Got a mate keen for his first Duke.

[RIXSS]

Hi all and compliments of the season.
I've a good friend who's looking for a change of motorcycle scenery. He's owned a few Guzzis and currently straddles a Vmax which actively tries to evict him on most corners as they will.
Last year he rode my 900SS and of course loved it as you do. Being of the more upright seating inclined type, I suggested a 900 Monster might be an avenue worth exploring to better suit his needs and desires.
From a financial perspective, he'll be looking at an earlier model, probably pre '97. I read that post '95 machines have 750 heads and cams so I assume the earlier ones share the same lump as my '90 SS.
Anyone out there keen to offer advice or experience on these machines please? My 900 has 41FCR's amongst other mods. Pete likes the power so would the pre '96 engine be a better option for future modification or does it not really make much difference? Or modification aside: are there manufacture years best to buy, or even shy away from?
Most of his riding is motorway, backroad with a smattering of city work. Our wee city's not a problem tho as even my unnecessarily aggro SS can cope with day to day Dunners.
All thoughts and experiences greatly received.