This is my first Ducati, so maybe I didn't really know what to expect. I guess I was hoping that the 696 would offer more performance than my last bike. I guess I am also bummed that the parts are SOOO expensive. I didn't expect a new rim to cost $1500.
What was your last bike?
What was your last bike?
And expensive parts? come on, its not like you didnt expect it! ;)
Quote from: He Man on May 29, 2009, 01:23:28 PM
What was your last bike?
And expensive parts? come on, its not like you didnt expect it! ;)
My last bike was a 2007 Suzuki Bandit 650S.
Yes, I expected the parts to be more expensive, but not that expensive.
From signature:
Quote
Cathy
First bike: 2007 Bandit 650S
just a thought
www.ducatimonster.org/forums/parts-sale/190405-696-front-rear-rims-tires.html (//http://)
still has a rear rim.
Quote from: RC Fan on May 29, 2009, 01:14:12 PMI guess I am also bummed that the parts are SOOO expensive. I didn't expect a new rim to cost $1500.
For future reference, if you're looking to buy something and see a variation of the following symbol, it's not a bad idea to prepare to open the wallet a bit more:
(http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk23/Jerseygirl1126/italian.jpg)
The good news is that that symbol adorns some very pretty items.
I had a 696 for a year. 10000 miles. handling was really good. A little short in the cockpit for me, not the best for 2 up. The engine is great in the city, lacks the top end for the highways. IMO. Personally, I think for the money the Street and Speed Triple are better performing bikes and the position is better IMO.
I think I am in the same boat as you. When I did my research for a sportbike the 696 best fit me the best physically (height, arm reach, etc.) but now that I've put about 2000 miles on her....I think I may sell her. :'(
Quote from: rose_guy on May 29, 2009, 01:56:21 PM
just a thought
www.ducatimonster.org/forums/parts-sale/190405-696-front-rear-rims-tires.html (//http://) (//http://) (//http://)
still has a rear rim.
Thanks for the thought, but it is the front rim that I need.
Quote from: Spicoli on May 29, 2009, 02:10:12 PM
I had a 696 for a year. 10000 miles. handling was really good. A little short in the cockpit for me, not the best for 2 up. The engine is great in the city, lacks the top end for the highways. IMO. Personally, I think for the money the Street and Speed Triple are better performing bikes and the position is better IMO.
A Street Triple would be great. Likely the Speed Triple is more than I need, but it is gorgeous. Unfortunately there is no Triumph dealer nearby.
I know rims are expensive - is there any way you can make an insurance claim to cover some or all of the cost? Or is it purely out-of-pocket for you?
I think more than anything, the difference between a 696 and a sv650s isn't enough to knock your ass off.
a little more HP (72 to 80) and torque (47 to 50), a little lighter (370 to 359).
Pretty much same length, same wheelbase, rake slightly different (25 to 24), trail little shorter, (102mm to 87mm). So should handle a little quicker, and get up and go quicker, but power-wise, not much that the butt dyno would notice I think.
well, there's also the thing that you're on a duc not a suzi.
Quote from: bluemoco on May 29, 2009, 02:25:27 PM
I know rims are expensive - is there any way you can make an insurance claim to cover some or all of the cost? Or is it purely out-of-pocket for you?
I may make a claim, but I am not sure yet. I would rather not.
Quote from: Privateer on May 29, 2009, 02:27:52 PM
I think more than anything, the difference between a 696 and a sv650s isn't enough to knock your ass off.
a little more HP (72 to 80) and torque (47 to 50), a little lighter (370 to 359).
Pretty much same length, same wheelbase, rake slightly different (25 to 24), trail little shorter, (102mm to 87mm). So should handle a little quicker, and get up and go quicker, but power-wise, not much that the butt dyno would notice I think.
well, there's also the thing that you're on a duc not a suzi.
My first bike was Bandit 650S (GSF650), not an SV.
Yeah, the SV Bandit (same thing... :-\) and the smaller Monster's are pretty much the same bike with the exception of the coolness factor. Parts are expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save on parts. You just have to hunt a little bit. I didn't really like the 696 when it came out, but then again I didn't buy one.
Quote from: Chchadder on May 29, 2009, 02:34:44 PM
Yeah, the SV and the smaller Monster's are pretty much the same bike with the exception of the coolness factor. Parts are expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save on parts. You just have to hunt a little bit. I didn't really like the 696 when it came out, but then again I didn't buy one.
I had a Bandit (inline 4), not an SV.
I looked for a front rim online, but didn't have any luck.
Yep, made the same mistake as Privateer in that post. Where's my reading glasses?!? [coffee]
Quote from: Chchadder on May 29, 2009, 02:38:54 PM
Yep, made the same mistake as Privateer in that post. Where's my reading glasses?!? [coffee]
We all make mistakes. I, for instance, have bought the wrong bike twice now, despite doing a fair amount of research. [bang]
Bring the 696 [thumbsup] to the track..youll like it.
Quote from: RC Fan on May 29, 2009, 02:43:24 PM
We all make mistakes. I, for instance, have bought the wrong bike twice now, despite doing a fair amount of research. [bang]
Yeah, should've gone up in displacement. See if you can test an 1100, or a used S2R.
I have to replace the front rim on my s2r1k from a crash. $1500 for a new OEM one. I watched eBay for almost 2 months before I was able to snag one. I wound up getting a used set, in white, for $599. I'm gonna resell the good rear and the dented front soon.
Apparently in other, strange foreign countries, the Bandit 650 is like a GSX 650 Katana here. Probably more HP, less torque, a bit more weight and faster than the 696. I did a double take when I saw the 650 Bandit description.
Quote from: corndog67 on May 29, 2009, 04:00:17 PM
Apparently in other, strange foreign countries, the Bandit 650 is like a GSX 650 Katana here. Probably more HP, less torque, a bit more weight and faster than the 696. I did a double take when I saw the 650 Bandit description.
Yes, the Bandit 650 is now the GSX650F. The fuel injected, liquid cooled Bandit 650 was only available in Canada for the model year of 2007.
Quote from: RC Fan on May 29, 2009, 02:32:36 PM
My first bike was Bandit 650S (GSF650), not an SV.
bah
my bad, sorry.
I can't find enough info on the bandit to post a reasonable comparison
Quote from: Privateer on May 29, 2009, 04:20:06 PM
bah
my bad, sorry.
I can't find enough info on the bandit to post a reasonable comparison
No worries. The specs on the current GSX650F are pretty much identical to the Bandit 650. I believe it was about 85 horses, the torque was around 60, and the dry weight was around 483lbs. I naively assumed that because the hp was close, and the Monster was a lot lighter, that the Monster would perform better.
RC Fan -
1) eBay/ DMF parts forum for a new front wheel. I see the Brembo 3-spokes in black, gray, and gold all the time and they don't usually go for much. The 3 spoke wheels are notoriously heavy and people often like to upgrade them to something lighter. Seriously if you can't find any of these you aren't looking hard enough. If you are only looking for 696 front wheels you might expand your search to include 620/695/750/800/1000 wheels from earlier Monsters, and wheels from Supersports, S4, and maybe 749/999. Nobody but nobody should have to resort to paying the dealer an outrageous amount of cash for a new part that so many other people instantly upgrade and throw up for sale at hundreds less. I got a set of brand new OEM mufflers for $50 that was taken off a new bike when the dealer price was in excess of $800 for each one. Used parts are your friend, just make sure they are ship-shape.
2) Use your misfortune as an excuse for an upgrade. For a modest amount more than $1500 for just one rim you can get a set of much lighter wheels that will make the bike perform more in line with your expectations. Wheels make a big difference. Check what the dealer wants for a set of the upgraded 696 wheels.
After test riding a 696 in stock trim I thought it was a competent bike ready for some upgrades. One cannot really say it's gutless, but you really need the Termi kit and some lightweight wheels to make it just right. Those things were made with subsequent Termi upgrading in mind. A rear sprocket with 2 or 3 more teeth would help as well. Good luck, I hope you don't end up paying $1500 for a front wheel.
There's definetly things you can do to get more juice out of your bike, like mentioned the Termi kit, sproket changes, etc.
or just trade in for street triple r..... damn im preaching that pretty heavily arent i? :)
It should be mentioned that there are reputable places out there that do rim repair for around $150. Do a search, I'm feeling lazy.
its not just you the bike is weak, its like a scooter that looks cool, a 695 was my first and im like wtf is this? bike was terrible on the hwy so i sold it and bought an 08 speed triple, get something with POWER so its always there when you want it...
I know I am a minority here on the Ducati Monster Forum, but I like my 696.
Quote from: He Man on May 29, 2009, 10:36:39 PM
or just trade in for street triple r..... damn im preaching that pretty heavily arent i? :)
A Street Triple R would be awesome. The seat height may be an issue though. Are there lowering kits available?
I've got a 695 front wheel. Slightly damaged, but just cosmetic and not really noticeable. I'll sell it to you for $100 plus shipping.
