Looking for someone's opinion who has ridden 2 different models...

[swrandall]

I am going into my 3rd year of riding and I have decided that a Ducati is going to be my next bike. I currently have the bike shown below however I believe that within the next year (maybe less depending on Wifey) I will change bikes. I have sat on several Duc's at my local dealer and found that the 696 fits very well as does the 900sie. (696 new, 900sie used or course)  I am somewhat short (5'3") and so I am limited as to what I can ride.  I realize that trying to compare these 2 bikes are like apples and oranges but I wanted an opinion from someone that has ridden both  (maybe even ridden on a cbr250R like what I have now) as to what I can expect for differences in handling, braking, steering, suspension, acceleration, torque etc from each. Pics of the bike I ride now for fun..

[krolik]

Try to get a test ride on both, and see which one fits you better. I could tell you how they felt to me but since I'm 6'2", it wouldn't help you much.

[swrandall]

Try to get a test ride on both, and see which one fits you better. I could tell you how they felt to me but since I'm 6'2", it wouldn't help you much.

About to get hit with 20+ inches of snow so no test rides for a couple months at best ...I would love to though.

[rule62]

If the 900 is actually an S model, GO FOR IT! It's a much better bike all around.

[muskrat]

I concur with the 900. 

[zooom]

the picture you have of whatever bike you have been riding, I can not see due to my webfilter here at work...so I am not sure what basis I am going for comparison wise in terms of relating to you what you might experience or how they would feel different to you....we also don't have an idea how you would be riding or what kind of milage or any of those kinds of details....so that being said, I am just going to shoot from MY experience of what I feel and know...

the 900 will have more punchy torque and more of a engine brake feeling when rolling off the throttle...

the 696 will be faster revving and might have a more modern appeal and more readily available parts availability in terms of modding options...

they both weigh nearly the same and have similar power numbers on paper...but they will feel wholly different...both can feel very nimble if the suspension is setup correctly...both will have their pluses and minuses in terms of preference...

IMHO...the biggest + is the fact that the 900 will have a metal tank which means no ethanol tank expansion issue and I think the 900 will have a more endearing long term charachter to it....

[Kev M]

IMHO...the biggest + is the fact that the 900 will have a metal tank which means no ethanol tank expansion issue and I think the 900 will have a more endearing long term charachter to it....

It's really a non-issue on the 696, since it uses a plastic tank cover - the only thing that might happen is that the cover might get a little snug.

It's not like it is going to be cosmetic and I've not heard of any seam problems.

[muskrat]

if you can, ride them both because the seating and reach is vastly different.