Ducati’s Monster naked bike is easily the most popular and best-selling street bike the Bologna brand has ever produced. However, over the last few years its popularity has waned. Monster packed on pounds and morphed into a model that was anything but the original. Ducati says it's getting back to the basics however, well sort of, with its 2021 Monster ($12,195 as tested).

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A Small, Lighter Monster
You don’t have to throw a leg over the Monster to tell that it’s leaner than before. We like its sleeker lines and slimmer, more accommodating cockpit. Overall, it is a more pleasing ergonomics package; however, it’s tad cramped for taller folks. Another strike for taller riders: The location of the engine’s left-hand-side water pump obstructs the inner knee area when seated in a stationary position. On another note, Ducati offers taller and lower seat options. It also sells a suspension lowering kit that further reduces seat height.

Powertrain
Thumb the starter button and the liquid-cooled 937cc L-twin settles into a healthy lump. The exhaust note sounds less tinny and emits an improved rumble. Twist the throttle and the engine has a pleasing spread of power. Rev it high or rev it low, the engine delivers enough oomph to put a smile on your face.

An overhauled six-speed gearbox is a big improvement versus the sloppy transmission of old. Gear exchanges are more solid-feeling without any misshifts. The hydraulic-actuated clutch offers good response with easy lever squeeze.

As usual, this Ducati is a tour de force in the electronics department. Adjustable combined engine power and throttle mapping, traction and wheelie control, are standard as is a bidirectional electronic quickshifter. Accessory heated handgrips can also be fitted for an up-charge ($373.14).

There’s also three-way-adjustable ABS with cornering function. It’s matched to a responsive set of triple disc brakes that are well-suited to slowing things down in a hurry. Ducati electronics offer plenty of adjustability, and in their least intrusive settings, they operate at a very advanced level for pro-level riders...

Find out more: https://www.motorcyclistonline.com/story/reviews/2021-ducati-monster-review/

Photography/video: Phewlid Films

Edit: Ray Gauger

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