Not to threadjack, but I've also got the rear in near perfect condition... ;D
Photos of back tires from "need more power" set please. kthx.
How much of a hit do you think I would take if I decided to sell? The bike has about 80 kms on it, 19 of which were on it before delivery.
Definitely don't trade it in if you want to get your money out of it. I was talking to the guys at the dealers who were amazed at what I got out of my 695, as new 696 owners were trading theirs back in and getting less than $6k with only a few hundred miles on them.
Quote from: RC Fan on May 30, 2009, 08:38:45 AM
How much of a hit do you think I would take if I decided to sell? The bike has about 80 kms on it, 19 of which were on it before delivery.
Er......you're not even past the break in period. I'm not sure you can even be remotely using that thing to it's full potential....
Quote from: RC Fan on May 30, 2009, 04:23:18 AM
A Street Triple R would be awesome. The seat height may be an issue though. Are there lowering kits available?
Going from a bike with 70 hp or so to one with an actual 109 at the wheel is a big jump. Since your first bike was an 07, I'm going to assume that you've been riding, at the most, about 2 years? That Triumph is a butt load faster than the Suzook. Maybe you should ride one before you buy.
And you'll take a big hit on money if you trade that 696 in. Even if you sell it, probably at least 30%.
Quote from: corndog67 on May 30, 2009, 09:36:50 AM
Going from a bike with 70 hp or so to one with an actual 109 at the wheel is a big jump. Since your first bike was an 07, I'm going to assume that you've been riding, at the most, about 2 years? That Triumph is a butt load faster than the Suzook. Maybe you should ride one before you buy.
Street Triple R won't hit 109 at the wheel. It's 107 at the crank, so figure low to mid 90's at the wheel. My 09 Daytona hits 109.25 at the wheel from 126 at the crank. Maybe you're thinking Speed Triple.
http://triumph.co.uk/usa/Triumph%20Street%20Triple%20R_10161.aspx (http://triumph.co.uk/usa/Triumph%20Street%20Triple%20R_10161.aspx)
I just traded up from a highly performance modded 695 that I rode for almost three years before getting the Daytona a few weeks ago. Now I loved my Monster, but the Daytona is just a friggin blast!
I don't think that you'll be too far pressed experience-wise to go to the street triple R. Sure it's got a lot more power, but the delivery of it is completely different from the Monster. Of course the ST-R is a bit different from my Daytona, but what I get is this: Brutally smooth linear power delivery, flawless shifting, amazing braking, and elegant suspension.
As for your height question earlier, HeMan is about 5'6" (right?) and he can get both feet down on the floor of the ST-R, and tippy toe on my Daytona (with regular heeled boots). The R also has adjustable ride height built in, so it can be lowered pretty easily IIRC. The suspension is pretty much the same as my Daytona, just set more for street than track off the showroom floor.
Definitely try to get a test-ride if you can, but at least go sit on the ST-R and see how it feels. I'm a convert!
Quote from: corndog67 on May 30, 2009, 09:36:50 AM
Going from a bike with 70 hp or so to one with an actual 109 at the wheel is a big jump. Since your first bike was an 07, I'm going to assume that you've been riding, at the most, about 2 years? That Triumph is a butt load faster than the Suzook. Maybe you should ride one before you buy.
And you'll take a big hit on money if you trade that 696 in. Even if you sell it, probably at least 30%.
I am not concerned about getting in trouble with the extra power, but a test-drive would be great. It would have to be a used bike though, as no one allows test drives here.
Quote from: Chchadder on May 30, 2009, 09:55:33 AM
Street Triple R won't hit 109 at the wheel. It's 107 at the crank, so figure low to mid 90's at the wheel. My 09 Daytona hits 109.25 at the wheel from 126 at the crank. Maybe you're thinking Speed Triple.
http://triumph.co.uk/usa/Triumph%20Street%20Triple%20R_10161.aspx (http://triumph.co.uk/usa/Triumph%20Street%20Triple%20R_10161.aspx)
I just traded up from a highly performance modded 695 that I rode for almost three years before getting the Daytona a few weeks ago. Now I loved my Monster, but the Daytona is just a friggin blast!
I don't think that you'll be too far pressed experience-wise to go to the street triple R. Sure it's got a lot more power, but the delivery of it is completely different from the Monster. Of course the ST-R is a bit different from my Daytona, but what I get is this: Brutally smooth linear power delivery, flawless shifting, amazing braking, and elegant suspension.
As for your height question earlier, HeMan is about 5'6" (right?) and he can get both feet down on the floor of the ST-R, and tippy toe on my Daytona (with regular heeled boots). The R also has adjustable ride height built in, so it can be lowered pretty easily IIRC. The suspension is pretty much the same as my Daytona, just set more for street than track off the showroom floor.
Definitely try to get a test-ride if you can, but at least go sit on the ST-R and see how it feels. I'm a convert!
Thanks for the info. I will definitely be on the look-out for a Street Triple.
Quote from: craigo on May 30, 2009, 08:22:32 AM
Photos of back tires from "need more power" set please. kthx.
+1
granted, just because it says ducati on the tank, er, skin... doesn't mean it's supposed to be a superbike.
that said, it's not like the base monsters are slow.
a rebel 250 is slow :D
Quote from: teddy037.2 on May 30, 2009, 02:32:46 PM
+1
granted, just because it says ducati on the tank, er, skin... doesn't mean it's supposed to be a superbike.
that said, it's not like the base monsters are slow.
a rebel 250 is slow :D
I wasn't expecting a superbike. I was expecting better performance than from my Bandit, as the Monster is much lighter, and the specs are otherwise similar.
Quote from: RC Fan on May 30, 2009, 02:41:39 PM
I wasn't expecting a superbike. I was expecting better performance than from my Bandit, as the Monster is much lighter, and the specs are otherwise similar.
It will have a ton of extra performance once its broke in, I doubt you have even come close to its limits unless your last name is Stoner! Remember it more fun riding a slow b.....Nevermind get a Busa!
since day one
sorry, nothing to contribute here
Quote from: RC Fan on May 30, 2009, 12:03:19 PM
I am not concerned about getting in trouble with the extra power, but a test-drive would be great. It would have to be a used bike though, as no one allows test drives here.
not sure where you're at, but we've had two visits locally from the Triumph demo truck. Maybe look into that?
as for the 696... is it just power it's lacking compared to your last bike? My major complaint with the entry level monsters is the poor suspension spec. I can almost forgive them for non-adjustable forks.. but to be so horribly undersprung is a severe lack of foresight. I tell my buddies on japanese bikes and they think I'm on drugs when I say I need my forks re-sprung.
It'd be a shame to walk away from a brand new bike and lose so much value from it before exploiting all its possibilities.
I took a 696 out for a ride on our track and although its not a 'trackday' ride but more of a spirited street ride, I felt the monster handled great for me and was fun to just lay on the throttle the whole time [moto]. Give it some time and it will grow on you for sure.
quick question, did you err, test ride a 696 before you bought one? surely it can't be that much of a suprise if so.
and does the 696 have an exhaust (termis etc) and an DP ECU? or is it still stock as a rock.
Quote from: craigo on May 31, 2009, 05:20:59 AM
quick question, did you err, test ride a 696 before you bought one? surely it can't be that much of a suprise if so.
and does the 696 have an exhaust (termis etc) and an DP ECU? or is it still stock as a rock.
No, I was not able to test ride the bike, as the dealers here do not allow it. I do suspect the dealer let someone test ride my pre-ordered bike though, as there were 19 kms on it at delivery.
The bike is stock. I can't imagine feeling like spending the money for the Termis after I shell out $1500 for a new rim.
The 696 is an awesome package. You really think 20 hp is going to quell your moto lust? I think your going to be chasing new bike dreams for a long time.
Two words:
Sprocket Change. [beer]
Quote from: RC Fan on May 31, 2009, 05:28:45 AM
No, I was not able to test ride the bike, as the dealers here do not allow it. I do suspect the dealer let someone test ride my pre-ordered bike though, as there were 19 kms on it at delivery.
The bike is stock. I can't imagine feeling like spending the money for the Termis after I shell out $1500 for a new rim.
more likely that it was test driven after set up by the mechanic...
SO you hate the bike because you need a new wheel? What did you do to break it? Sounds to me it's the rider, not the bike, that is the problem. :-X
I didn't like the bike at first, either. But after the break-in period, things got smoother and began to synch better.
The 14T sprocket is a good thing to put on. I also have the DP kit.
Look, the Monster's don't ride like a touring bike. Your body will be absorbing all the bumps and cracks in the road, not the suspension. [bang] That's why I am so envious of my friend's KLR. Yeah, it's a thumper and no speed demon, but there is a lot to be said for comfort!
