New to bikes and getting a monster!!!

[cooper01]

Hello, my name is Richard and I am a PhD student about to start at Oklahoma State University.  I have been riding my families dirt bikes for many years and finally want to start riding on the road.  It has taken me two years of looking on the internet to finally make the decision that I want to purchase a bike and determine which one I want.  After all that there is no other bike for me than a monster.  I absolutely love the concept of a naked bike for many reasons.  I have also of course considered other naked bikes like the SV650, but Ducati has always been a dream of mine.  I am 6'4 and for that reason would like to know if the small 695 and 696 are to small for me?  I would ideally like a 900, but I also don't want to much power for my first road bike.  Maybe a 750 or 800.  I would be grateful for any suggestions about the size I should be as a first bike.  Thanks in advance for reading my post!

[herm]

welcome to the board Richard. there is a little difference in ride height among the varous monsters, but not that much.
the 695 (and 696) make very good power, i would guess close to that of the older 900's.
good luck in your search.

edit: an even bigger consideration for someone your size would be the suspension, i would think.
look for a bike with an adjustable suspension, or plan on upgrading that soon.

[Scotzman]

Welcome! Being so freakin' enormous, I think the 695/696 would feel pretty cramped. I'm 5' 8" and the 695 is pretty comfy, even though I've never been on any of the bigger SR's or the '09 1100, they might be a better fit. If you can test ride one, that would definitely let you know. Also, since it has come up recently, Ducati's are a little bit more expensive parts and maintenance wise, but you won't regret owning a fine Italian machine.

Anyways, I know more vertically blesses people will be able to tell you how there bike fits.

[stopintime]

Welcome

As a 6'4"er myself, I suggest the 696 (far) over a 695. The seat/footpeg ergos are much better on the 696.

If you want a used Monster (695, 750, 800, 900, S2R800) there are affordable foot peg lowering kits to make more room for your legs. Lowering effect about 30mm.  http://www.twistedthrottle.com/trade/productview/4902/658/
The 20mm lower seat of the 695 can be replaced with a "normal" seat for about $200. (a bit less for a used one)

+1 on new springs front and rear, at least after a while, when you discover how much better the bike could be if it is set up for you. Of course that can take a while.

[somegirl]

Welcome to the DMF!   Is there somewhere nearby (dealer) that you can sit on some bikes and try them out for size?

Best of luck in grad school.