As some of you know, I got a Ducati GT1000 last November. It represented what seemed to be the best of the Duc aura with a more practical (esp. for a 66 yr old) driving position. At 407 lbs and 95 hp, its fast, agile and still comfortable. Don't even ask about the exhaust note.
As to V Rod competitor, I doubt Duc even recognizes Harley as a competitor.

SteveB