I don't know where you are, but I had a big dent in my front a while back... Here is a post I did on another forum when it happened:
http://www.ducati.ms/forums/showthread.php?t=49531&highlight=rim (http://www.ducati.ms/forums/showthread.php?t=49531&highlight=rim)
Hope it helps.
BTW, I like my 696. I have had all sorts of bikes from YZF1000 to 95 900SS/SP to a 57 Triumph T110 Chopper to a 2001 Confederate Hellcat. Quite honesty, I use my bike mainly for commuting so 5500 of my 7000 miles are freeway to and from work. The rest have been fun miles and 2 up and it still does the job just fine. It goes when and where I want it to. It stops when I tell it to. It turns where I tell it to. I don't do time at the track, I do time on the street. Since the speed limits are posted at 65 MPH, I don't really care if my bike doesn't do over 130. If I did, I would have a superbike. I dig the mileage I get. I dig the riding position. I dig the looks people give me and the looks on people's faces when I say I have a Ducati. Its a good time riding it. I don't know how long you have been riding or what your level of riding is, but I'm pretty sure you aren't running the 696 to its full potential - I know I'm not.
Change your front sprocket, change the seat, get the Termi's. Or don't. Its really personal opinion and if its just not doing it for you, upgrade.
I reallly like mine [thumbsup]
Quote from: herm on May 31, 2009, 07:47:24 PM
more likely that it was test driven after set up by the mechanic...
That is certainly possible, I just didn't think it would be a 19 km test drive.
Quote from: Craig Thomas on May 31, 2009, 08:07:11 PM
SO you hate the bike because you need a new wheel? What did you do to break it? Sounds to me it's the rider, not the bike, that is the problem. :-X
I didn't like the bike at first, either. But after the break-in period, things got smoother and began to synch better.
The 14T sprocket is a good thing to put on. I also have the DP kit.
Look, the Monster's don't ride like a touring bike. Your body will be absorbing all the bumps and cracks in the road, not the suspension. [bang] That's why I am so envious of my friend's KLR. Yeah, it's a thumper and no speed demon, but there is a lot to be said for comfort!
I hit a pothole on my very first trip out. It is turning out to be an expensive mistake.
I didn't have any issues with the suspension. I want a sportbike, not a touring bike, so I realize it won't be cushy.
Quote from: sroberts152 on June 01, 2009, 12:01:05 AM
I don't know where you are, but I had a big dent in my front a while back... Here is a post I did on another forum when it happened:
http://www.ducati.ms/forums/showthread.php?t=49531&highlight=rim (http://www.ducati.ms/forums/showthread.php?t=49531&highlight=rim)
Hope it helps.
BTW, I like my 696. I have had all sorts of bikes from YZF1000 to 95 900SS/SP to a 57 Triumph T110 Chopper to a 2001 Confederate Hellcat. Quite honesty, I use my bike mainly for commuting so 5500 of my 7000 miles are freeway to and from work. The rest have been fun miles and 2 up and it still does the job just fine. It goes when and where I want it to. It stops when I tell it to. It turns where I tell it to. I don't do time at the track, I do time on the street. Since the speed limits are posted at 65 MPH, I don't really care if my bike doesn't do over 130. If I did, I would have a superbike. I dig the mileage I get. I dig the riding position. I dig the looks people give me and the looks on people's faces when I say I have a Ducati. Its a good time riding it. I don't know how long you have been riding or what your level of riding is, but I'm pretty sure you aren't running the 696 to its full potential - I know I'm not.
Change your front sprocket, change the seat, get the Termi's. Or don't. Its really personal opinion and if its just not doing it for you, upgrade.
Thanks for the info! My rim was cracked as well, so I don't know if repair is an option.
Quote from: RC Fan on May 31, 2009, 05:28:45 AM
No, I was not able to test ride the bike, as the dealers here do not allow it.
I'm genuinely shocked! If I walked into a dealer that didnt allow me a test ride, me and my money would go shopping some other place. Astounding.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 01, 2009, 02:25:22 AM
That is certainly possible, I just didn't think it would be a 19 km test drive.
why not? far more likely that the tech put 12 miles on it than someone taking it for that short of a test ride.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 01, 2009, 02:25:22 AM
That is certainly possible, I just didn't think it would be a 19 km test drive.
Most new vehicles have some mileage on them before. Your 696 visited a dyno after assembly. That plus a test ride at the dealer can add up to your 19 km.
Quote from: RC Fan on May 29, 2009, 01:14:12 PM
This is my first Ducati, so maybe I didn't really know what to expect. I guess I was hoping that the 696 would offer more performance than my last bike. I guess I am also bummed that the parts are SOOO expensive. I didn't expect a new rim to cost $1500.
pony up another $1500 and get some BST's and you'll have a brand new bike.
just watch the potholes...
I gotta say I really enjoy mine, and I think I like it a little more every time I ride, even if it's just a short trip into town. I am surprised that somebody would spring for over 10k (us) for a motorcycle without doing a little research and preparing for the related costs. You could have spent 3/4 of that on an R1 (R6 is what I meant) or something and gotten all the power you need and cheaper maintenance...
Of course I bought a Ducati because that is what "spoke to me". And it feels like my bike when I'm on it.
I hope you can get that rim repaired or replaced, and you can at least ride out the break-in period before you decide to dump it for a huge loss.
Quote from: ungeheuer on June 01, 2009, 03:22:57 AM
I'm genuinely shocked! If I walked into a dealer that didnt allow me a test ride, me and my money would go shopping some other place. Astounding.
In hindsight, walking away would have been an excellent idea. None of the dealers here allow test rides.
Quote from: MonsterMI on June 01, 2009, 09:10:28 AM
I gotta say I really enjoy mine, and I think I like it a little more every time I ride, even if it's just a short trip into town. I am surprised that somebody would spring for over 10k (us) for a motorcycle without doing a little research and preparing for the related costs. You could have spent 3/4 of that on an R1 (R6 is what I meant) or something and gotten all the power you need and cheaper maintenance...
Of course I bought a Ducati because that is what "spoke to me". And it feels like my bike when I'm on it.
I hope you can get that rim repaired or replaced, and you can at least ride out the break-in period before you decide to dump it for a huge loss.
I actually did lots of research, but I didn't price the rims. I really didn't see myself replacing one.
An R6 is a couple of grand more than the Monster here. You are correct though, a Japanese bike would have fit the ticket. I was impressed with the Ducati because it is the only sport bike for which I wouldn't need a lowering kit. Also the salesperson promised it would have more power than my Bandit.
I dig the snit out of my 696, and i weigh 220lbs.
+1 to the "power comes after break in" it's tame below 6k RPM 7k+ is like a turbo boost.
I LOVE MY 696 MONSTER [moto] [thumbsup] !!!! SATISFIED TO THE FULLEST [beer] !! YOU HAVE TO BREAK IT IN TO REALLY FEEL THE POWER POTENTIAL BECAUSE THE VALVES OF A DUCATI IS VERY DIFFERENT FROM YOUR 650VS/BANDIT . TRIUMPH IS PRETTY EXPENSIVE , TOO . I THINK ANY EURO-BIKE IS . BUY JAPANESE IF YOU WANT LOW COSTS . HOW DID YOU MESS UP YOUR RIMS BY RUNNING OVER A POT HOLE ?? I LIVE IN A CITY WITH PLENTY OF POTHOLES AND I RUN OVER [bang]THEM 7-10 TIMES A DAY WITH NO PROBLEMS YET . WELL , GOODLUCK IN FIXING YOUR PROBLEM . I LOVE MY 696 MONSTER [moto] [thumbsup] !! NEXT BIKE - KAWASAKI ZX6R and HARLEY-DAVIDSON NIGHTSTER . [beer]
Quote from: Chchadder on May 30, 2009, 07:08:40 AM
I've got a 695 front wheel. Slightly damaged, but just cosmetic and not really noticeable. I'll sell it to you for $100 plus shipping.
Not to threadjack, but I've also got the rear in near perfect condition... ;D
Shameless bump for those in need... ;D
Pretty sure that the wheels on the 695/696 are interchangeable. Anyone know for sure?
Pics:
(http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd198/Chchadder/P8014320.jpg)
(http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd198/Chchadder/P8014323.jpg)
(http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd198/Chchadder/P8014324.jpg)
(http://i227.photobucket.com/albums/dd198/Chchadder/P8014325.jpg)
The scrapes and lip bend are from a low speed crash in November of 2006. Does not affect function in any way, as I still rode them for another two seasons until I swapped to some forged alum Dymags. Just saying, you can get yourself back on the road pretty cheaply until you decide what exactly you want to do. I'd go as low as $75 for the front (plus shipping) to help you out.
WHat do you want out of a bike anyway?
If in hindsight an R6 fits your riding more than a 696 does, then i dont know how you even ended up on a 696. Its not even close to what an R6 is, and if you paid any attention, you would of realized that 696 is in no way the same kind of power as a 600cc jap I4. If you bought it because of the brand, well. thats kind of stupid, but thats not ducati's fault for giving you a bike thats "underpowered".
