I don't have any first-hand experience with the newer-generation monsters, but if they're as fun and easy to ride as the older ones then I can't really see the 696 coming up short anywhere besides displacement. Hell, I think it's got more horsepower than my bike. The 1100 just gives you a bit more *grunt* and some shiny doodads.
Just tinkering.
Doing some upgrades I've been putting off for a while, and it's due for a valve adjustment and belt replacement. Superbike forks, 999 wheels, new clip-ons, heated grips, better brakes, etc, etc. I've been amassing parts for, like, a year and a half and I'm just now getting around to tearing into the thing.