As noted in the subject line, my name is Bob Porter. I'm in my mid 50's and have been a rider for 35+ years - both off and on road. I currently have a Kawasaki Concours 1400, 2011. I'm research my first Ducati. Currently considering Monsters in the 800 to 1100 cc range, or similar Duc's. Since my 1400 is fully faired with hardbags and good for two up riding with my wife, I'm looking for a solo riding bike for shorter trips. I've been a fan of Ducati's for a long time, and have decided to get one and 'join the club.' Your active forum is one reason I think this is a good idea. I'm also an avid cyclist (bikes) both on and off road and run a club here in central Florida of over 100 riders.

Anyone in the Lake County or Orange County area that would like to offer some advice to me would be appreciated.

Welcome

You'll find a Duc that suits you and then we'll start spending money on it

Have you chosen a model yet?

Thanks for the reply.

As for a choice - I've narrowed it down to a 796 or 1100 Evo. 2011 and newer. I looked at a nice 796 today and I'm going to look at an 1100 in a few days and decide.

I'm in my 50's, I don't need a crotch rocket - I'm looking for a bike with personality that I can ride on the weekends for a few hours at a time and enjoy. I'm 6'1", 200lbs, so I'm thinking the 796 might not have enough grunt in the long run - although they are a really nice bike! I know I can't go wrong!

Comments/suggestions are still quite welcome.

BP

Welcome
The 1100 will have nice suspension components as well, in addition to the bigger plant.

There's also now the HyperStrada - an 820cc water-cooled bike. You might have a look at that one while you're kicking tires.

Regarding folks on your area, you might have a look here:
http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?board=46.0
- The welcomes section doesn't get the highest traffic volume so going into the regional or just general sections should get more eyes on questions you may have.

there can be but one bp....

BP?



And I don't think he'll be trying to steal BP... though as you're bobspapa, does that mak you his pappa too?

On second thought.....I'm not going to tangle with anybody named Porter..... I saw the movie, and that guy was relentless.

What? You don't want to get hit in the mouth with a roll of quarters?

Only if it's Lucy Liu doing it.

A 796 with a 14T front sprocket will keep you happy solo. It's a bit more nimble than an evo..., but an evo if you like excess. 

By all means ride both of course. Buy the one which sings to you.