Im stll for a Street triple R. :) Its +20hp and -15tq and + 4,000RPMs wanna buy my S2R1000? its 84hp 64tq with a dyno sheet to proove. Its got enough hp to drop a knee on :)
Quote from: He Man on June 01, 2009, 08:16:54 PM
wanna buy my S2R1000? its 84hp 64tq with a dyno sheet to proove. Its got enough hp to drop a knee on :)
I can vouch for both... 8)
Quote from: ENZO696DUCMON on June 01, 2009, 07:26:31 PM
I LOVE MY 696 MONSTER [moto] [thumbsup] !!!! SATISFIED TO THE FULLEST [beer] !! YOU HAVE TO BREAK IT IN TO REALLY FEEL THE POWER POTENTIAL BECAUSE THE VALVES OF A DUCATI IS VERY DIFFERENT FROM YOUR 650VS/BANDIT . TRIUMPH IS PRETTY EXPENSIVE , TOO . I THINK ANY EURO-BIKE IS . BUY JAPANESE IF YOU WANT LOW COSTS . HOW DID YOU MESS UP YOUR RIMS BY RUNNING OVER A POT HOLE ?? I LIVE IN A CITY WITH PLENTY OF POTHOLES AND I RUN OVER [bang]THEM 7-10 TIMES A DAY WITH NO PROBLEMS YET . WELL , GOODLUCK IN FIXING YOUR PROBLEM . I LOVE MY 696 MONSTER [moto] [thumbsup] !! NEXT BIKE - KAWASAKI ZX6R and HARLEY-DAVIDSON NIGHTSTER . [beer]
All I did was hit a pothole, so watch out.
Quote from: He Man on June 01, 2009, 08:16:54 PM
WHat do you want out of a bike anyway?
If in hindsight an R6 fits your riding more than a 696 does, then i dont know how you even ended up on a 696. Its not even close to what an R6 is, and if you paid any attention, you would of realized that 696 is in no way the same kind of power as a 600cc jap I4. If you bought it because of the brand, well. thats kind of stupid, but thats not ducati's fault for giving you a bike thats "underpowered".
Im stll for a Street triple R. :) Its +20hp and -15tq and + 4,000RPMs wanna buy my S2R1000? its 84hp 64tq with a dyno sheet to proove. Its got enough hp to drop a knee on :)
I don't want an R6; I was responding to a previous poster who mentioned one. I would like a GSX-R 750 someday. I bought a Ducati because the 696 was light and was the right height.
I am still with you on the Speed Triple or Street Triple.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 02, 2009, 02:23:30 AM
All I did was hit a pothole, so watch out.
No-one seems to have raised this, so here goes:
Rims bend after the suspension bottoms out. When there is no suspension left to absorb the hit, the tyre deforms, and then it is either the rim bends or the bike gets thrown upwards, or both.
I've had a brief ride on a 696 and thought the front end very soft. Not at all surprised a rim got damaged, if a pothole was hit hard. No suspension will absorb every hit, but the 696 may well be particularly vulnerable here.
Ducati might have specced better quality (as in, lighter) wheels than the entry-level suspension can handle on poor roads.
Quote from: Moronic on June 02, 2009, 12:21:41 PM
Ducati might have specced better quality (as in, lighter) wheels than the entry-level suspension can handle on poor roads.
Funny, being that everyone else is saying that the 696 wheels are too heavy.
Well, I wouldn't be rushing to put BSTs on one.
Quote from: zedsaid on June 02, 2009, 12:33:35 PM
Funny, being that everyone else is saying that the 696 wheels are too heavy.
that's relative, chief. they are too heavy, when you compare to the super light forged wheels, or cf wheels.
they are light when you compare them to a big set of cruiser or touring bike wheels.
the suspension on ducatis are often sprung quite lightly for the emaciated test rider at the factory. its not that often that somebody can simply jump on a bike and the sag be correct from the factory. you've gotta adjust that preload, and if that's not doing it, time for a respring.
maybe they should feed those guys more pasta......
chief?
chief, buddy, pal, friend, guy. jokes.
Endless Canadian Argument (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5uzJVkeaUI#lq-lq2-hq-vhq)
Better than squaw, I suppose. How about Medicine Man.
Quote from: ato memphis on June 02, 2009, 05:13:21 PM
chief, buddy, pal, friend, guy. jokes.
I prefer "Gaylord" - per Dane Cook
I think no matter what bike I bought, there would be some regret for not choosing something else.
Currently, I like the BMW adventure bikes. More $$$, but are quite comfortable, and can go anywhere and still have decent road manners.
The 696 is a really fun bike, but I've learned not to get attached...there are so many other rides out there.
But at this point, if I sold the M696, it could maybe fetch $8,000 PP, and $6,000 on a trade in.
[coffee]
Quote from: craigo on May 30, 2009, 08:22:32 AM
Photos of back tires from "need more power" set please. kthx.
Whats up?
(http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a110/GreenLanternLCD/FirstTrackDay30.jpg)
And referring to the OP its understandable to be underwhelmed by the 696 going from the bike you had previously. I had a 695 before my current bike. My 2 cents is not to spend the money on termis and performance mods trying to turn the bike into something it is not. The 696 is not a performance machine, or a race bike. In my eyes it is something to tool around on locally, through the city, commute on and occasionally take to the track. Of course they are fun to throw around the track since they are so light and nimble. Now don't got me wrong i loved my 695 and wish i still had it because it was a blast to ride around town and commute on. I don't know what type of riding you do and i would suggest getting it into some twisties roads for a bit. Something about tossing a monster around just seemed so easy, i could take a lot of corners perfectly on that bike and at the limits of traction with my knee down.
If you want something with more UMPH i agree with heman and that you should be looking at the street triple, i think thats the bike. Or even a monster 1100 or a leftover monster 1000 from 08 or 07. This is if you want to stay in the naked class.
Quote from: RC Fan on May 30, 2009, 08:38:45 AM
The bike has about 80 kms on it, 19 of which were on it before delivery.
Just curious, but how do you know you don't like the 696...it seems you've only ridden it 61 km (38 miles). ???
That is an absurdly low distance to determine a bike sucks.
Quote from: GLantern on June 03, 2009, 11:20:34 AM
Whats up?
And referring to the OP its understandable to be underwhelmed by the 696 going from the bike you had previously. I had a 695 before my current bike. My 2 cents is not to spend the money on termis and performance mods trying to turn the bike into something it is not. The 696 is not a performance machine, or a race bike. In my eyes it is something to tool around on locally, through the city, commute on and occasionally take to the track. Of course they are fun to throw around the track since they are so light and nimble. Now don't got me wrong i loved my 695 and wish i still had it because it was a blast to ride around town and commute on. I don't know what type of riding you do and i would suggest getting it into some twisties roads for a bit. Something about tossing a monster around just seemed so easy, i could take a lot of corners perfectly on that bike and at the limits of traction with my knee down.
If you want something with more UMPH i agree with heman and that you should be looking at the street triple, i think thats the bike. Or even a monster 1100 or a leftover monster 1000 from 08 or 07. This is if you want to stay in the naked class.
Not putting more money into it sounds like good advice. The Street Triple also sounds like a good bike.
Quote from: Triple J on June 03, 2009, 11:41:14 AM
Just curious, but how do you know you don't like the 696...it seems you've only ridden it 61 km (38 miles). ???
That is an absurdly low distance to determine a bike sucks.
There are a lot of things about the bike that have combined to make me dislike it. I was promised a lot, and have found myself disappointed in the quality and performance of the bike, as well as the cost of stock replacement parts. $1500 for a rim is crazy.
there's no issues with quality - the fit and finish on the 696 is top notch; if you don't like the performance so be it.
People bend rims on motorcycles all the time - not just on Ducatis. $1500 for a Brembo/Marchesini wheel is pretty normal. These bikes are Italian, as are their parts. To think parts for a marquee brand motorcycle, where the parts come from Italy, would be cheap is crazy.
I don't understand what you were promised that hasn't happened, but in a mere 38 miles, you've not even put a tank of gas through it yet. That's crazy.
Quote from: ato memphis on June 03, 2009, 12:19:25 PM
I don't understand what you were promised that hasn't happened, but in a mere 38 miles, you've not even put a tank of gas through it yet. That's crazy.
+1.
I have 30K on my monster. I am nowhere near hitting it's capabilities.
You aren't even far into the powerband until it's broken in. You're basically setting the bike up for failure.
I do agree that 38miles is absolutely nothing you haven't even been on a proper turn with the bike yet. Give it a chance then sell it if it isn't what you are looking for there are options out there. Like i said before taking a monster to some twisty roads is an experience in itself. My ride home from the dealer was about 35miles and it was highway. I doubt i got a good idea of what both of my bikes were capable of from that short ride. Also your bike isn't even broken in which is when the real fun starts. I noticed a difference in response, power etc. once i broke the bike in and had the 600mile service performed.
