thinking about a monster and was wondering what other bikes you had before

[koko64]

Let us know how you go and your impressions should you test ride.

[l88m22vette]

I sought out a Monster as my first bike specifically because of how they ride, the light weight, and their linear power. I didn't want a big or heavy bike or something with any kind of rubberband power delivery, I almost bought an SV650 but I couldn't pass up the Monster or the price.

[Blackout]

My little 800 Monster was my first bike. I too almost opted for the SV650. If I were to do it all over again right now I'd have gotten the 1000. You might want to take a look at what KTM is putting out these days. They have a spiffy 799 and 899 Duke. Those are bikes you could grow into and maybe keep forever.

[rickdm]

I bought my Monster 1200S after riding a Honda CBR 250R. About six months after buying the Monster I bought a KTM 790 Duke.

The Monster is a bike with high gearing, and an engine that doesn't like low revs. It is a rumbly, grumbly bike with loads of character that you have to learn how to ride well. You will become good friends with your clutch. Here in Dallas it cooks me in the summer. The sound is special. If hearing the engine crank up doesn't put a smile on your face, get a different bike.

It reminds me of my '87 911 Carrera 3.2. It felt like no other car and did not suffer fools, but once mastered it was incredibly rewarding to drive.

The KTM by comparison is like hitting the easy button. Within a mile on my test ride I was flicking the thing around corners. Light clutch, low gearing, and 65lbs lighter than my Monster. It feels more playful and less serious than the Monster. However in terms of quality and looks there is no comparison.

Good luck,

[krolik]

1st bike was a '87 CBR 600 Hurricane.

 
2nd Bike was a '95 FZR 600

 
Then the '93 Monster 800 Dark.