Update on my friends search...
After him reading, looking and listening to my suggestions, he settled on a new Ducati Monster Plus. He got it for a great price and it was delivered last week. He had to attend a MSF course to get his license endorsement. I went to his place yesterday to give it its initial break-in run since he is too green to do it at this stage. I think the bike is perfect for him. About 400 lbs wet, it is very flickable. Not sure I like the throttle by wire...it had a different feel to it, but could be the mode I was in. Lesson learned...when someone wants a red Ducati they will not be swayed. And yes, @p6x, sitting next to a red Ducati my Griso looks more orange than red.