Of the bikes you listed, I'd go w/ the Monster (1k or S4R model). These bikes look sweet and are quick and nimble, while being pretty comfortable. I had a Duc 00 750 SuperSport and loved it. They are air cooled, which makes them bulletproof...I would know. The 696 may be a little too tame for you from the RR, so the 1k would be better, IMHO. You can pick up one that is a few years old for around your price range and more-than-likely nicely modded as Ducati guys like to put some personal touches to them (Termis, carbon, rearsets, etc.) Plus, everyone loves Ducatis!