I have a 2011 M796 and just crossed the 700 mile mark. I did the 600 mile maintenance myself which was pretty easy. Now I have the idiot maintenance light on all the time.
I agree with the stance and the feel of this bike. After 25 years of riding street bikes, I broke down and got my first duc. I knew the reputation of ducs with respect to maintenance and knew I would be frustrated after the purchase but knew the ride would offset it.
I pushed my Japanese bikes pretty far. My 86 Ninja had over 70K miles on it. Only a couple of valve jobs. No major repairs, just standard maintenance. My GSXR had over 30K miles on it and not one valve job (doesn't mean it didn't need one). My VTX had 12K miles on it and no repairs or early maintenance.
I am seeing injection/valve issues already at 700 miles. The workshop manuals are sub-par compared to others. I will be having my first experience with warranty/service very soon.
I don't regret my purchase, but I am not sure I see the quality people talk about in an Italian made bike. I do understand the uniqueness of these bikes due to the low volume production.
Jury is still out on whether I'll stay with a duc, but I have bought matching gear so I will keep it a while.
Thanks,
Jim
