Hi I'm a new rider from Doylestown, PA. (just north of Philadelphia).
Just bought a 2012 Monster 796 and I love it.
I wasn't sure if it was the best choice for a first bike, but I did my research and decided to go with it. I'm glad I did. I've been starting out slow on country roads and will work my way up to busier areas as I get more comfortable.
Now that I have a bike, I'm finding out how many people - many of whom I already know - either have bikes or had bikes in the past. It's definitely a conversation piece.
I've only had the bike for a month but I already have a list of questions - about techniques and upgrades - and I'm looking forward to getting advice from all of you here.
Thanks.
Welcome, from a "vintage" 796 rider; ME, not the bike. ;)
You probably still have some very nice roads in Bucks County. A bunch of us used to terrorize Rt. 32 along the Delaware on early Sunday mornings before the cops and tourists were out in full force and we used to have breakfast in New Hope (a sea of red) before the cops chased ALL the bikes out due to the noise from those other v-twins. :(
A Ducati group may still meet on Sundays in Lambertville, so you might want to check that out. All friendly and you don't have to keep up their pace. Maybe somebody at Ferracci's knows.
Have fun and watch the wet leaves!
Welcome, the 796 is an excelent bike and not a bad one even for a new rider as the power isn't insane and comes on in a predictable manner. Take it easy and get as much training as you can. Don't stop after passing the basic - ride-around-in-a-parkinglot-without-killing-yourself class [laugh] Trackday schools are fun [evil]