this thread has made me think of learning to ride a MC for my US roadtrip. I think it would be a hell of a lot cooler than sitting in a shitbox all day

 

I just got back from checking out these bikes in person at Spectrum Motorsports in Irvine. They were really nice. They had one in each color. At first, I was really taken by the matte black demo bike they had. It had an upgraded exhaust and a bunch of carbon fiber parts. Then I saw the red one and just caved. So, if I get it, I will definitely get a red one - bone stock.

They came down to $10,000 out the door on the bike - about an $800 savings off of MSRP. They were not looking to deal much on the bike. My wife made me promise that I would take the weekend to sleep on it.

I'll keep you guys posted!

 

awesome awesome awesome.
It'll be a restless weekend!

 

Just order it and take delivery on Thursday next week and you're safe...."yeah love, I've been thinking about it" etc etc . Just make sure you'll stay safe out there!

 

On my bike or from my wife??

 

I'm 6'4 and I ride a 916...

Never had a problem with any of the Duc line.

 

As Choke said, look at the aprilia Tuono 1000 R. The ergonomics are surprisingly comfortable, better then the Monster IMHO, and the bike looks great. Too bad it doesn't have ABS.

 

Dana, if you have time, come down to the Long Beach Convention Center tomorrow to the International Motorcycle Show. I'll be there probably around mid day. Let me know if you want to go.

 

1. No. A 696 is by no means a slouch, but it's not the kind of power that will catch a rider out with sloppy throttle control. You'll have fun.

2. Most states have a permit that allows you to ride so many months before having to get your license. I can only speak from Experience with NY, CT, and MA though. Look into what they allow you to take the test on as well. In CT you can use a dirtbike, which makes the driving course much easier to do than on a sportbike.

3. There are a ton of great classes and track days that you can do to sharpen your skills. Start frequenting some bike forums to get the good info!

4. A Desmosedici. Joking...any relatively modern 600cc is a great bike to learn on. You will pick up the basics faster and learn how to ride better if you opt for something even smaller...the only downside to that is the fact that you will end up selling it once your skills eclipse the bike.

5. Seems about right for that bike.



As stated, wear your gear. Denim jeans disintegrate in .4 seconds when they hit pavement. Protect yourself.

Also, get frame/clutch/swing arm sliders. These little plastic bolt ons will save you a TON of money when the bike goes down...and it will go down.
They essentially protrude just far enough to protect vital bits that would otherwise hit the ground in a crash.

 

BAM!

Woke up on Sunday morning and what was in the driveway?? OH YEAH! I often blame my wife for not buying a Scud and reigning in my crazy spending. But she did me right today - God I love her! A total shock. I had pretty much decided against getting it - I want to be fiscally responsible now that I am starting my own firm. She acted like that was cool - patted me on the back and said "you can get one next year - and never let on. She bought it on Saturday while she was out running errands and had it delivered on Sunday morning. What a woman!

Thanks for all of the advice guys. I guess I will really need it now!

Teaser pic! More to come.