So, I'm thinking of moving up from my DRZ -SM. I went and looked at the 690 SM (2007) and new Duke at a dealer (test rode the SM).
Looking at the Duke, it looks like you either drop the exhaust or cover it with dirty oil when you open the drain plug. Of course the 2 filters look like they'll cover the sides quite nicely also.
The SMC (which is the model I would like, along with everyone else!) looks as if the exhaust blocks one of the filters, thus requiring you to drop the exhaust to change the filter.
Please tell me this ain't so! The dealer remarked "just let us do it!"
Also, I'm reading lots of talk over here about big engine rebuilds by 8,000 miles.
Am I off track, or am I looking at a bike that's a PIA to own? I've already been there, done that with Ducatis, and don't really want to go back down that road!