After taking the MSF Basic Rider course a month ago and getting my license, I finally pulled up the cash for a motorcycle. My heart was set on a BMW, like the F650GS or the older Dakar model, but they seem to keep an extreme resale value. About the only ones I could afford were broken and from the 70’s. So realizing my limitations, I started to look at some Honda or Yamaha bikes to find something reasonably priced that I could comfortably afford. There are a million Honda’s around these parts, especially from the mid 80’s, but I wanted something a bit more modern and without the issues that can come up with a 20 year old machine. So when I came across a 1999 Ducati Monster, for a reasonable price, I figured it was at least worth a look. And what a look it turned out to be.The bike is in perfect condition, with 2800 miles, and an asking price of $3350. It was apparent that the bike had been stored for a number of years, which is rather obvious from the low miles. My guess was that it had only been ridden extensively recently, but the engine started without effort and the bike ran nice and strong. The seller had receipts for the battery being new this year and that seems to be the only thing that was replaced. The tires were good, but I will probably replace them next spring. A little ride down the street made me sure that this was a bike worth its price. The seller also had a center stand for the bike, which I talked him into including, so I took his asking price.
So with a down payment, the bike is mine. I should have the balance paid in full in tomorrow or Wednesday, and if I’m lucky, I’ll be able to hit the road this weekend. Pictures will surely come once I get the bike.