My dealer carries Triumph, BMW, and Ducati. A few years ago, a young (25 year old) gentleman was in the shop, inquiring about a 998 Duc. I was standing nearby as the salesman, who was also a partner in the shop, engaged the prospect in a conversation. The usual questions regarding riding experience, current bike, experience, etc were posed. The prospect had: no riding experience at all, never owned a bike, no MC license, and had just that day taken the written test for his permit. The salesman discreetly suggested that the prospect start out on a less potent MC, and was very willing to discuss good starter bikes. The prospect was adamant- "If you won't sell me what i want I will take my business elsewhere" was the response. Back and forth they went, and the dealer went so far as to offer the prospect a new Bonneville, which he would take back after 90 days, and apply the cost to the Ducati. "Not gonna happen" says the prospect. The dealer finally relented, after considerable discussion, cash was proffered for the full price of the beautiful Ducati, which was destroyed a day later. The prospect was relatively unscathed, but his new Dainese suit, Arai lid, etc were all trashed. My point is, if you let people make their own informed decisions, you've done your part. This bloke had every opportunity to follow the path most intelligent riders take, yet he had to make that fashion statement with the Ducati....so be it....