Maybe its my arse but four hours is the comfort threshold, even with the comfort seat, and then I need a days rest. I wouldn't tour with my MTS...

Apart from the height all your other minus points can be tweaked...

I actually managed 200 miles to the tank through sheer luck (no petrol station). I am quite a fast driver so that didnt seem to affect it... Wouldn't want to do it again though (everything on the dash is blinking etc)

I think the MTS 620 would be ok to get as a beginner. it isnt a terribly fast bike but it is still fun... And didn't Ducati bring this one out so that beginners can have Dukes???