Monster 696 Test Ride

[COR]

I unexpectidly test rode the 696 yesterday.

Initial reaction from a mate with me was how short and radical it looks compared to the older monster. She's even thinking about taking one out herself ... and she doesn't like retro!

Sitting on it it feels completely different to my 6 year old 620sie, having a shorter tank bringing you closer to the handlebars so feels more upright and being lower to the ground... I almost tripped over my own feet several times on stopping, finding the ground sooner than I expected!

Engine braking doesn't feel as dramatic as my old monster and I'm not convinced that the brakes are as sharp either... maybe just that the new one hasn't bed in yet. Upward gear change needed some force but again that could be the case of new bike and needing some adjustment for my little woman feet!

That being my negative comments out of the way, I would say I was quite impressed with the way it handles. The ride itself is smooth and the pick up between gears is responsive. The suspension is a noticable improvement on my old bike (I purposely rode it through all the potholes, manhole covers and worn road surfaces to try it out) and it tips into corners so easily. The clutch is light and easy so should be less painful around town and for little woman fingers. Mirrors are on fixed stems (as I found out ... no I didn't break it!), just the glass mirrors themselves are moveable by tilt. They are slim but adequate. Being an accompanied ride I couldn't try out the small insignificant screen but didn't notice any windblast. Nothing springs to mind re the seat so couldn't have been bad although I see that a touring seat is available and with height not being an issue may be worth it if you suffer from numb bum syndrome!

I'm giving it some thought as to whether or not I want to change my trusty old bike for one of these. I'm thinking another test ride is required to help me decide.

Anyone fancy making me an offer? 2002 (02) 620sie red 18k fully serviced (front forks serviced last summer and new chain and sprocket 2k ago) Mot mid June. Includes Ducati Performance (Remus) carbon hi-levels, DP carbon belly pan, DP rear-sets and Venturer luggage system (mounting and rack only - I'd like to keep the bag as they are universal fit). Fantastic condition and totally reliable, owned, ridden, cared for and loved by one carefull lady owner. No reason for sale other than do I fancy treating myself to a new bike? Pics can be e.mailed if desired.