Totally agree with everything Phil w 6 said.
If you wanted all out speed you wouldn't be looking at a monster anyway of any kind. It's just not what they're about.
I've had literally 20 odd jap bikes of all sizes and types over a 5 year period and none have captured me like my 600 Monster has. I sold a ZX9 for my Monster and i wouldn't go back. Not for a lot. Let's not forget these bikes handle phenomenally well with their decent suspension and Brembo Brakes and that L twin engine, its hard to put your finger on it but it talks to you unlike any other bike ive ever experienced. It's got an incredibly pleasing individual mechanical sound. Even other v twins don't sound like it.
Riding a Monster is a very rewarding ride too, it doesn't matter it's not the fastest thing out there, not by a long shot, but it gives you something while riding it, something that I'm yet to feel on any other bike.
They also make excellent road bikes for someone that wants that little something a bit more special and are very easy to ride.
I am by no means a professional mechanic but armed with a Haynes manual and a basic set off tools have performed both valve adjustments & cam belt changes with minimal fuss.
If your not obsessed with speed and care more about just getting out on your bike and riding than taking tenths out of your lap times at Brands then give the little monster a look. I did and I'm very happy, very happy indeed...
