First bike a monster 696?!?

[DonJuanit0]

So, I've ridden some bikes before, scooters, XTs from 50cc to 600 but never on road with other car, motorcycles and staff, I just know balance, how to use the clutch and the basics... I've never been on a monster :-( but monster 696 is like a dream to me!! So, I am 21 years old and I can raise money but not THAT easily (I'm not gonna get any help from my folks, they don't really agree with me driving a motorcycle though I drive a car 2 years now perfectly as they both say, so I don't even want to ask for help) The thing is, I can't wait to raise 2k for a 250cc SPEND them and then start all over again to reach 9k plus, the time I will "lose" in learning !!

What I want to know is, I am a decent driver, I don't run too fast (only where I am 100% sure I can) , I know my limits and the limits of my car (all I know about me as a driver is my driving my car),

Is it able for me to buy a Ducati monster 696 and learn how to drive it with my experience? Not kill my self or damage my Ducatti?


Propably you'll all say it is possible but, bla bla bla... So I'd like a yes or no in the end of your posts, do it or no...

Thanks in regard!!

[Popeye the Sailor]

The first time you drop it, the repair costs will be more than a proper beginner bike.

You should learn to ride on something less expensive first. Ideally, something pre-rashed.

Driving a car fine lends itself to motorcycling in the same way that driving a zamboni fine lends itself to flying an airplane.

So no, don't do it.

[Povidius]

I'm sure I'll get greif over this, but I think its fine.  The 696 isn't the most powerful bike on the planet, but its got enough power to get you into serious trouble (then again, ALL bikes do!).

If you're mature and have a great level of respect for what can happen to you on the bike, you'll be better off than experienced riders who think they are untouchable. 

btw, I'm speaking from experience.  I didn't start off with a 'beginners bike' and I've not had a crash/accident my whole riding career (I did drop my bike once though).  Stay off major roads and get as much seat time before you venture out to bigger things...

Just know the risks and make the decision yourself.

[moto]

[Povidius]

^and with that said, I'm sure I've just jinxed myself. 

[Popeye the Sailor]

btw, I'm speaking from experience.  I didn't start off with a 'beginners bike' and I've not had a crash/accident my whole riding career (I did drop my bike once though).  Stay off major roads and get as much seat time before you venture out to bigger things...

What experience?

[Raux]

If you can afford the insurance. do it. the reason i say that is that you most likely will have some sort of incident, albeit minor. but minor on a Ducati is an insurance claim unless you like riding around on a bike looking like you took a grinder to it.

but responsible throttle control is important. it's not a slow bike. it's not a superbike either.

[Povidius]

What experience?

My first bike was a 2003 Yamaha R6

[Veloce-Fino]

Bottom line, It's only as fast as you make it.


The 696 is a forgiving bike to learn on. You can make a mistake and not have it end your riding career. Just remember be alert and respect the power. Don't showboat and don't ride scared. Take the Motorcycle safety course in your area to learn the basics. Don't think your above the course because you have had riding experience.

Oh, and most important!! Don't listen to any bullshit advice. The only person that can decide is you. If your mind is already decided and your looking for justification don't bother, just do it. If you are afraid and anticipate feeling regret, don't!

[THE WRIST]

I think it's all in your mind... If you stay legally in the street and if you turn on your brain before a ride, I think a 696 it's not a trouble...

Remember only one thing before give it some gas: you have only one life! If you can fix this in your mind, I think there's not a problem to ride any bike.

IMHO

Another important thing: wear ALWAYS the helmet, gloves and jacket because the asphalt is tougher than every one...

[J5]

Another important thing: wear ALWAYS the helmet, gloves and jacket because the asphalt is tougher than every one...

the other day i had a thought from the past when i was young and would ride skateboards , sitting down on the skateboard and riding down the hill when it would get stuck and i would keep going and end up with a grazed up arse 

[THE WRIST]

the other day i had a thought from the past when i was young and would ride skateboards , sitting down on the skateboard and riding down the hill when it would get stuck and i would keep going and end up with a grazed up arse 

We're getting older...   

But, because I had a close encounter with a side walk with no jacket (my fxxxxn' elbow bone came out the skin damn...  ) I put my stupid experience on use for the new guys that start to ride...

PS: I had the same problems with a bob on the snow... 

[Howie]

The big problem, IMO, is repair cost.  It seems like you are scrimping and saving for this bike and a minor tip over will put you in the poorhouse.  You might want to consider a used 620 with a discount for the pre-existing tank ding and scratched levers.

[the_Journeyman]

Power & delivery are fine for a new rider. 

Downside, that parking lot "oops" or botched take-off that winds up stalling the motor and resulting in a tip over will be expensive ~

JM

[El Matador]

The big problem, IMO, is repair cost.  It seems like you are scrimping and saving for this bike and a minor tip over will put you in the poorhouse.  You might want to consider a used 620 with a discount for the pre-existing tank ding and scratched levers.

+1

When you can get an M750 for 2-2.5K, I really don't understand buying new if you're a beginner. That being said, As one of the younger members of the board, I recommend the OP get something a little smaller. From your post I don't particularly glean that you're a model of responsibility and maturity.

[the_Journeyman]

I wanted a M600 or M620 for my wife's learner bike.  If you can find them, they're pretty cheap.  My M750 has great power delivery, smooth and no surprises AND less power than a 696.  One of them had cheap would be a good one too.  A like Matador said, a ding & scratch will just get you a better deal ~

JM