go for it!
Ive riden a few bikes (below 250) for many years, but after a long break from bikes I took the plunge in December this year, i bought a 749 Dark before I even passed my test (imagine that, having it sat in the garden just staring at it, not being able to ride!). Past the test, got insurance (1200 full comp, ouch) but hey, pay on installments. Then the servicing. Pity you cant pay them on installments either.
its fairly uncomfy to start with but your body moulds to it after a little while, otherwise get a monster, but either way, drive one first, then try a jap bike, and see how little they inspire. Plainly put, a ducati make you feel special by simply sitting on it, try that on a jap.
.. (jap 'bike' that is, not a japanese person, although you might be into that kinda thing, each to their own..)
[Edited on 8-4-2005 by sonic]