Try these things then if it still doesn't float your boat like i said before there are other bikes with more UMPH!
Sorry the bike didn't turn out to be exactly what you expected. If performance (power) was what you were looking for, perhaps you did make an mistake in picking the 696. it might be that the 696 is not just the wrong bike, but the wrong TYPE of bike for you. Not to mention the little accident you had right off the bat (bend rim) and the consequent trouble/expnese you now need to go thru to fix it. That initial bad experience can kill any good feeling that you otherwise might have.
I think you are at loss here... Your best bet might to find a used rim to replace your bend rim; hold on to it and properly break in the bike. Perhaps one day you will learn to appreciate the bike for what it's intended to do. Or perhaps you will find greener pasture with a different bike/brand.
Quote from: Goat_Herder on June 03, 2009, 12:44:45 PM
Sorry the bike didn't turn out to be exactly what you expected. If performance (power) was what you were looking for, perhaps you did make an mistake in picking the 696. it might be that the 696 is not just the wrong bike, but the wrong TYPE of bike for you. Not to mention the little accident you had right off the bat (bend rim) and the consequent trouble/expnese you now need to go thru to fix it. That initial bad experience can kill any good feeling that you otherwise might have.
I think you are at loss here... Your best bet might to find a used rim to replace your bend rim; hold on to it and properly break in the bike. Perhaps one day you will learn to appreciate the bike for what it's intended to do. And perhaps you will find greener pasture with a different bike/brand.
You make some good points, and yes, it was my mistake. Next time I will take what the salesman says with a grain of salt. Next time I will take a test ride first!
Quote from: RC Fan on June 03, 2009, 12:07:29 PM
There are a lot of things about the bike that have combined to make me dislike it. I was promised a lot, and have found myself disappointed in the quality and performance of the bike, as well as the cost of stock replacement parts. $1500 for a rim is crazy.
Agreed that $1,500 is crazy...but someone here offered you a used one for $100 (if it fits). What's the problem? ??? Even if it's the wrong color, you're only out $200 after powdercoating it.
For comparison, what's an OEM rim for a CBR1000RR run?
I'm not sure what you were promised, but I can guarantee that after 38 miles you still don't know the bike's capabilities. Stock replacement parts are always expensive...that's why we all buy aftermarket. Ducati is a motorcycle manufacturer, not a parts supplier.
Anyway, I don't care if you don't like the bike. It just seems weird that you could have made that decision after a mere 38 miles. Shit...that's a ride to and from the dealer for me.
Quote from: Triple J on June 03, 2009, 01:04:50 PM
Agreed that $1,500 is crazy...but someone here offered you a used one for $100 (if it fits). What's the problem? ??? Even if it's the wrong color, you're only out $200 after powdercoating it.
For comparison, what's an OEM rim for a CBR1000RR run?
I'm not sure what you were promised, but I can guarantee that after 38 miles you still don't know the bike's capabilities. Stock replacement parts are always expensive...that's why we all buy aftermarket. Ducati is a motorcycle manufacturer, not a parts supplier.
Anyway, I don't care if you don't like the bike. It just seems weird that you could have made that decision after a mere 38 miles. Shit...that's a ride to and from the dealer for me.
The stock rim was already ordered, so while it has not been delivered, I assume I am on the hook for that already. Again, my mistake. I do appreciate that someone here offered to hook me up with a rim for a great price. Again, lesson learned.
I am not sure what the CBR1000RR rim would be, but I looked up a CBR600RR rim and it was around $500 US.
As far as performance, I expected more performance than my previous bike offered. Again, this is my mistake expecting an air-cooled twin to compete with a liquid-cooled inline 4.
I certainly understand that I have judged the bike rather quickly and perhaps unfairly. I do appreciate the advice that everyone on this thread has offered.
Get it up and running and take it on a nice long ride on some scenic twisty roads. Monsters aren't that fun on the highway. No naked bike is. (Took me 2800 mi to fully understand this) The air cooled motor has a great torquey feeling, but you'll need to get past the first service to have any fun.
Quote from: ato memphis on June 03, 2009, 01:17:59 PM
Get it up and running and take it on a nice long ride on some scenic twisty roads. Monsters aren't that fun on the highway. No naked bike is. (Took me 2800 mi to fully understand this) The air cooled motor has a great torquey feeling, but you'll need to get past the first service to have any fun.
Agree with Ato Memphis. Break in the bike and enjoy the bike on some scenic twisty roads. You might find a different kind of enjoyment out of riding. Sorry we have been a bit harsh on you. Just trying to get you to see the flip side of the coin. :)
Quote from: Goat_Herder on June 03, 2009, 01:43:02 PM
Sorry we have been a bit harsh on you. Just trying to get you to see the flip side of the coin. :)
Oh, I don't think anyone has been harsh. I certainly didn't expect everyone to agree with me. There is no substitute for the experience on this board, so I am happy for the advice.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 03, 2009, 01:14:07 PM
The stock rim was already ordered, so while it has not been delivered, I assume I am on the hook for that already. Again, my mistake. I do appreciate that someone here offered to hook me up with a rim for a great price. Again, lesson learned.
Did you already pay for the part? You can always return something if it is unused you might hit with a restocking fee though. And if it has been ordered but not delivered yet there is always the possibility the order has not even been shipped yet. Call them and try to cancel the order it can't hurt!
Quote from: GLantern on June 03, 2009, 01:54:54 PM
Did you already pay for the part? You can always return something if it is unused you might hit with a restocking fee though. And if it has been ordered but not delivered yet there is always the possibility the order has not even been shipped yet. Call them and try to cancel the order it can't hurt!
No, I haven't paid yet. The rim is expected to arrive anytime now, if it is not there already.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 03, 2009, 02:11:45 PM
No, I haven't paid yet. The rim is expected to arrive anytime now, if it is not there already.
Here's what I recommend that you consider trying:
First off, call up the dealer, and find out if you can back out of the purchase of the wheel.
Heck, since you haven't even paid for it as of yet (no deposit or anything), you might not need to do anything other than simply not pick it up.
Second, you can pick up a wheel from a 695 or a 620, as they are exactly the same as the one your 696 came with.
The part number for the wheel is slightly different, but all the other parts, the wheel bearings, the axle tube, spacers, etc, are the same, so it will bolt up perfectly.
You can pull up the images of both the 695 and the 696 in two different windows from the Ducati website and compare them visually, if you need to.
After you get the bike back on the road, and I recommend doing it considerably cheaper, I recommend riding it for a lot longer than 61 kms before judging that the bike is better/worse than your last bike. What you did was perform a lateral move from one bike to another. You didn't upgrade (performance wise, that is) in any actual way going from your Bandit to the Ducati. The inline 4 engine makes the bulk of its power in the higher rpm range, while the 696 is more in the mid to high range, plus the power-pulses from the two engines are entirely different.
The 696 is anything but anemic (like what some people are trying to declare) at highway speeds.
Pick a speed below 120 mph, and it will cruise at that speed all day long, if you so desire.
Well, at least until the tank runs out of fuel, that is.
Ducati's are a bit more money than their direct competition, I understand that.
You most definitely could have bought something entirely different than the 696 for the money you spent on it.
I say that you are just suffering not only from buyers remorse, but also from messing up your bike from an accident on the first ride, and getting sticker shock from the cost of the replacement part you need. I'm curious if you even revved the bike past the 5500 to 6000 rpm limit that the owners manual recommends for the first 1k kms. If you are sticking to the rpm limits of the owner's manual, then you haven't even tapped into the fun part of the power band on the bike as of yet.
So fix your bike, finish breaking it in, and then decide if you like it or not.
Trying to make a decision like this after only putting 61 kms and then having the bike sit while you wait for replacement parts isn't fair to you, or the bike.
BC.
its not "anemic" on the highway. its uncomfortable. 2800 mi over the span of a week on I-40/Rt. 66 agrees.
RC Fan-
I'm sorry you have such remorse over that bike. Not only did you pay dealer price for the bike, but after a few kms you now must pay dealer price for a new rim. However a little perspective I think is what you need here more than anything.
Number one it's quite likely you desperately need riding lessons. I hit potholes all the time in DC; the streets here look like they've been carpetbombed by B-52s. Never have I had your problem and I've had to hit some pretty nasty ones. Ya gotta know how to hit 'em, better yet avoid them, and I don't quite think you do. It comes from learning how to ride a motorcycle. Number two you seem to be of the non-Ducatisti mindset, therefore you bought the wrong bike; furthermore you are whining about it on the wrong forum, which I find mildly irritating. You really are acting like a baby. Number three you have been presented with viable options that you have refused, options that would have saved you big money yet it seems you choose to pay this big money just so you can claim griping rights. Now, you will either 1) live with your purchase 2) sell the bike at a loss after you replace the rim for $1500CDN. Ouch! You will not get what you paid for the bike as it's now used, especially if you own up to hitting a pothole and causing damage. So you're in a bit of a pickle and understandably upset. Apparently, all the research you said you performed before purchasing the bike of your nightmares was what they call in the scientific profession 'inadequate'.
