Ducati Monster Expert Review

The Ducati Monster has moved away from its traditional muscular styling, adopting a lighter and sharper design. While long-time Monster fans may miss the iconic trellis frame, the new look is modern and attractive in person. The matte grey paint with red wheels gives it a distinctive appearance, and details such as the LED headlight, sculpted fuel tank and neatly designed tail section add to its premium appeal. Build quality is excellent, with high-quality body panels, switchgear and a crisp 4.3-inch TFT display that reflects Ducati's premium standards. 

The Monster offers a comfortable and confidence-inspiring riding position. The wide handlebar, slightly forward stance and well-padded seat make it suitable for both city rides and longer journeys. Although the seat height has increased slightly, the motorcycle feels slimmer and easier to manage than before, making it more accessible for shorter riders. The seat remains comfortable even on longer rides, while the riding position strikes a good balance between sporty and relaxed. 

The 937cc L-twin engine produces strong performance with an impressive mid-range and top-end. It is quick when ridden aggressively, yet remains smooth and tractable enough for everyday city use. The engine feels refined once it gets past low revs, delivering the familiar Ducati exhaust note from around 4,000rpm onwards. While it does generate heat in traffic, it remains manageable under normal conditions. Fuel economy is not a focus, with the emphasis instead being on strong performance and an engaging riding experience. 

The Monster is light, agile and easy to ride, making it enjoyable on both city streets and twisty roads. Its reduced weight and new chassis help improve confidence while changing direction, and the motorcycle feels stable even when ridden enthusiastically. The Brembo brakes offer strong and progressive stopping power, while the suspension provides a good balance between comfort and sporty handling. Overall, the Monster is much friendlier to ride than its performance figures suggest. 

The Monster comes equipped with a comprehensive electronics package that includes riding modes, cornering ABS, traction control and other rider aids that make the bike more forgiving and easier to handle. The TFT display is clear and easy to read, while the electronic systems work smoothly without reducing the excitement of riding the motorcycle. 

The Ducati Monster is priced at a premium, putting it close to rivals that offer more power and additional equipment. However, Autocar India believes the Monster stands out because of its character, refined performance and ease of use. It successfully combines Ducati's sporty personality with everyday practicality, making it a rewarding choice for riders who want a premium naked motorcycle that is both exciting and approachable.