Common problems or poor maintenance

[haucker123]

Hey, i am looking at buying an 01 ducati monster dark 900cc and was wondering if there are any common problems or poor maintanence areas i should look out for

[MendoDave]

Dents in tank sometimes cause leaks at the tank seam.

Be sure and visit the Introduce yourself part of the forum.

[junior varsity]

'01 is a Fuel Injected Monster. It makes a good deal of power and torque. The motor is fairly robust, there are no common problems that pop out in my head.

The model, being a dark, will have shitty suspension. Consider upgrading these bits early in your ownership to enjoy the other features of the bike.

People have a nasty habit of leaving the fork reflectors on there, which is like a 2hp loss from the get go. Make sure to yank those off.

[Howie]

If you don't know when the timing belts were last changed and the valves were adjusted or if the belts are over two years old you need belts and a valve adjustment.  Also check the age of the tires.

[rockaduc]

If you don't know when the timing belts were last changed and the valves were adjusted or if the belts are over two years old you need belts and a valve adjustment.  Also check the age of the tires.

+1. Ask where they had the major service intervals done: 600mi, 6k, 12k, 18k, etc. (unless they performed this work themselves).  They should be able to produce receipts.

[junior varsity]

You didn't say how many miles, might want to investigate the clutch for slippage as well

[haucker123]

Excellent feedback! thanks!