If you were to simply act like an adult and attempt to understand first what you are condemning, you would be a lot better off. Good luck to you. Hundreds or even thousands of satisfied Ducati Monster 696 owners out there in the world would take issue with your complaints. Suzuki wheels crack and bend too.
be nice
Your rear wheel should be between $1,200 and 1,300, not $1,500. Look it up here:
http://www.store.commoto.com/parts-ordering.php (http://www.store.commoto.com/parts-ordering.php)
Base Part #50221301AB REAR RIM 696 MR/09 (Active) $1,232.99 Oops, your from Canada, nevermind.
The wheel for your Duc also comes with the bearings which, on most other bikes would be an additional expense for both parts and labor. Still more expensive than most bikes, but less.
Since your Monster is about the same horsepower and notably lighter than your Bandit I'm at a loss where the performance problem is unless your bike either has a running problem or you need more time getting used to it. Gearing is high, maybe when the dealer puts the new wheel on you should consider two teeth up on the rear sprocket or one down on the front.
Quote from: howie on June 03, 2009, 04:17:58 PM
Your rear wheel should be between $1,200 and 1,300, not $1,500. Look it up here:
http://www.store.commoto.com/parts-ordering.php (http://www.store.commoto.com/parts-ordering.php)
Base Part #50221301AB REAR RIM 696 MR/09 (Active) $1,232.99 Oops, your from Canada, nevermind.
The wheel for your Duc also comes with the bearings which, on most other bikes would be an additional expense for both parts and labor. Still more expensive than most bikes, but less.
Since your Monster is about the same horsepower and notably lighter than your Bandit I'm at a loss where the performance problem is unless your bike either has a running problem or you need more time getting used to it. Gearing is high, maybe when the dealer puts the new wheel on you should consider two teeth up on the rear sprocket or one down on the front.
It is the front rim, and I am in Canada, so we need to add the exchange (I do assume the rear rim is more though).
Quote from: bergdoerfer on June 03, 2009, 04:08:02 PM
RC Fan-
I'm sorry you have such remorse over that bike. Not only did you pay dealer price for the bike, but after a few kms you now must pay dealer price for a new rim. However a little perspective I think is what you need here more than anything.
Number one it's quite likely you desperately need riding lessons. I hit potholes all the time in DC; the streets here look like they've been carpetbombed by B-52s. Never have I had your problem and I've had to hit some pretty nasty ones. Ya gotta know how to hit 'em, better yet avoid them, and I don't quite think you do. It comes from learning how to ride a motorcycle. Number two you seem to be of the non-Ducatisti mindset, therefore you bought the wrong bike; furthermore you are whining about it on the wrong forum, which I find mildly irritating. You really are acting like a baby. Number three you have been presented with viable options that you have refused, options that would have saved you big money yet it seems you choose to pay this big money just so you can claim griping rights. Now, you will either 1) live with your purchase 2) sell the bike at a loss after you replace the rim for $1500CDN. Ouch! You will not get what you paid for the bike as it's now used, especially if you own up to hitting a pothole and causing damage. So you're in a bit of a pickle and understandably upset. Apparently, all the research you said you performed before purchasing the bike of your nightmares was what they call in the scientific profession 'inadequate'.
If you were to simply act like an adult and attempt to understand first what you are condemning, you would be a lot better off. Good luck to you. Hundreds or even thousands of satisfied Ducati Monster 696 owners out there in the world would take issue with your complaints. Suzuki wheels crack and bend too.
Well, it was either hit the pothole, hit the oncoming transport truck, or swerve and go into the gravel. I am sure my skills could use more work, but please enlighten me as to the correct way to hit a pothole?
Obviously I know Suzuki rims crack and break. I hit a few potholes with my Bandit with no issues.
I am not interested in paying out $1500 to claim griping rights. I am way too cheap for that.
I certainly never said that there weren't lots of satisfied 696 owners out there. I also expected negative feedback. In what forum do you suggest I pose my question if not here?
Quote from: RC Fan on June 03, 2009, 04:32:18 PM
Well, it was either hit the pothole, hit the oncoming transport truck, or swerve and go into the gravel. I am sure my skills could use more work, but please enlighten me as to the correct way to hit a pothole?
Ass off the seat, bars light in your hands, give a little gas to lighten the front end as you approach (braking into it puts more weight on the front wheel, compresses the suspension, and generally makes the impact several times worse). You want to let the bike move underneath you and act as a human shock absorber.
Some people have bent rims badly on uneven bridges. A friend did on a Honda, and it was just a bad day.
Just for the record, I doubt many who have posted here have ridden a Bandit. They are not your typical high-revving I4 motors. They make a lot of torque down low.
RC fan - next time you break something, its best to post up here before you buy an expensive OEM part, and (as you've seen) you'll get a lot of opinions and some good advice. :)
Quote from: pompetta on June 03, 2009, 05:06:56 PM
RC fan - next time you break something, its best to post up here before you buy an expensive OEM part, and (as you've seen) you'll get a lot of opinions and some good advice. :)
I will do that for sure!
Quote from: ato memphis on June 03, 2009, 04:35:47 PM
Ass off the seat, bars light in your hands, give a little gas to lighten the front end as you approach (braking into it puts more weight on the front wheel, compresses the suspension, and generally makes the impact several times worse). You want to let the bike move underneath you and act as a human shock absorber.
Yes, I believe I have read about that in David Hough's 'Proficient Motorcycling' and 'More Proficient Motorcycling'. I may not have pulled it off though.
RC Fan,
It's expected that you will get a lot of defensive answers. This is a Ducati Monster Forum, afterall. :)
I feel your frustration. There's not much excuse I can make around the part costs. Ducati bikes are very expensive. Ducati parts are crazy expensive. It's more of a specialty brand that would never provide a cost-effective transportation compare to large manufacturer like Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, or Kawasaki. Performance wise, M696 is the 'cheapest' Ducati model currently, so it definitely not going to blow you away either.
For myself, I got into Ducati knowing how it is fully. I fully expect to find huge price tags from the dealer. Yet I still buy a Ducati, and that's just my personal choice and preference. I never pretend that owning a Ducati will be cheap. It's just going to be more costly than most other brands (save for some even more exotic brands like MV or Bimota). Sounds like your research wasn't as extensive as you may have thought. :)
Back to the part price, as others has mentioned, to get around the high OEM costs, most well-informed owners will try to find spare parts used or aftermarket. Unfortunately the M696 just came out for a little over 1 year. The used parts and aftermarket parts aren't as common yet. It also mean there's not that much competition at the moment for M696 aftermarket parts. Thus the parts are naturally more expensive.
I would suggest you try to find used rims. And whatever you do to fix your bike, please get full-coverage insurance. This way the expensive parts will be the problem of the insurance company.
Good luck and I hope this experience changes your expectation of the M696 but doesn't turn you away from this capable and fun motorcycle.
Quote from: peanut_man on June 03, 2009, 05:22:30 PM
RC Fan,
It's expected that you will get a lot of defensive answers. This is a Ducati Monster Forum, afterall. :)
I would suggest you try to find used rims. And whatever you do to fix your bike, please get full-coverage insurance. This way the expensive parts will be the problem of the insurance company.
I expected defensive answers. I guess I didn't expect someone saying I shouldn't post anything that isn't pro-Ducati.
In regards to insurance, I am a licensed insurance agent for a large US-based company. Naturally I carry full coverage. Habitually making the expensive parts the problem of the insurance company invariably leads to higher rates for everyone.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 03, 2009, 05:46:43 PM
I expected defensive answers. I guess I didn't expect someone saying I shouldn't post anything that isn't pro-Ducati.
In regards to insurance, I am a licensed insurance agent for a large US-based company. Naturally I carry full coverage. Habitually making the expensive parts the problem of the insurance company invariably leads to higher rates for everyone.
Don't listen to people that say you have to only say nice things about whatever.
Those people don't matter, in the long run.
Also, as long as you don't make a HABIT out of submitting insurance claims, there's nothing to worry about.
And seriously, what's the point of having comprehensive and collision insurance if you're afraid of using it when you actually have an expensive mishap?
Either make the claim and make your bike whole again, or buy a used wheel, and save yourself a bunch of bucks, leaving your insurance claim record spotless.
BC.
Quote from: Bladecutter on June 03, 2009, 06:00:11 PM
Also, as long as you don't make a HABIT out of submitting insurance claims, there's nothing to worry about.
And seriously, what's the point of having comprehensive and collision insurance if you're afraid of using it when you actually have an expensive mishap?
Either make the claim and make your bike whole again, or buy a used wheel, and save yourself a bunch of bucks, leaving your insurance claim record spotless.
BC.
