I had a 2001 ZX6R that had an untimely death in 2003 where I had a little 50MPH lowside. Bike down the reveen on Blue River road. I was wearing full gear (pants, boots, jacket, gloves, helmet) and only suffered a broken hand and a bruised rib.
I then took a hiatus from sport bikes and grabbed a Vstar 650 Custom for $3k. Rode it for a few years and sold it for….$3k! woot!
The sport bike bug bit me again and I picked up a Honda 600RR in 2008; sold her in 2011 after a lot of love and fun, and one track day.
Now the bike itch has come back. I’m nearly certain I’m finally going to stay focused and buy a Ducati. 90% a Monster. I’ve always been a fan; from the 620 to now. I test road the newer 1100 and 696 monsters about 2 years ago – wow. So much fun. 1100 has a LOT of torque. Probably more than I need on the street. Love that they came out with a 796 model, and they decided to go with the single sided swing arm.
I’m hopeful to pick one up either this year or next. My price range, and fun factor has me pointed primarily at the S2R800. And most 2V Ducs for that matter.
Though my heart still loves the 620/690s.