New Rider...sort of.

I'm looking to get into a bigger bike soon.  I figured this would be a good place to get the advice I need to start right.

I currently ride a 2005 Yamaha Zuma 50cc scooter in LA traffic on a daily basis.  So I know what "playing dodge 'em" is like.  I have put 6,000 miles on  the pocket bike in two years.  This includes rally rides and riding in the hills above Malibu.

I would like a nice midweight bike, 500 to 700cc, as a weekender.  (The scooter is just too thrifty on gas and hauls tons of groceries to get rid of.)  My back doesn't like the riding position of cruisers (and I'm not really into them anyway).  I'm 5'5" and fairly long legs.  Any suggestions for a good bike?

My dream bike is a Ducati Monster 695 but reality says I should get something Japanese for reliablity and maintenance costs.

Thanks.    

2008 FZ6 looks pretty sharp. You seem to like the scooter you have, considering the mileage you put on it. I guess in the end it all depends on what you are looking for in your new bike.