New from Dallas (2008 695)

[yenski]

Hello from Dallas!

Been riding for just over a year. Recently sold my first bike - a 72 Honda CB350 that I bought bought non-running and fixed up.  Recently sold it thinking I'd take a break from riding.  Yeah right.  Time for a new (and modern) bike and it's going to be a Monster.

So, I am looking to buy my first Ducati Monster.  Almost bought a SV650 a couple of times since everybody raves about them, but it just isn't a Ducati. Been keeping my eye on Craigslist, Ebay and local dealers for a solid used Ducati that I won't have to put much money into for immediate service or repairs. Think I have found a bike to purchase from a local private seller that looks good, but would like to ask the opinion of the forum as to whether it looks like a good deal as I am struggling a bit with it.

Here are the details:
-2008 M695 Stock
-Black with red frame
-2300 miles
-Appears to be in good condition (never laid down, recent battery and oil change), but has a small scratch on front fender that looks easily repaired with touch up paint
-Seller is moving and wants to sell
-Seller is second owner (don't know much about first owner)
-Comes with 2 black keys and 1 red key
-NO CODE CARD
-NO OWNER'S MANUAL (but they are avail on ducati.com)
-Original sales price was $5800
-We are now down to $5400 and I can't seem to get it any lower

My concern is the lack of CODE CARD. I have done tons of research (on this forum and on the internet) on the code card, but cannot seem to find definitive information on how important it is if/when you have the red key. The bike was bought at a local dealership in North Dallas and even when the seller called to see if they had a copy of the code card, they didn't and claimed it was not a big deal. But I'm still concerned, especially if/when I decide to sell it eventually.

I was hoping to spend about $5000, but this bike has such low miles and is in good condition I am thinking it might be a pretty good deal at $5400.

Would appreciate any feedback on whether this deal is worth pursuing as my first Ducati and how concerned I should be about the the lack of code card.

Thanks,
Yenski

http://images.craigslist.org/3n23p13l85W35P15X0a4hba551c5f5bef18f2.jpg
http://images.craigslist.org/3m43pd3lf5T55W15X2a4h5cf81d8f90c71342.jpg

[somegirl]

Welcome Yenski!

I'd recommend posting up your questions in the General forum, as they will get better visibility there.

Another thing to be aware of with that bike is that it may be subject to plastic tank expansion issues, so just something else to be aware of.  Check out this thread for more info: http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=25074.0

Oh also when you get a chance, stop in and say hi to your local board, DFWM.

Good luck and keep us updated!