I'm interested in buying a nice looking 1999 Monster 750 with 55000Km on the odometer. The current owner had the bike since 2012 and reported just regular maintenance was performed during his ownership. What are the most important things to check when I go and visit the bike? I've never owned a Ducati with more than 25000Km's, so for me 55000 is a huge number.
Looks very tidy! Probably better at this age to have been used rather than stored away assuming that the service schedule has been adhered to you should be good to go. If in doubt get a friend to go with you who knows what to look / listen for.
Valve clearances and belt were done last year. Every year regardless of milage he replaced engine oil and filter (Motul 7100 10W50) I'm aware of wiring problems around the headstock. I once got stranded on a borrowed M900 because the kill switch activated at every right turn. A wire broke inside the rubber tubing and caused a short. Bike was black frame with yellow body parts originally but the owner before last dropped it due to the 'beloved' spring loaded side stand. A dent in the steel tank caused by the Lh handle bar was repared and the opportunity taken to repaint the bike in a nice retro look. This was done 12 years ago so it will be easy to spot if this repair was done poorly. Original exhausts, cambelt covers and side panels come withy the bike. Its only 2000€ which can be a fair price. Bike is clean because its in Italy where the weather is better and salt is not used.
I've never had any problems with mine. Essential upgrades are reg/ rec - search the site for why, how to do it and fire pics... Great upgrades are Slipper clutch for far more controlled engine braking Led headlamp so you can actually see when riding at night Wonderful upgrades are -as usual- Nitron rear shock -transformational Any different front fork internals -bound to be waaay better Fun upgrades Front nose cone for a little less wind Carbon if its your thing You already have a cool paint job!
