Yup, your assessment is correct. The idle was set too low and caused the starter to stay engaged. Once I set the idle to 1400-1500 RPM the problem went away.
Someone else on the Ducati.ms board suggested this is how recent ducs work. The tech doesn't know this so I'll report back to him.

Now, my other problem I've just discovered is that the turn signal button is broken internally. There is a white plastic thing inside thats broken. Does anyone know if I can just replace this part? Seems a shame to have to replace the whole switchgear...

The best place to take it would be this place, Tim is very good and only about a half hour from you.If you need help getting it there,shoot me a private message.

Ric, thanks for the tip. I'll keep him in mind.

I managed to fix the turn signal button. I used a combination of crazy glue and plastex to weld/bond the broken pieces and it's as good as new now.

I just took the bike around the block to make sure things are where they're supposed to be. Talk about a BIG smile! The torque is something to behold. I'm used to Japanese bikes and this being my first ride on a Duc I might say I'm very impressed
I can't get enough of the snorting sound the intake makes...

Rick,

Can I do that to my Monster 620?

Tim

Sure,why not? The engine really doesn't miss them.It's not like you are changing the fi mixture or anything.They are there mostly to help the bike pass the civilized noise standards across the planet.

St. George? I'm between Branchton Road & Cheese Factory Road, in Cambridge! I'll keep an eye out during riding season - I'm through there all the time! I've found that the Ducati riders in our town hang out at the Tim Horton's at Myer's Road & Hwy 24.

Cannon