TDM900 vs Multistrada 1100s

[Feasty]

I've currently got a 2003 TDM900, great bike, nothing wrong with it and easy to maintain, I do the brakes/oil change and basics myself and think valve clearances/bigger engine maintenance will happen when it's needed and I get a problem.

But it is a bit middle of the road.
I'm a big guy and like the sit-up style bikes, and have recently come across Ducati Multistrada's and seen a 2010 1100s with just under 30k on the clock. I'm informed by many that it's a world of difference from the TDM and I won't look back. (Pics attached).

It had a Ducati annual service and belts 2 years ago and done about 100 miles since, the recent MOT advisory is 'rear suspension pin, bush or joint worn but not resulting in excessive movement'. The service light is flashing on the dash, but could be ignored or reset at a small cost of buying the equipment.

Now I'm concerned about the whole service/belts thing for this, am I walking into a high maintenance, high running cost bike? I spoke to a Ducati specialist garage and they say it's due another service as the belts need replacing every 2 years, and of course the desmo valve service will be needed - that's £500-£600 at least.

Do you think this is the usual case of dealers 'reading from a script' and actually the bike will last a couple of years without needing anything? Or should I be happy with my low cost TDM and stick with it.
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Previous: Aprilia Habana Retro 50cc (beauty), Yamaha SR125 (fell apart), Honda XR125 (nippy little commuter), Honda SLR650 (Geewhizz), Yamaha Diversion 900S (Smoooooth) written off courtesy of a stupid escaped horse.
(7 year gap), BMW F650 (Relaxing ride). Aprilia Caponord ETV1000 (Big and bold). Yamaha FZS600 (got me in trouble too quick!).
Current: Yamaha TDM 900 (Comfy, light but big, power when needed).

[Polarbear]

The dealers are going to go by the book service/belt/desmo wise just to cover their asses (and get more business). You aren't going to get one to say, 'Yeah, just leave it for another year'.

So, It's a Ducati, Italian stallion that's going to cost you way more in maintenance than a nice, unstressed Yamaha.

If you're willing to take that on, then yes. I know two people who have them and they adore them.
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Triumph Trophy Launch Edition

[Nobby the Bastard]

TBH even getting a white one isn't going to get anyone past thre fuglyness of it...
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trevor saxe-coburg-gotha:"Remember this simple rule - scooters are for men who like to feel the breeze on their huge, flapping cunt lips."
Triumph Sprint ST 1050

[A100man]

[Feasty]

Haha - I know what you mean, I think it's a bit of a Marmite bike, only this time I'm liking it!
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Previous: Aprilia Habana Retro 50cc (beauty), Yamaha SR125 (fell apart), Honda XR125 (nippy little commuter), Honda SLR650 (Geewhizz), Yamaha Diversion 900S (Smoooooth) written off courtesy of a stupid escaped horse.
(7 year gap), BMW F650 (Relaxing ride). Aprilia Caponord ETV1000 (Big and bold). Yamaha FZS600 (got me in trouble too quick!).
Current: Yamaha TDM 900 (Comfy, light but big, power when needed).

[blurredman]

[Feasty]

Well I've ended up sticking with my TDM after finding out service costs and frequencies for the Ducati.
I know we don't have to stick to going via dealer costs and intervals, I don't with my TDM as I do my own servicing. But the Ducati with its belts and more picky requirements I'd prefer having a professional do, and next service cost of £1400 has just put me off. I could buy another TDM for that!
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Previous: Aprilia Habana Retro 50cc (beauty), Yamaha SR125 (fell apart), Honda XR125 (nippy little commuter), Honda SLR650 (Geewhizz), Yamaha Diversion 900S (Smoooooth) written off courtesy of a stupid escaped horse.
(7 year gap), BMW F650 (Relaxing ride). Aprilia Caponord ETV1000 (Big and bold). Yamaha FZS600 (got me in trouble too quick!).
Current: Yamaha TDM 900 (Comfy, light but big, power when needed).