Hello

Novice rider, took MSF in June
Riding Iron 883 for past 3 months, put 1,000 miles on her so far. Seem to be doing well and riding cautiously (36, professional, married, kids, etc, have done MSF and read 2 of Hough's safety books)

Able to afford and care for 2 motorcylces/insurance. Will end up keeping the 883 cruiser anyways BUT I'm bikecurious, and want to ride on a naked bike as well

Locally there is a 2007 Ducati Monster 695 with only 700 miles
he wants $4,000 USD

He is 2nd owner, never had time to ride
Fluids changed, but all else is stock aside for shorty exhaust

thoughts?

Replace cambelts, replace tires, ride.

Yes.

Agreed with above.  Buy, make Speeddog's suggested changes, and ride.


FYI - It likely won't be anywhere nearly as comfortable as your 883, but you can do some ergonomic modes to help out.  Seat upgrade is popular, while some people like to change bars (either go to clip-ons or by adding risers to the stock bars, depending on your size/preferred riding position).

I see you found you way here... care of my link in Reddit?

If it is running and your not having to revive it then I say jump on it. It is a great bike for someone at your experience level and you won't quickly grow tired of it.
I'll predict that the 883 will go on the for sale list and perhaps replaced by a Dyna.. the 883 and little monster are to close together in what they do and the lil monster will do it better.