A worrying trend?

I always look through the Ducati ads on ebay-UK just to lust after models I'd never buy, and thought I'd specifically look at the Mono 698 list because I do like the concept of singles as well as v-twins. There were so many for sale with only a few hundred miles on them, indicating purchases made with the heart and not the head, leading to disappointment. Given these bikes can't all have had mechanical issues, I do hope Ducati is planning 698 versions that are easier to live with.

Interesting point Nick.
I'm sure the 698 'is what it is' - A mental big single for hooligans (apologies all) i.e. not a plush tourer, not an eco-commuter, not bad -just a horse for a certain course. Maybe some buyers didn't appreciate that.

I grew up thinking you have to save up for a bike and think carefully what you want.
Now it seems, many just hand over a couple of hundred quid, sign on the dotted line of the PCP contract, and ride away on some fancy bling, adding monthly payments to the rest of their debts.

When they find that it's too frantic, too small for 2-up, not a motorway muncher, they take a couple of £K hit and buy another shiny thing. Maybe.
As you say - buying with the heart, not the head.

Same story with the DesertX (I thought about, but cooled on getting one myself) - There are so many out there with minimal miles and stack of accessories. Probably not 'bad' bikes, but clearly not living up to the buyers expectations.
Good news for potential used buyers.

Have you had a dealer test ride of the 698 yet?
You could pick up a used 'as-new' for a bargain this winter. . . . . .

Worrying? Heck, that sounds like a buying opportunity for connoisseurs and the curious.

I had some early regrets but I continue to warm up to the bike. I immediately fell in love with the front brake and handling, but the character of the throttle & motor was another thing. Addition of the airbox cover, sprint filter, and quick shifter really woke up the bike, so now I wonder how much better it feels with a full exhaust and a remap.

I fell in love with my 690 Enduro about 1/10 km after leaving the dealer. I could hoon that bike around town without breaking the speed limit, but the 698 is fast(er?) and it wants/needs to be flogged ... it really eggs one on. I've started using rain mode in a doubtful attempt to moderate my commutes, but I could still do with a lot more damping. So it can be mildly frustrating in the city, but definitely a happy camper in the twisties.

This video is not me, but it's a great example of being egged on by the bike:

The 698 is brilliant for the mission it was designed for.

If that's not your mission, then move on.