I don't have either of the bikes you are looking at, but I do have an S2R800 and an '08 D675SE, the latter of which sharing the same basic engine as the ST.  I would have to say that the S2R has much fewer heat related problems than the triple does, and the under seat mid pipe routing of the Daytona gets down right nasty hot on your legs if you get stuck in moderate traffic. The ST has the same mid pipe routing as the Daytona, so I would expect that to carry over.  All things being said and done, the S2R makes a much better commuter bike, but the Daytona is much more fun to ride.

Instead of evolution I would call it Mutation 

I'd go with the triple.  Looks great and has what, about 50% more HP?

The biggest problem you will have is finding a Street triple in the US, they have not imported many here.

Better option is to pick up a used Speed Triple for the same money and have a real hooligan bike.   

I

Is this your first bike, or your first 600cc bike??  The Triumph is really not suitable for a first bike.  It's very fast, very powerful, and could kill a new rider very easily.  Some would say the Duc isn't a great first bike either, but that depends a lot on the rider's maturity and self-control.

Wow, no one has mentioned the performance difference between these two bikes! The ST will run circles around the 696.

If you have any riding experience at all, go with the ST or an S4R, if you can afford it.

Quote from: mmakay on June 18, 2008, 09:53:41 AM
The Triumph is really not suitable for a first bike.  It's very fast, very powerful, and could kill a new rider very easily. 

I disagree with this statement, any bike can get you into trouble if you ride stupid.

hi guys,
The rear shock travel on 696 is 148mm. if we reduce it to 130, will the seat slope reduce?

Quote from: Hawk_Duc on June 18, 2008, 01:02:57 PM
The ST will run circles around the 696.

If you have any riding experience at all, go with the ST or an S4R, if you can afford it.

Yes.  My thoughts exactly.   

Quote from: 707soldier on June 17, 2008, 05:21:12 PM
Test ride both and see for yourself what you like. I did and bought the 696.
No regrets, loving every minute of it. Good Luck with you search.

hey soldier,
so could you tell me what were the shortcomings on teh ST3 that made u buy the 696.
appreciate.

on the other side....
in a Triumph froum...

http://www.triumphrat.net/street-triple-forum/86735-street-triple-vs-ducati-monster-696-a.html

regards, fLAVIO