Hi all, a lurker here.

I might be buying a 2k1 SS750 (1700 miles) soon to replace my 2K3 EX500 (4000 miles). Nothing wrong with the EX, but it's just not me. I searched the forum and the Net, but didn't find much about the 750, aside from the well-known oil leak problem. What do you all think of it? The salesman is a very good friend of mine, so I trust what he says about the bike. It's selling for about $6000 or so. It originally sold for about $9200 if I'm not mistaken, so it seems to be a good deal. I was originally considering getting a 2k5 Monster 620 Dark and modding it with clip-ons, screen, etc....(about $7000 with the mods). As far as initial bike cost + insurance, the SS750 will cost about $500 less after 5 years than the Monster...the hp and torque of the 2 bikes sound similar on paper, with the SS750 being 4 years older.

Which would you get? Are there any other issues I should be aware of with either Ducati? My rides are usually: 1-3 hours, 1/2 twisties and 1/2 freeways (thus the need for a screen), 50-85mph (gotta love I-495 in MD), mostly solo rides but the wife will occasionally ride pillion. I've been riding for about 3 years, and been a road-cyclist for about 18. I'm 5'8", 160 lbs, male, athletic, MSF grad, like the sport-bike position, etc. Haven't had the pleasure of riding a Ducati before.

Thanks for your opinions.

Tarrant