our mad house
How tall are you @Tomrik25? I don't know about the 797 as I have never ridden one but if you are around 6 foot or more you may find the 696 a little cramped?
Thanks for your reply. At least, someone, take the 'newbies' questions seriously because the bin joke isn't funny for those who just starting and don't understand the joke (I noticed on multiple newbies posts). It's just rude when it's not funny. In my opinion, you should rather give good advice and then joke or keep the joke between the professionals (or cheep jokes between friends and family). I'm a professional in my field and I never treat anyone like this when someone asks me for advice. I'm on the short side but made my decision to go with 797. Thanks a lot and speak with you later. P.S. I know I sound like a complaining D**K but I would rather get a fair opinion than Karen's thought.
Hi Tomrik The newbie section is great way to break the ice for a lot of people coming into a new forum especially shy people and introduce yourself The rubbish bin pictures have been taken on by many newbies with gusto and some amazing contributions, I have to say I was surprised you have taken offence so early on. Here in the newbie section many forum members will be happy to welcome you in You can then explore the forum and post serious questions where needed.
Good luck with the 797 but if you have not signed on the dotted line yet consider a 796 too. Same engine but less restricted by emissions rules and it has a lovely ssa which the others miss out on.
Thank you for your reply, I did consider the 796. I do like the double exhaust and a single-sided swingarm. Do you know anything about belt change and Desmo service for both bikes? I read that 696 and 796 need belt change more often than newer monster 797. I don't remember the exact numbers, but the difference was significant. I think it was 2 years or 2k miles for 696 and 796, but 797 needs the same service in 5 years or 15k miles.
Ducati quote 2 years for belt changes on the older bikes but with my air cooled 2 valve ones I always leave it 4 years and so far so good. On the new bikes like the 797 they are saying 5 years. The Desmo service is at least 10000 on the older bikes I think, maybe even more but check with a dealer or good independent to be sure. Do you have someone in mind for servicing ?
I see, thanks for the advice. Regarding the service, I don't have anyone in mind jet. Firstly I want to choose the right bike.
Hi and welcome. I have an M1100S which is very similar to M696/796 apart from engine size. I am a short arse so no problem with seat height. Bike is super reliable. I do belts every 3 years. Oil and filters 3000miles Desmo service is 7500miles I believe. I hope this is of use.
