Hello all.  I've been riding off and on for 30-ish years, mostly trail riding.  Most of my riding these days is commuting to work and the occasional weekend backroad jaunt.  I've done a few touring-type rides, but honestly found that if I have to go somewhere over a 2-3 hour period, I prefer to ride in my truck, radio on, wife and kids with me, and the ability to enjoy a dip of Copenhagen.  And, I'm pretty sure my dog would not be happy riding with me on my bike...although I've seen it done.  I wanted a "status" bike...you know the type, something that has meaning when you say you have it.  People say "I have a Harley/Ducati/BMW..." and it has meaning.  If someone says, "I have a Yamaha...", it just doesn't carry the same.  Nonetheless, I've wanted a Monster since I first noticed them back in 07'.  Having recently spent the better part of a year vacationing for Uncle Sam in the desert, I had a lot of time to research and lust for a Monster and I really thought the 2012 796 would be the direction I'd go and would be perfect for a daily rider.  But, a used 1100 ABS came up on cycletrader and the deal was too good to pass.  So, there it is, I'm the happy owner of a Monster 1100.

welcome to the board. hope you enjoy the monster! with a little practice, you should even be able to have that lipper while you ride.

I'm the same clown who turns to my driver's side window to spit out a seed only to realize step #1 is to roll down the window THEN #2 spit...I had it backwards.  I'm afraid of what I might do with a helmet and visor!  The good news is, I'm the guy sitting up front of your airline flight!  I did see a guy in a half helmet riding a bagger and smoking.

Welcome.

There's some other folks in your general area. Check out
http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?board=27.0
For geographically relevant shenanigans