I had a friend with a 750 super Monster of some sort. It was pretty dang impractical, but the big surprise was how utterly unrefined the engine seems. I kinda expect an Italian bike to purr, but this thing rattled and shook like a tractor.
Definitely in the toy category, but a toy with quality components and 'character' to spare.
You wouldn't believe how comfortable it is to ride. Very smooth and little noticeable vibration. The seating position is very comfortable (I did add 1" bar risers). It corners like nothing else in the motorcycle world. The exhaust note is a super sound, that's an aftermarket set of GPR Italian slip on mufflers. I've had friends say they can hear the bike coming a mile away, not from the loudness but from the sound the Ducati produces.
The big "udder" under the motor is a catalyctic converter...but it's an empty metal box actually but for California it is a converter. I have since removed it and replaced it with a stainless set of pipes that connect directly to the slip on mufflers.
If you get a chance to test ride any of the newer Ducs, give one a try, I think you'll be surprised.