Just picked up a brand new 2012 Ducati Monster 696 ABS last week and found this forum. The Monster is my second bike, I came off of a Kawasaki Ninja 250R which I've owned for a year, so I'm still a novice rider. So far the transition from 250 to 696 has been pretty smooth and I'm loving the Monster so far. Nice to meet you all and ride safe, mahalo from Hawaii. 

Welcome!

Which island? You might do well to consider a 14T front sprocket ASAP. Will make riding there much easier. The bikes come geared quite tall to pass EC drive-by sound tests and emissions. Also, if your dealer hasn't already, have him adjust the rear preload/sag for your weight. The bikes come with that set for a light rider and a lighter passenger. Right now you probably have little movement back there, right?

Rubber side down!