Service the bikes properly and they are very reliable. OK, I'm only a weekend warrier and only when it's dry, but, have owned a number of Ducati over the last 6 years and apart from a snapped throttle cable they have all been perfect.
OK, my latest bike has leaking fork seals, but, they are Ohlin's so it is only to be expected
As for the service costs, shop around and try using the smaller dealers and authorised service outlets etc
If you have the filters done, oil, brakes and full check over you can get this done for around £220. Similar with a belt change for around £300.