I suppose getting some two-wheel time in would be appropriate before the snow falls. I have all winter to fantasize and plan upgrades and mod.
Detroit: I've just started following your mod thread, and like everyone else, I'm jealous of your shop. I like the way your bike is shaping up. Let us all know when you start producing parts!
Yeah, I'm sure there are some instructions somewhere around here for swapping sprockets. I've held a screw-driver before, so it shouldn't be too hard.
Suggest you listen to the "adults" in the room and get it done by the dealer.
http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=59841.msg1108237#msg1108237If you are not careful, you'll bugger up the countershaft if you attempt this change yourself, and you'll need to buy a special tool.
There is no justification for the stock gearing in the U.S. and the stock gearing is there solely for the purpose of passing the EC drive-by noise testing and Euro 3 emissions. Ducati would probably do the lower gearing themselves if they had the choice..., but they don't. Of the 8 Ducatis I've owned, three needed a 14T.
Granted, two teeth up would be better, but expensive. When you replace chain and sprockets at 15K or 22.5K, you can do it "the right way". Failing to do this now will leave you with a bike which shakes horribly in town and you'll almost NEVER get to 6th gear.
Good time to mention I have never been on a 796. There is no substitute for experience, and I have definitely been wrong before. The bike might desperately need a 14T front sprocket.
Something I do know, its going to be cold and snowy in Michigan very shortly. I grew up in Detroit, and I still remember what the weather was like. Your first ride on the bike will be next year if this drags out. Even if the bike feels terrible at low RPMs, you will still be on your new Monster. Doubt you will hate it. You have all winter to do the front sprocket and any other mods you want. Ultimately, you have to make up your own mind about it.
You should have no trouble doing it yourself if you don't rush through it. These are the only oddball tools needed to swap out the sprocket. Torque wrench is not a bad idea when messing with the final drive / pinch bolts on the swing arm.
Clicky:
Chain adjusting tool.
http://www.monsterparts.com/pc/CH-1/MAINT-TOOLS/CH-1.htmlStand or some way to get your rear wheel off the ground.
http://www.monsterparts.com/pc/F0029-000/MAINT-STAND/F0029-000.htmlBTW, glad you like my build thread.
