Ive had the new 1000DS from new (late '03) and am well pleased with it. Have had a few issues all electrical and all repaired under warranty by Ducati - New ECU, a dodgy earth and a relay switch.
Other than that Ive fitted a K&N air filter and after market cans which combined make a lovely sound - my windows rattle when I start her up on tickover! I think the bike is much better value than a jap 600 and has torque everywhere. No its not a sports bike like a 916 but you can still hustle at a fair lick.
Just one thing I do find though is the bike is not designed for long rides or touring, gets very uncomfortable after a few hours in the saddle. But then its oozes character, gorgeous marchensini wheels, brembo brakes, great style, simple air colled v twin and nice analogue clocks etc etc. I get many admiring looks around town too - cant be bad!
