Ducati reveal Monster 821
Available now in selected markets, the new Monster comes in two versions: the Monster 821 Dark, presented in dark stealth with black frame and black wheels; and the standard Monster 821, which is dressed in either Ducati red with red frame and black wheels or star white silk with red frame and matte red wheels. Both red and white liveries are equipped with colour-matched single-seat covers
The 821 sports the same trellis frame and muscular styling as the Monster 1200 released late last year, but is powered by the latest Ducati 821 Testastretta v-twin engine, which is a stressed member of the new, more compact and torsionally stiffer frame.
Engine changes deliver a customisable, user-friendly ride, with selectable Riding Modes and a 30,000km service interval. Claimed performance figures of 82.4kW (112hp) @ 9250rpm and 89.4Nm (65.9ft/lb) @ 7750rpm are combined with a light 179.5kg dry weight (205.5kg wet). Clutch is a 'slipper' style, using a progressive self-servo mechanism that delivers a much lighter lever action.
High-spec brakes (2 x 320mm front, 245mm rear) and stylish componentry merge with what Ducati claim are their best ergonomics yet. The Monster 821's wheelbase is 30mm longer, while handlebars are 40mm higher and 40mm closer to the rider. The adjustable seat height system can transform from 810mm (standard height) to 785mm and even further to 765mm or 745mm with the accessory low seat - Ducati's lowest ever. Brake lever is also adjustable. Wheels are 17-inch front and rear, while the fuel tank is larger (17.5lt) and headlight unit more compact.
Suspension consists of 43mm Kayaba front forks, with a single adjustable Sachs unit at the rear, linked to a shorter swing arm than the Monster 1200 for more precise handling, aided by Ducati Traction Control (DTC). This software detects and controls wheel spin, with eight levels of 'sensitivity' to determine DTC interaction, in sync with the Riding Modes.
Ducati's Riding Modes offer three optimised settings: "Sport", "Touring" and "Urban", each pre-programmed to instantly change engine character, ABS and DTC intervention. Both Sport and Touring deliver the full 112hp, while Urban cuts output to 75bhp for milder low-speed riding.
In addition to all the usual functions, the Monster 821's all-new LCD instrumentation panel includes the Riding Modes (scrollable via the indicator switch) and corresponding DTC and ABS displays, while a stopwatch function allows recording and storage of up to 30 lap times - very handy for track days.
