Ducati announce an updated Monster 821 to celebrate the Monster model-line's 25 anniversary, including new styling, TFT display and the Ducati Yellow option, available strictly on the 821...
The first of Ducati’s 2018 models have been revealed and fittingly it’s the Monster 821, in time to celebrate the Monster’s 25th anniversary, after it was first seen in the Cologne Show back in 1992 for a 1993 release.
2018 introduces an updated Monster 821, the first of the 2018 models Ducati has unveiled, with the iconic Ducati Yellow colour option.
Starting as a project to provide a non-sportsbike Ducati option the Monster was initially a humble offering, making use of existing model parts and offering an easier to ride option, without trading off the Ducati heritage. It’s said the bike was intended to encroach on cruiser territory, as well as offering an ideal customising platform. For today’s younger generations the Monster is probably as recognisable as their sportsbike machinery, or more so, for those who don’t follow racing.
The Monster is a true success story for Ducati
In fact by 2005 the Monster made up half of the manufacturer’s yearly sales, giving an insight into just how important this model is to the Bologna brand, with features like the twin-cylinder engine and trellis frame retained to this day, alongside an instantly recognisable exhaust tone and styling.
New for 2018 is the standard colour matched cowl, iconic colour option and updated display, light and exhaust
The iconic naked motorcycle from Borgo Panigale is presented in an updated version to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the original model and inherits the character and charm of the first Monster 900, with a clear resemblance between the two models visible, although the family heritage through this line has always been a strong point.
Ducati are saying the tank and tail are based on the originally unveiled 1992 Monster
Updates for the Monster 821 include changes to its shape by adopting features from the Monster 1200, such as the completely redesigned tank and tail end, inspired by the 1992 Monster 900. A new racing silencer and headlight are also part of the new design.
The mid-size Monster also now boasts a colour TFT display, including selected gear and fuel indicators. The Ducati Quick Shift up/down and the Ducati Multimedia Systems have also been added to the accessories catalogue for this model, to further enhance the experience offered by the 821.
A colour TFT has also been introduced
Another big change for the MY18 Monster 821 is the return of the historic Ducati Yellow colour that charmed so many Monster fans in the past. This colour, available for the 821 only will join the Red and Matte Black colour options.
The traditional Red Monster option will no doubt face some serious competition from the Ducati Yellow option
Powering the 2018 Monster 821 is the liquid-cooled twin cylinder Testastretta, with 109hp at 9250rpm and 86Nm of torque at 7750rpm, figures which are slightly down on the the same claimed numbers for the 2017 model, and when we last tested the bike in 2015. We can only assume there’s been some overall tuning tweaks, perhaps around Euro4 restrictions, responsible for this change.
Power is slightly down from previous year models, but not enough to be really noticeable, although only time will tell.
The Monster 821 also features the Ducati Safety Pack, which comprises Bosch ABS and Ducati Traction Control, both of which have adjustable intervention levels. The standard Riding Modes ensure easy adjustment of ABS, DTC and Power Modes (controlling peak power and type of delivery), which is thanks to the RbW system.
The Ducati Safety Pack comes standard and includes Bosch ABS and DTC (Ducati Traction Control), with Power Modes and Ride Modes featured
Completing the impressive equipment of the Monster 821 are the Brembo brakes, with dual 320mm rotors and M4-32 monobloc radial callipers at the front. The suspension system includes 43mm forks at the front and an adjustable shock absorber at the rear.
Impressive Brembo M4 front calipers ensure top notch braking
The extensive standard equipment, long maintenance intervals, and a rich catalogue of accessories make the 821 the perfect riding option, and the 2018 model will include the colour matched seat cowl as standard.
With the Monster 821 traditionally the simpler and less expensive Monster option, it’ll be interesting to see the RRP for the 2018 model
The new Monster 821 is just the first of the Ducati 2018 new range. The Ducati World Premiere, to be streamed live on Sunday, 5 November at 9 p.m., will unveil four more new models designed by the Italian manufacturers, which will later be presented to the general public at EICMA – scheduled from 9 to 12 November at the Rho fair.
2018 Ducati Monster 821 in Matte Black
For more information on the Ducati model range see www.Ducati.com.au. We’ll update with model availability and pricing information when it becomes available.
The Up/Down Quick Shift will also make an appearance as an optional accessory for this model
2018 Ducati Monster 821 Specifications
Warranty: Two-year, unlimited kilometre
Service intervals: 15,000km (Valve clearance, every 30,000km)
Colours: Ducati Yellow, Red, Matte Black
Claimed Power: 80kW[109hp]@9250rpm
Claimed Torque: 86Nm[63ft-lbs]@7750rpm
Wet weight: 206kg
Fuel Capacity: 16.5L
Engine: Liquid-cooled, Testrastretta 11°L-twin, Desmodromic four-valves per cylinder, 821cc, 88 x 67.5mm, 12.8:1 compression, 53mm Mikuni throttle-bodies, RbW, DTC, Riding Modes, Power Modes, two-into-one-into-two exhaust, stainless steel muffler
Clutch: Slipper/self-servo clutch, wet multi-plate
Frame: Tubular steel trellis frame linked to cylinder heads
Rake: 24.3°, Trail: 93.2mm
Suspension: USD non-adjustable 43mm forks, 130mm travel, fully adjustable progressive Sachs rear shock, 140mm travel
Brakes: Bosch ABS, dual front 320mm rotors, Brembo M4-32 Monobloc four-piston calipers, 245mm rear rotor, two-piston caliper
Wheels & Tyres: 10-spoke light alloy wheels, 3.50 x 17in, 5.50 x 17in, Pirelli Diablo Rosso III, 120/70 – 17, 180/55-17
DIMENSIONS:
Seat height: 785-810mm
Wheelbase: 1480mm
Instruments: Colour TFT display
2018 Ducati Monster 821 Gallery
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