Yes, it is making repeated claims that can become problematic in the long term. Things can change very quickly in the insurance industry.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 03, 2009, 05:46:43 PM
I expected defensive answers. I guess I didn't expect someone saying I shouldn't post anything that isn't pro-Ducati.
In regards to insurance, I am a licensed insurance agent for a large US-based company. Naturally I carry full coverage. Habitually making the expensive parts the problem of the insurance company invariably leads to higher rates for everyone.
off topic, sorry, but I feel I must clarify your statement here. I'm actually not sure what you mean by 'Habitually making the expensive parts the problem of the insurance company invariably leads to higher rates for everyone.'? I buy insurance so that I do not have to worry about paying for expensive damages. Are you saying that claiming for damages for expensive parts that I has insured for is some how wrong or unacceptable? Seems odd. Habitually? Yes, if there's accidents / damages with
significant cost, I will file claim with my insurance. Isn't it why I bought the insurance in the first place?
$1500 is significant cost. It's not something you claim every week or every month. Unless you HABITUALLY damage your wheel, there should not be a reason to not file claim and having the insurance takes care of the fix (less deductible of course).
Make that claim, fix your wheel and ride on.
Now I'm hoping you are just venting... but it's starting to sound more like trolling to me. ???
Quote from: peanut_man on June 03, 2009, 06:14:41 PM
off topic, sorry, but I feel I must clarify your statement here. I'm actually not sure what you mean by 'Habitually making the expensive parts the problem of the insurance company invariably leads to higher rates for everyone.'? I buy insurance so that I do not have to worry about paying for expensive damages. Are you saying that claiming for damages for expensive parts that I has insured for is some how wrong or unacceptable? Seems odd. Habitually? Yes, if there's accidents / damages with significant cost, I will file claim with my insurance. Isn't it why I bought the insurance in the first place?
$1500 is significant cost. It's not something you claim every week or every month. Unless you HABITUALLY damage your wheel, there should not be a reason to not file claim and having the insurance takes care of the fix (less deductible of course).
Make that claim, fix your wheel and ride on.
Now I'm hoping you are just venting... but it's starting to sound more like trolling to me. ???
Habitually as in continually. As in claiming for every little thing. That is how I perceived your comment in the first place. Insurance is meant for large claims. I am not pro-insurance company, I have just seen several small claims roll into a surcharge for the client. Sometimes short term gains equal long term pain.
How is that trolling?
So you have full insurance, the damage is major, you are not habitually filing claims. Everything is legit, file the claim, get your bike fixed like new, and ride on. End of story. However, this thread is now 8 pages. And that seems to be because a lot of replies are causing emotional responses. That to me is a sign that the purpose here is not really trying to get a problem solved but to evoke more responses. Hence I'm starting to think this is trolling. Maybe I'm wrong, lets see how far this thread goes. :)
Also, if you haven't have your 696 serviced yet... If you think parts are expensive, wait till you see the service prices. :D At least you won't have to bother your insurance company with it.
Quote from: peanut_man on June 03, 2009, 07:21:29 PM
So you have full insurance, the damage is major, you are not habitually filing claims. Everything is legit, file the claim, get your bike fixed like new, and ride on. End of story. However, this thread is now 8 pages. And that seems to be because a lot of replies are causing emotional responses. That to me is a sign that the purpose here is not really trying to get a problem solved but to evoke more responses. Hence I'm starting to think this is trolling. Maybe I'm wrong, lets see how far this thread goes. :)
Also, if you haven't have your 696 serviced yet... If you think parts are expensive, wait till you see the service prices. :D At least you won't have to bother your insurance company with it.
I doubt it's trolling. RC Fan seems to be pretty levelheaded through the crap we've tossed at him, and even seems to be considering it.
Quote from: MrIncredible on June 03, 2009, 07:27:33 PM
I doubt it's trolling. RC Fan seems to be pretty levelheaded through the crap we've tossed at him, and even seems to be considering it.
guy named cathy?
Quote from: ato memphis on June 03, 2009, 08:27:06 PM
guy named cathy?
Profile claims Cathy is a woman. Not that names denote anything-just ask sally101.
Quote from: peanut_man on June 03, 2009, 07:21:29 PM
So you have full insurance, the damage is major, you are not habitually filing claims. Everything is legit, file the claim, get your bike fixed like new, and ride on. End of story. However, this thread is now 8 pages. And that seems to be because a lot of replies are causing emotional responses. That to me is a sign that the purpose here is not really trying to get a problem solved but to evoke more responses. Hence I'm starting to think this is trolling. Maybe I'm wrong, lets see how far this thread goes. :)
Also, if you haven't have your 696 serviced yet... If you think parts are expensive, wait till you see the service prices. :D At least you won't have to bother your insurance company with it.
If I was trolling as you say, and I was trying to raise a stink about insurance, wouldn't I have brought that up eight pages ago? Sorry to be boring, but I am not a troll. I have gotten 8 pages of great advice, for which I am grateful. I am certainly open for more advice on this subject, whether people agree with me or not.
Quote from: MrIncredible on June 03, 2009, 08:32:56 PM
Profile claims Cathy is a woman.
Yes, that is correct. Might explain some things eh? Still not a troll though.
do you, by chance, happen to live under a bridge?
(more seriously, post up when you've figured out the whole wheel situation)
Quote from: ato memphis on June 04, 2009, 08:23:43 AM
(more seriously, post up when you've figured out the whole wheel situation)
Will do! You guys have convinced me that I need to give the bike a proper chance, so I endeavour to do that this summer. I will also try to miss the bloody pothole next time if possible!
You can't miss 'em all, but there are a few tips that make them easier to manage:
light hands on the bars. a death grip only hurts you.
don't be on the brakes as you hit it, if you must slow down, slow down early, then be on the gas as you approach.
by on the gas, i don't mean open the throttle as far as you can and wheelie over it. i mean, make sure the throttle is at least cracked open to shift weight off the front and on to the rear of the bike.
ALSO, for the price of the replacement OEM wheel, you can nearly get a set of Carrozzeria wheels from MonsterParts / Motowheels and have a little bit more performance. ;)
Quote from: ato memphis on June 04, 2009, 08:41:10 AM
You can't miss 'em all, but there are a few tips that make them easier to manage:
light hands on the bars. a death grip only hurts you.
don't be on the brakes as you hit it, if you must slow down, slow down early, then be on the gas as you approach.
by on the gas, i don't mean open the throttle as far as you can and wheelie over it. i mean, make sure the throttle is at least cracked open to shift weight off the front and on to the rear of the bike.
ALSO, for the price of the replacement OEM wheel, you can nearly get a set of Carrozzeria wheels from MonsterParts / Motowheels and have a little bit more performance. ;)
Thanks, I will keep that in mind.
That ITX Forged Aluminum wheel at Motowheels is sharp too!
Quote from: RC Fan on June 04, 2009, 08:52:24 AM
Thanks, I will keep that in mind.
That ITX Forged Aluminum wheel at Motowheels is sharp too!
now you're learnin' ;)
breaking OE stuff is the best reason to upgrade!
also, if you get black wheels, they don't look dirty near as much.
+11ty billion, after PCing my wheels i finnaly saw this stuff called "brake dust"
and only a female could take the kind of crap thrown around on this thread, if it was any of the dudes i knew, they be pointing shotguns back.
i still vote Street Triple R!!!
great, now im a troll!
Quote from: He Man on June 04, 2009, 09:44:02 AM
great, now im a troll!
I agree with the street triple but AFTER you break in the 696 and give it a chance just to be sure.
I'll troll with you though i'm still waiting for craigo to come back about this one ;D
Quote from: craigo on May 30, 2009, 08:22:32 AM
Photos of back tires from "need more power" set please. kthx.
Quote from: GLantern on June 03, 2009, 11:20:34 AM
Whats up?
(http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a110/GreenLanternLCD/FirstTrackDay30.jpg)
Quote from: He Man on June 04, 2009, 09:44:02 AM
i still vote Street Triple R!!!
There is a used Speed Triple here in town that I want to check out. There isn't a dealer here unfortunately, and the nearest dealerships are three to four hours away. I will be hitting one of them to check out a Street Triple. One must always be on the lookout for one's next motorcycle.
Quote from: GLantern on June 04, 2009, 10:00:09 AM
I agree with the street triple but AFTER you break in the 696 and give it a chance just to be sure.
Yes, I am likely not quite ready for a Street Triple. Seat height is a limiting factor for me too, as I am too wimpy to hang off one side.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 04, 2009, 10:01:46 AM
There is a used Speed Triple here in town that I want to check out. There isn't a dealer here unfortunately, and the nearest dealerships are three to four hours away. I will be hitting one of them to check out a Street Triple. One must always be on the lookout for one's next motorcycle.
That is something to seriously consider when purchasing a bike. If your dealer is 3-4 hours away it becomes a huge hassle if anything is needed for the motorcycle.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 04, 2009, 08:52:24 AM
Thanks, I will keep that in mind.
