Wanna buy » upgrade from a monster for long rides worth the cost?

[iamBrian]

Ok, so I'm interested in upgrading to the 1200 (specific version undecided). I am currently riding a '11 Monster 796abs. The main reason for the change is to do some longer touring, ie. cross country - coast to coast. The Monster I'm sure has enough power but I'm more concerned about the ergonomics etc. My main thought is; is it worth upgrading to the Multi or just pour some money into the monster to make ergo better and add bags etc. My dealer is going to arrange a test ride of the '12 Pikes Peak Multi soon as I can get enough time off work.

At this point I'd appreciate any thoughts current/past Multi/Monster owners have.

Thanks in advance,

Brian

[mmustaja 2004 1000 DS (Red)]

Go ahead! I made the change from M600 to MTS1000 and very happy since. I got exactly what you are looking after, more long ride comfort and capability. 1200 is even better on ergonomics AFAIK. Monster was too tight, allowing basically only one riding position which is bad on long rides. One thing which I miss in aircooled Monster is its beautiful simplicity, looks and feel. Monsters are the most pure naked bikes anything can be.

[kope999R 2010 1200S (Red)]

changed from a ST4S ... the bike is in a different league.. ST4S, a good bike in its own right, feels like a truck.. all comes down to riding position which is outstanding...
think of the MTS1200 as a very comfy tourer that likes to be ridden like a Husq 630...

Alone? 2 up + 35kg luggage? brilliant in both cases...

grtz

Koen

[Habanero 2006 1000S DS]

you'll forget the Monster immediately, never look back, and wish you had done it sooner..

[The Duchess of Desmo 2014 1200S PP]

I think you will be impressed when you ride the Multi . The ride position is gr8 gives lots of advantageous height to view the road and possible overtakes

[kuyohtay 2009 1100S (White)]

I traded up my 2001 Monster 900 for an '06 MTS 1000S in 2009. Never looked back, but wished I kept it for around town grocery jaunts. Just because it was a rare "Metallic" edition and I put so much into it: $$, heart, and time.

I think going UP from a Monster 796 to a 1200 is a big leap. Not that it is unmanageable, but a VERY significant change:

• More Power (Gobs and Gobs more!)
  Better Handling
  Safer
  Better Suspension (+travel/ adjustable on all models)
  Excellent electronic aids (improved from 796)
  Better looking
  Made for touring

Or you can trade it in for a used 07-09 MTS 1100S (with extended warranty) and have some cash for the trips you want to take!

I did the '09 MTS 1100S this year and will probably trade up to a used 1200 Standard w ABS in early 2013.

If you are thinking about it - then do it if you can afford it. You will never look back, only with good memories.


Ed.

[t-bills 2011 1200S (Red)]

The decision has already been made. If you are going on a test ride, then the decision has obviously been made. It is nearly impossible to test ride this bike without writing a check. In my opinion, anybody who can afford one should own one.

[adb]

Or, you can do what I do... I have them both!! I have a M696 for around town and short rides, and the '04 Multi for open road touring. A perfect combination, IMHO. I'll have to admit, I enjoy the Multi more. It's more comfy, and goes just as fast. If I had to choose (and thank God I don't have to), I'd go with the Multi. The Monster is NOT a long distance touring machine... not after you've ridden on a Multi anyway. If the Monster's paid for, keep it, unless you need to sell it to buy a Multi. If you like long rides, get the Multi!!

[zemurray 2012 1200]

The decision has already been made. If you are going on a test ride, then the decision has obviously been made. It is nearly impossible to test ride this bike without writing a check. In my opinion, anybody who can afford one should own one.

I definitely agree with this

[ducdoug 2011 1200S (White)]

Besides my wife's 2012 BMW R1200R, she also has a Monster 1100 EVO. The Monster makes a great hooligan bike, but it is not a long distance tourer. No range, ergos suck for 500+ mile days, no luggage space, etc. Great for tearing up the local back roads and going to bike night, but a totally different bike for a different purpose.

The Multi? If you ride it, you'll understand...take your checkbook, it will prevent you from making two trips to the dealer in one day.

[TATTOO DESMO 2015 1200S (Red)]

The decision has already been made. If you are going on a test ride, then the decision has obviously been made. It is nearly impossible to test ride this bike without writing a check. In my opinion, anybody who can afford one should own one.

I definitely agree with this

i wood say the same myself' . it handles and rides great and won' : you have re den one you will wont one!!!!!

[MartinHKDC 2004 1000 DS (Black)]

Echoing what the many have said above - chopped in a M600 for a MTS1000.

I miss the Monster for hooliganing around town but the Multi does just about everything else much, much better....and your neck and shoulder muscles will thank you on long distance days!