Hello, everyone. Ok so I've been riding dirt bikes most of my life and swearing I wouldn't buy a motorcycle to ride on the street until I knew I could keep a cool head and not ride like a maniac. I've always liked the craftsmanship that goes into a Ducati, I REALLY dig the sound of a dry clutch, and desmodromico is a such a cool and different concept so I realize Ducati is the bike for me. I've always liked the Monster 900 but am flexible. I'm looking for a naked bike with enough balls so that I won't get bored once my skill level improves. I plan to ride the bike a few times a week and for weekend rides in So-cal area. I want a used bike and want to spent around $5-6000. Any tips, things to look for, good sources of technical information? Clubs in my area (Santa Monica/West LA)? Thanks for info, its great to be aboard. MIKE [evil]
Welcome Mike! :)
The M900 is a great model, if you find one in good shape I think you'll really enjoy it. [thumbsup]
If you haven't already, I'd highly recommend taking an MSF class - although I'm sure you'll be fine with the bike handling, they teach a lot about street survival skills.
Check in with your local board, SoCal Monsters (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?board=21.0), when you get a chance. You'll find info about group rides and can ask about specific bikes for sale locally. Also make sure you check out our Monsters for Sale (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?board=9.0) board.
Lots of good tech info here in our Tech (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?board=4.0) and Tutorial (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?board=54.0) boards.
Also, feel free to post up questions about a specific model or a specific bike you're looking at in General (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?board=1.0), and people will give you suggestions of things to check out.
Good luck, looking forward to your updates.