Hey folks,
For those that remember me, I thought I'd let you know that I put down a deposit on a red 696 today.
I took a test ride and it was really cool to get back on a Monster - seems like you're sat over the front wheel with no fairing and that _low_ headlight, but the full view of the road gives a good sense of speed (I need to remember to look down the road though :angel: ).
Today was awesome riding weather here, and I knew I was going to be hooked into buying.
The demo bike only had 9 miles on so it didn't feel right to test the full rev range, but it was fun up to 80, and a small taste of the >6K rev range felt good. My previous 620 was a great first bike, but could sometimes feel that little bit lacking, so I'm hoping the small increase in power will put it in the sweet spot for general riding with the occasional raz at not-too-silly speeds.
I took a while to come round to the styling, it's a bit fussy with gimicky bits here and there, the headlight seems a bit low, and I'd like to see more of the engine, but I'm acquiring the taste. Despite that fussiness, I actually prefer it with that little 'bikini fairing' as it raises the styling at the front, somewhat compensating for the low headlight.
I definitely think it looks better in the metal.
Really enjoyed the ride, very comfortable, and, I'm no expert, but it felt like it handled really well. I also felt that the overall sound was better, but maybe that's 'cos I haven't heard that sound for a while.
Also, I noticed that the handle bars fit into those air intakes in the tank at full lock, so I guess the tank comes pre-dinged :-)
Anyway, the dealer will secure my place in the order delivery list on Monday, and I'm hoping to get it in May.
Now I just need to find somewhere to keep it. Is it too early to start thinking about mods? :
Cheers,
Nige
