2021 Ducati Monster sharpens its claws, drops 18kg, ups the fun factor

Ducati has brought its Ducati World Premiere web series to a conclusion by saving the best (seller) ‘til last with the unveiling of the latest generation Ducati Monster.

After almost 30 years on sale, the Monster has in that time become Ducati’s best-selling model with 350,000 units of the Italian muscle bike rolling off the production line since 1993.

Which is why this latest generation model had the honour of concluding a lengthy launch campaign that has also seen a catalogue of new or revised Ducati machinery make its bow over the past few weeks, including the Multistrada V4, Panigale V4 SP and Diavel Lamborghini.

2021 DUCATI MULTISTRADA V4 REVIEW

However, the Monster is - in Ducati terms - the ‘big one’ with engineers tasked with using the original’s hallmarks as a lightweight, compact and fun motorcycle as inspiration for this latest generation.

Ducati says the new Monster has been developed from the ground up while maintaining the DNA of its predecessors, such as the synonymous ‘bison back’ fuel tank and ‘shoulder-embedded’ round headlight that bears more than a passing resemblance to the MV Agusta Brutale.

Ducati Monster chassis and engine

However, the 2021 Ducati Monster stands apart with a sharper design that emphasises its compact proportions even if purists may bemoan the demise of the model’s erstwhile recognisable trellis framed architecture. Even so, there is method in that madness with the new aluminium front frame adapted from the Panigale V4 with the express aim of slashing weight, an endeavour Ducati has succeeded by 60% to a feathery 3kg, which whittles the overall dry weight to just 166kg.

Indeed, each component has been redesigned, with the rims losing 1.7kg, the swingarm lightened by 1.6kg and the rear subframe decreasing by 1.9 kg thanks also to the GFRP (Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer) technology. It all adds up to a weight saving of 18kg.

At the Monster’s heart is a new 11-degree 937cc L-shaped twin-cylinder Testastretta engine, replacing the outgoing 821 and delivering 111hp at 9,250rpm with a maximum torque of 9.5Nm at 6,500rpm. Equipped with Ducati’s new Quick Shift Up/Down gearbox, the firm promises ‘thrilling performance’ as well as riding ease, while a restricted A2 compliant variant will be available.

Equipment and customisation

Features include ABS cornering, traction control and wheelie control, while a launch control system is also included to emphasise its lightweight, sporting character.

Three riding modes (Sport, Urban and Touring) are also included, together with a fresh 4.3” colour TFT dashboard featuring racing graphics and a large rev counter.

As ever, Ducati will continue to offer an array of customising options to ensure your little Monster remains unique to you.

The new Monster is available in Ducati Red and Dark Stealth with black wheels, Aviator Grey with GP Red wheels. For those who want the bike with an even sportier image, there is the Plus version in the same colours with an aerodynamic windshield and the cover for the passenger seat as standard.