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Contemplating a 2013 Monster 696

by Natalie
(Ca)

Looking for some critics here:

I sold my Buell XB12ss Lightning Long a week ago. I'm ready for my 3rd bike purchase and am strongly considering a Monster 696. I'd really like the opinions of fellow women riders. Men have different perspectives than us and while that's great I really want this bike reviewed and picked apart by female owners or riders. I want to hear it all...the good, the bad and everything in between. Is this bike worthy of road trips? Comfort? Etc...

The reason for selling my Buell is simple. Life is short and I wish to own many bikes before I have to hang up my helmet. :)

Thanks

Comments for Contemplating a 2013 Monster 696

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Jan 27, 2013

ducati
by: Robin (Madison WI)

you are going to LOVE it. so cal is a great place for a nice bike like that. i spent some time in laguna beach a while back, before i had my bike. beautiful.
we have too much snow here in wisconsin, but i'll be back on the road in april, i hope.
enjoy your new bike!

Jan 18, 2013

696 has been ordered!!
by: Natalie, Ca

Thank you, Robin for your reply-

I did it! My 2013 Monster 696 will be ready for me to pick up in the beginning of February from Pro Italia in So. Cal.
It will have the Dharma custom paint on the tank, the enhanced performance kit, Duc side bags and top pod, risers and ya baby- heated grips! Even after the sale of my 2 other bikes I still owe a balance. It will be so worth it. After trying out one I was sold. I'm planning on having Spencer mod my seat at some point.

I miss having a bike and riding sooooo much

Jan 07, 2013

ducati
by: Robin (Madison WI)

I have a 695 and I've also had some hand/wrist discomfort that i didn't have with my last bike (Honda). 70+ horsepower is plenty for me. haven't had a ride longer than 200 miles or so yet. it does take a few minutes to warm up, no big deal for me. i haven't had any maintenance issues so far that are different from any other bike, but it does need scheduled desmo valve adjustments every 7500 mi or so for a few hundred $.
For me, it's incredibly fun, handles like a dream, plenty of power and I love the esthetics. I have no regrets and I haven't gotten the bug for a new bike as long as I've had it.
Good luck with your decision!

Nov 11, 2012

Monster 696
by: Anonymous

Hi! I don't know much about Buells and I've never ridden one, but I looked up the specs for yours and I'm thinking the 696 may feel a bit underpowered compared to what you're used to. Not sure if you'd ever consider the 796.

I'm kind of a new rider and I love my 696. It's super light and fun in the twisties. Just about every time I go out, someone has something to say about it.

Long-trip wise, I've only done about 270 miles max in a day. I definitely felt it in my wrists and back after that. I've heard good things about the touring seat though. Unfortunately I'm too short for it and have to use the short seat instead.

The only major complaint I have with it is that it takes FOREVER to warm up in the mornings. Even if it's 90 degrees out, I have to use the fast idle lever on it for about 5 mins before it's willing to go anywhere. Other than that, I wouldn't change a thing.

Good luck with your search! I recommend doing a test ride if at all possible.

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