Assume cost for both bikes are equal and you had to choose one of the two? The new 696 or the S2R-800? Which one and why?
I don't want to poll the new Monster against the S2R-1000 coz of its dry-noodle and larger displacement. Unfair match.

696 for me since I already have a S4R which looks Just like a S2R800 with the single sided swing arm etc.

So if I was looking for something different with similar performance of the S2R800 I would get the 696.

the 696 geting to spacey looking more like a jap bike ,ceep the retro look not a space ship [moto]

At this point, the 696.  Hard to argue with better brakes and suspension and alleged better handling.  I have to say at this point since there are not enough on the road.  Aesthetically?  I'll take a 93 with the cute little elephants.

Having had a chance to ride  [moto] the new 696 over the weekend the thing is a ton of fun   for the "little"    monster.  It was super light  and kind of felt like there was nothing under you.

696 

I as well voted for the 696. Better brakes, lighter feel, upgrades will follow.

S2R 800.  Not advisable to buy the first model year of anything, so I wouldn't buy a 696.  Plus, there are a lot more mods out there currently for S2R 800 than the 696 since the 696 is brand new.  Lot's more know how on the S2R 800 on boards like this.

Saw the 696 in person... bike looks beautiful. I would mod the pipes... but the stock mirrors and blinkers are slick... and the tail... may not need a chop. The head light and tank are very hot... and the swing arm is artisticly done for a double sided.... anyhow... I would buy one. But, having bought the 848... and now having to wait till people make mods for it... and pipes... etc.... well, if you want it stock great. But you may have to wait for Arrow to make the full pipes... cause nothing sounds better on a monster than arrows.

S2R would have my vote on looks only, but I also hear the 800's were very reliable and had few issues ~ whereas I'm always leary of 1st year anything becuase there's generally some bugs to be worked out.

i think it all comes down to which your prefer stylistically since performance is about the same. I think the 800 looks better because it can be easily turned into a cafe racer with a set of clip-ons, but the 696 has potential too. Get whichever one you think looks better.

No-brainer for me.

I think I'd even take an Indiana over a 696.

untill a sssa 696 comes out, I'm all about the s2r

On paper?  ... Maybe the 696.

In real life?  ...   I'd have to stick with my S2R800

The 696 is probably a great bike but it's just too Japanese for me. I prefer a hot-blooded, slightly tempermental Italian personality anyday.

Quote from: PizzaMonster on May 19, 2008, 10:19:48 AM
I prefer a hot-blooded, slightly tempermental Italian personality anyday.

What makes you think the 696 won't have that Italian temperment? 

Crucial that you see them in person and preferably in the colors you like. One of them will speak to you more than the other.