If you want a bike that you don't have to keep high in the rev range, stick with a V twin of some kind. The Duke's don't have the overall horsepower of the Jap bikes, but sound and look better in my opinion. They handle well, but aren't able to keep up with a CBR900RR or YZF R1 or the like. Unless you buy the 999SP or similar. One of my favourites is still the 851 Ducati.
Find your local dealer and take one for a test ride. It is a bit like owning an Italian car, you don't buy them because they are the best at anything. You just fall in love with it.
You forgive it, it's failing and appreciate the style and class that it has.
http://www.ducati.com/index.jhtml;js...2SFFAKFUIHUIV4
And they've just beaten Valentino Rossi in the GP!