There have been absolutely no problems, except those I've caused myself - such as after just 2 days ownership and without having looked at the owners manual re removal of the fairing, dropping the key down beside the triple clamp and having it disappear into mechanical abyss... does anyone else ...

Blondie,
what oversize windshield are you talking about?
The DP comfort screen or another aftermarket brand?
Please advise.
Cheers,
Steve

Just keep saving!
No issues if you use it heaps within the warranty period.
There's no point in only travelling 5000kms in 2 years.
Try to do 40,000 kms and if it'll go, it'll go well before the warranty is up.
Good luck and......enjoy it!
Cheers,
Steve

Jbay,
the other option would be to spend some small change on re-valving the Trumpy suspension and go that way.
The other thing is take the MTS for a test ride (if you're permitted) and evaluate the differences. I found somewhere on the web a maxi enduro test between the Triumph, MTS, V-Strom and ...

Seriously would look at the Wee Strom as a first bike for heaps less than a Multi. Then, when you've whacked it a couple of times, you can upgrade to the new 2009/10 Multi!
Good luck.
Steve

I may get flamed for this:
what about a Suzuki DL650 V-Strom? I do wish Ducati would make an entry level 696 Multistrada? Who wouldn't? Pity, they are only doing the 696 Mostro as the only entry level bike.
Anyway, I also agree with SMunch, you don't need 1000HP bikes to enjoy the fundamental ...

Before I purchased the Multi, I had a deposit on a Wee Strom. I wanted something for commuting duties mainly and an occasional weekend getaway. When I test rode a 1000SDS at a Qld turismo, I was so impressed with it's slow speed handling and manoeuvreability that I thought the MTS was the one. And ...

do it!