What Kind of Bike is a Ducati Monster?
The term standard motorcycle has come to mean any kind of motorcycle with a more upright seating position and comfortable ergonomics. This style is a favorite because it’s good at everything and usually has a very simple design with space for accessories like a tank bag and luggage. Scramblers, streetfighters, cafe racers and naked bikes all fall under this large umbrella of unfaired versions of sportbikes. These bikes have fast motors, fancy technology, sport suspension and brakes, but they're intended more for daily riding than trying to set lap records at the track.
What is a Naked Motorcycle?
A Naked Bike, or standard roadster, is one of the simplest motorcycle styles and you’ve likely seen thousands of them zipping around as they are mainly designed for everyday travel. They are recognizable due to their upright riding position, midway between the reclined position of a cruiser and the forward leaning position of most adventure or sport bikes. Riding in a more upright position gives the rider a sense of confidence and a good line of sight for what’s happening in front of them.
These bikes fit comfortably in a small garage and are easier to park on the street due to their lighter weight. With their thinner frames and lack of fairings or windscreens, they are easy to maneuver through traffic and a great choice for new riders. This style of motorcycle also tends to be affordable, which is also appealing for beginner riders. Naked bikes have a great weight to power ratio which means they don’t take too much strength or skill to control. They are fun to ride because they are incredibly powerful and fast enough to be exciting but not overwhelming.
Ducati Monster, One of the Best Naked Bikes on the Market
Ducati produces a range of motorcycles and names its bikes with monikers that can have near literal Italian to English translations, or that pay homage to the brand’s history. The numbers following the names refer to the general engine displacement, essentially the size and power of the bike; the larger the number, the heavier and more powerful the motorcycle. Designated the M900, it became known by its nickname, “Monster” like Frankenstein’s monster, it stitched together the steel trellis frame from the 851 Superbike, the air-cooled, 904cc L-twin from the Supersport Desmodue, a “bison-back” gas tank, low handlebars and a round headlight. Unveiled in 1992, the Monster established the naked bike style.
The new Monster maintains the signature minimalist styling and aggressive attitude while delivering increased power, comfort, and maneuverability. The Monster is Ducati's super lightweight, compact, entry-level bike, well-suited as a starter bike for urban dwellers and weekend enthusiasts. The new version is 40 pounds lighter than its Monster 821 predecessor with a 937-cc Testratta 11-degree twin-cylinder L also found in the Hypermotard, Multistrada 950 and SuperSport 950, that delivers 111 hp and 69 lb-ft of torque; the Plus trim adds a bug shield and a tail cover.
The Monster 1200 is Ducati’s top-of-the-line sport naked bike, which has evolved over the years to become a compact yet thrilling bike in the class. The Monster 1200 sports a 1198-cc Testastretta 11-degree L-Twin producing 147 horsepower and 91 pound-feet of torque. The Monster 1200 comes complete with the Ducati Safety Pack, while the S model receives performance and trim upgrades that enhance the riding experience.
The Monster has seen multiple evolutions of styling and technology, and the commitment by Ducati to enhance and keep the Monster relevant is evident in the latest version of this iconic motorcycle, which brings together a Superbike-inspired chassis, a road-going engine and the latest in electronic riding aids. The design delivers the best of both worlds- to be more thrilling for experienced riders as well as more accessible for new riders. It’s the friendliest Monster yet and should satisfy a wide range of riders and abilities. Ready to take one for a spin? Schedule a test ride today!