I don't do the Bling thing but happy to spend any amount of time, effort and $$$ for reliability.
My main mileage has been on the highway or country roads, can get mighty lonely out in the sticks
with a " stoppage " especially when you know nuthin' about electronic ignition, ECUs and fuel
injection. In the 5 years/25,000kms since this very pre-loved Monster came into my life there's been
a bit of mechanical/electrical fettling done and so far it has proved to be a most reliable motorbike.
Next project is a starter rebuild - would prefer to be clever enough to fit a kickstart
mechanism and do away with the starter altogether...........
When the cover is off the alternator will also get a good going over.
Question - Is there anything else which would be worthwhile replacing while I'm in there, electronic
pick-ups or black boxes for instance ? Maybe in the last 12 years there's better items available ?
check the torque on the flywheel nut.
check the tightness of the screws holding the stator into the cover.
check the shift mechanism adjustment and springs.
check the drilled oil delivery screw (red or black head, to the rear of and below flywheel).
Also, not exactly under the alternator cover, but the wiring connector between the alternator and the regulator/rectifier can always use a quick inspection and cleaning. I didn't think to look at mine until I had my alternator cover off and I tried to unplug the connector for more access...totally melted internally and had to be cut off...a few more rides and I probably would have been stranded somewhere and/or burned up something expensive.
If you're out looking for a project, Ducati has some upgraded parts for the shifter mechanism to beef it up. I did my M695 last year out of dire necessity, but I'm going to do the same to my track bike very soon just for the improved reliability.
BK