That ITX Forged Aluminum wheel at Motowheels is sharp too!
Make sure you register with Motowheels, the pricing gets even better. You're talking about $500 more than the cost of the single OEM wheel will get a set of those ITX wheels.
All the board sponsors will save you money.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 03, 2009, 06:25:05 PM
Habitually as in continually. As in claiming for every little thing. That is how I perceived your comment in the first place. Insurance is meant for large claims. I am not pro-insurance company, I have just seen several small claims roll into a surcharge for the client. Sometimes short term gains equal long term pain.
How is that trolling?
im sorry........what??
insurance is meant for whatever you or i as the insured party are eligible for under a given policy.
Quote from: z0mb1e_DUC on June 04, 2009, 12:19:34 PM
All the board sponsors will save you money.
hahahahahhaha. yup...as in 'look, honey, I saved hundreds of dollars by getting my BSTs from motowheels, and Matrix gave me a discount so I saved 50 bucks on my last order'..etc.etc.
effin drug pushers all of 'em. ;D
Quote from: MrIncredible on June 03, 2009, 07:27:33 PM
I doubt it's trolling. RC Fan seems to be pretty levelheaded through the crap we've tossed at him, and even seems to be considering it.
Ok, I'm just surprised how simple issue takes ... well, now 9 pages. There's already tons of good advices, but it still seems to be going. And admittedly I got a bit ... annoyed... from the insurance comment, so I took it as if OP was more targeting for argument. Maybe I'm wrong. But still... 9 pages? hahaha...
Quote from: Statler on June 04, 2009, 04:28:19 PM
hahahahahhaha. yup...as in 'look, honey, I saved hundreds of dollars by getting my BSTs from motowheels, and Matrix gave me a discount so I saved 50 bucks on my last order'..etc.etc.
effin drug pushers all of 'em. ;D
For some reason I was picturing a Geico caveman getting off a Duc there. :D
Yea, wife keeps yelling at me. I'm like a kid in a candy store... [evil]
Duc's are like crack, we're always looking for the next big rush...
Quote from: Statler on June 04, 2009, 04:28:19 PM
<snip>
....effin drug pushers all of 'em. ;D
+1 ;) [laugh]
I would never be so uncouth to ask a woman her weight, but you might consider investigating getting the forks and shock set up for your weight.
Best modification you can buy for the lower-spec'd bikes (of which mine is one).
If you're in the range, then yipee.
I say buy that wheel for a 100 bucks, ride your duc for a few thousand miles. Shit I've put over 4k on my m900sie in a bit over 2 weeks. Then if you still want more powa upgrade to a bulletproof 900 or one of the newer liter monsters. What can I say I'm biased but the older monsters look so much better, although i do wish i had that sexy single sided swing arm.
Those street triples are the bee's knees, but like you said they are to high for you and you can't beat the sitting position on a monster. I couldn't imagine being bent over like that all the time, that and i'm 6,3 so the triples are a bit small for me.
mmm this jack and apple is comin on fast normally just lurk no post here. so i apologize for the slurred text. mmmm whiskey [drink] [laugh]
Quote from: herm on June 04, 2009, 04:19:23 PM
im sorry........what??
insurance is meant for whatever you or i as the insured party are eligible for under a given policy.
Sorry, all I was trying to say was that I am scared to put a chargeable claim through, thereby marring my currently perfect record, in the fear that another claim will follow, resulting in a premium increase for years to come.
Quote from: Privateer on June 04, 2009, 07:23:49 PM
I would never be so uncouth to ask a woman her weight, but you might consider investigating getting the forks and shock set up for your weight.
That is OK. I weigh about 165.
Quote from: jestor00 on June 04, 2009, 08:17:38 PM
IThose street triples are the bee's knees, but like you said they are to high for you and you can't beat the sitting position on a monster. I couldn't imagine being bent over like that all the time, that and i'm 6,3 so the triples are a bit small for me.
I'd have to sit on a Speed Triple or a Street Triple to see if the seat is do-able or not. These seat height measurements seem to be rather subjective.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 05, 2009, 03:06:19 AM
Sorry, all I was trying to say was that I am scared to put a chargeable claim through, thereby marring my currently perfect record, in the fear that another claim will follow, resulting in a premium increase for years to come.
Dad works in claims, i used to be afraid of the same thing... he told me to file any claim i get, otherwise you're paying that premium increase upfront with no guarantee you'll ever need it. Afterall, that's why you have insurance. (if you have a high deductible that hardly leaves any payout, then it may be a moot point, and not worth filing, but i doubt that's the case)
if you cant 100% flat foot with the 696, you will not even touch the ground on the speed triple. on the street triple, youll tippy toe. i'm 5'6, 32inch inseam 150lbs and thats what happens to me when i sit on it. though most women have much longer legs for the same height, you might have a few more inches of inseam to work with!
Quote from: He Man on June 05, 2009, 10:23:05 AM
if you cant 100% flat foot with the 696, you will not even touch the ground on the speed triple. on the street triple, youll tippy toe. i'm 5'6, 32inch inseam 150lbs and thats what happens to me when i sit on it. though most women have much longer legs for the same height, you might have a few more inches of inseam to work with!
Nope, I am not flat-footed on the 696. I have come to the realization that if I am ever to get another bike, I will need to master the whole 'slide to one side' manoeuver.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 05, 2009, 11:53:23 AM
Nope, I am not flat-footed on the 696. I have come to the realization that if I am ever to get another bike, I will need to master the whole 'slide to one side' manoeuver.
just make sure it's the correct side. ;) (i think that's somewhere in the 128 ways to drop your bike thread)
Quote from: zedsaid on June 05, 2009, 10:19:59 AM
Dad works in claims, i used to be afraid of the same thing... he told me to file any claim i get, otherwise you're paying that premium increase upfront with no guarantee you'll ever need it. Afterall, that's why you have insurance. (if you have a high deductible that hardly leaves any payout, then it may be a moot point, and not worth filing, but i doubt that's the case)
pretty much what i was getting at.
i just filed my first claim in 10 years of being completely covered on motorcycle insurance......not because i was afraid, just never had a claim before.
the ins. co. is still ahead in this game.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 05, 2009, 11:53:23 AM
Nope, I am not flat-footed on the 696. I have come to the realization that if I am ever to get another bike, I will need to master the whole 'slide to one side' manoeuver.
what do you wear on your feet when you ride? I have to tippy toe on shoes, and i can almost flat foot on boots, and do the side to sid on my oxtars, but it depends on where you are going and what kind of riding you're doing at the momment, if you're on your way to work, regular boots work great, just keep a pair of whatever shoes you're wearing, at work. If you're out riding, you're usualy not touching ground unless you're taking a break, so its not that big of a deal.
Though breaking in the 696 will make the bike much more smoother and fun to ride, you're still not going to get any power out of it. So if you're going to sell it the sooner the better. thats assuming you can handle that kind of power, cause you can get into trouble with a 80hp just like you can with 130hp.
Quote from: He Man on June 05, 2009, 12:34:21 PM
what do you wear on your feet when you ride? I have to tippy toe on shoes, and i can almost flat foot on boots, and do the side to sid on my oxtars, but it depends on where you are going and what kind of riding you're doing at the momment, if you're on your way to work, regular boots work great, just keep a pair of whatever shoes you're wearing, at work. If you're out riding, you're usualy not touching ground unless you're taking a break, so its not that big of a deal.
Though breaking in the 696 will make the bike much more smoother and fun to ride, you're still not going to get any power out of it. So if you're going to sell it the sooner the better. thats assuming you can handle that kind of power, cause you can get into trouble with a 80hp just like you can with 130hp.
I have a pair of Alpinestars SMX-4 boots that I am breaking in currently. Something with a thicker sole would be great, but that makes it hard to get your toes under the shift lever.
I think I would be OK with the extra power. I ride fairly conservatively, it is just nice to have the power there if you need it.
Quote from: RC Fan on June 05, 2009, 01:16:16 PM
I think I would be OK with the extra power. I ride fairly conservatively, it is just nice to have the power there if you need it.
That's a slippery slope you can quickly find yourself on, you know. ;)
I currently ride an 848, which I find phenomenal for power all across the rpm range.
But, what I wouldn't give to have the power of the Desmosedici every now and again.
What would happen if I owned the Desmosedici?
Would I be lusting after a turbo or supercharger kit?
I've only recently touched the rev limiter on the 848 in 4th gear recently.
That short period of time that it went from 110 mph to 146 is more than enough power for my tastes.
Heck, second gear alone redlines at 100mph.
So at street legal speeds, all I ever need to do is drop down into second gear, wring it out, pass the car, pull back into my lane, and all is good. But its nice having all of those extra gears, for some crazed reason.
I had a point, I know I did.
Oh yeah, more power becomes a dangerous lust.
Enjoy what you have, and enjoy it fully.
BC.