Warning this will upset 696 owners

[Scottish]

I wouldn't place to much credit with the journalist... he said the Gladius was exceptionally styled(or something to that effect) in the opening thereby calling into question any further subjective statements made.

[superjohn]

So, the Gladius wins because the styling is "funky" and it's cheap and easy to ride.

The Ducati has "snatchy" handling and isn't too good in the cold.

I guess I like snatchy better than funky because I'd have voted the other way around.

[TrpprJhn]

I've watched a number of the reviews these guys have done, including for makes and models outside of Ducati. I listen very carefully, and can't imagine that these guys spend any time riding the bikes at all. I think the bikes spend most of the time sitting outside a pub.

[Special K]

Where was the Brits beloved Street Triple in this? The only other bike that might compare to the Duc IMO.
The Japanese make good bikes but, the few I've ridden (such as the Kawi er6n), don't have the sound, styling or the handling of the 696. Ducati's are worth every penny!

[bluemoco]

This is a value-oriented segment, and the 696 is priced @ 1000GBP (~$1500) more than the competition.  I suspect that was a major factor in their ranking.

[Big Troubled Bear]

Not upset, I have a DUCATI

[ungeheuer]

I wouldn't place to much credit with the journalist... he said the Gladius was exceptionally styled(or something to that effect) in the opening thereby calling into question any further subjective statements made.

...um but the Gladys is exceptionally styled.  Exceptionally crappily styled, makes me ill just looking at it