The Ducati Monster 696 is a

standard Standard may refer to: Symbols * Colours, standards and guidons, kinds of military signs * Standard (emblem), a type of a large symbol or emblem used for identification Norms, conventions or requirements * Standard (metrology), an object th ...

or "naked" motorcycle, made by

Ducati Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. () is the motorcycle-manufacturing division of Italian company Ducati, headquartered in Bologna, Italy. The company is directly owned by Italian automotive manufacturer Lamborghini, whose German parent company is Au ...

from 2008 through 2014.

Background

Since its launch in 1993, Ducati had sold over 200,000 Monsters, which at one time amounted to 60% of Ducati's production. The initial Monster was cheap and easy to build and has remained so during its long life. Ducati's "less-is-more" rationale of the Monster range aimed to combine high performance in a compact motorcycle. Ducati recently updated the Monster range, with redesigned components to improve performance and appearance. In 2022 Will Burgess repurposed one of these to make a custom Carbon Fibre Monster 696.

Specifications

Engine and drivetrain

The engine is the "Desmodue", a 90° L-twin, air-cooled engine with

desmodromic :''In general mechanical terms, the word ''desmodromic'' is used to refer to mechanisms that have different controls for their actuation in different directions.'' A desmodromic valve is a reciprocating engine poppet valve that is positively clos ...

valve actuation. A

slipper clutch A slipper clutch ''(also known as a back-torque limiter)'' is a specialized clutch with an integrated freewheel mechanism, developed for performance-oriented motorcycles to mitigate the effects of engine braking when riders decelerate. The main pu ...

prevents locking of the rear wheel through clumsy down-shifting. Although Ducatis often use a dry clutch, this model has a 21-plate oil-bath "wet clutch" which weighs less, gives quieter operation, and needs less maintenance.

Frame and body

The Monster has a steel

trellis frame A motorcycle frame is a motorcycle's core structure. It supports the engine, provides a location for the steering and rear suspension, and supports the rider and any passenger or luggage. Also attached to the frame are the fuel tank and battery. A ...

and a lightweight aluminum

subframe A subframe is a structural component of a vehicle, such as an automobile or an aircraft, that uses a discrete, separate structure within a larger body-on-frame or unit body to carry certain components, such as the engine, drivetrain, or suspens ...

. The claimed dry weight is (non-ABS). The seat height is , which may make it easier for some riders to plant their feet firmly on the ground. This is a benefit for inexperienced motorcyclists. Brembo p4-32 Caliper

Brakes

The Monster's brake system components including master cylinders and discs are supplied by

Brembo Brembo S.p.A. is an Italian manufacturer of automotive brake systems, especially for high-performance cars and motorcycles. Its head office is in Curno, Bergamo, Italy. History Brembo was established in Paladina, Italy on January 11, 1961 ...

. The front has 320 mm floating dual discs and radially mounted 4 piston Brembo p4.32 calipers. The 245 mm rear solid disc have a two-piston p34 caliper. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is optional.

Notes

External links

Ducati Monster 696 review
Road test of the Ducati Monster 696 Monster 696 Motorcycles introduced in 2008 Standard motorcycles Motorcycles powered by V engines {{Motorcycle-stub