Ups
- Classic Monster styling
- Friendly big-bore V-twin engine
- Full suite of electronic rider aids
Downs
- The Streetfighter V4 steals some of its naked bike glory
- It’s a pricey proposition in a crowded field of liter-class naked bikes
Verdict
Outside of the Scrambler line, the Monster 12000 may be the most traditional Ducati in the 2021 lineup. While the 2021 Monster’s styling departure and the Streetfighter V4′s prodigious performance are stealing all the headlines, the Monster 1200 quietly tows the line, adhering to beloved Ducati archetypes with its trellis frame and 1,198cc V-twin engine.
Overview
The Monster 1200 was introduced in 2014 to replace the air-cooled Monster 1100 EVO, and was last updated in 2017. The Monster 1200′s sporty performance, modern rider aids, and proven V-twin were enough to keep it top dog in Ducati’s naked bike lineup until the Streetfighter V4 came snarling onto the scene in 2020. Rather than seeming like the old hat, the Monster 1200 remains a competent sporting motorcycle with styling that doesn’t seem out of place wherever the ride may take you.
Updates for 2021
The Ducati Monster 1200 is unchanged for 2021, but the S model is available in a new Black on Black color scheme that features matte and gloss paint with red accents.
Pricing And Variants
The base model Monster 1200 retails for $14,995. The up-spec S model retails for $17,595 for Ducati Red and $17,795 for Black on Black. The S model is differentiated from the base model with fully-adjustable Öhlins suspension, upgraded Brembo M50 brakes (the base model uses Brembo M4.32 calipers), three-spoke alloy wheels, a carbon fiber front mudguard, and standard up/down quickshifter.
Competition
The large-displacement naked bike category is ever expanding with roadsters on the more conservative side and hyper nakeds on the aggressive, performance-oriented side. The Monster fits somewhere in between. Since the Streetfighter V4 carries the mantle for Ducati’s hyper naked hopes and go against the likes of the Triumph Speed Triple RS ($18,500), KTM 1290 Super Duke R ($18,699), Aprilia Tuono V4 ($15,999), and BMW S 1000 R ($14,995), the Monster 1200 can more than hold its own against less aggressive contenders like the BMW R 1250 R ($14,995), and price-conscious machines like the Yamaha MT-10 ($12,999), Honda CB1000R Black Edition ($12,999), and Suzuki Katana ($13,499).
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Monster 1200 has a desmodromic 1,198cc V-twin engine that produces a claimed 147 horsepower at 9,250 rpm and 91 pound-feet of torque at 7,750 rpm. In an MC Commute Review of the 2020 Monster 1200 S, Adam Waheed noted: “The thing I like most about this bike is its familiar 1198 superbike-based engine. Full of torque and character, this engine embodies Ducati. Its rhythmic power pulses make it a blast to ride, plus it is crazy quick and leaps off turns like no other bike in this comparison.”
Handling
Even though the Streetfighter V4 is the true naked sportbike in the lineup, the Monster will never be accused of lazy steering or of not having sportbike roots. In a five-way comparison test, Mark Hoyer says: “Riders felt very much a part of the bike, connected to the point where it sort of disappeared.” Suspension is firm, but well-dialled in, especially with the S model’s fully-adjustable Öhlins.
Brakes
Brembo M.50 calipers on the S model and M4.32 calipers on the base model are premium components and work accordingly. The M.50 units have improved stopping power and feel, so ponying up for the S model is justifiable. Both specs have cornering ABS, utilizing the Bosch six-axis IMU.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
In Cycle World’s 2020 test, the Monster 1200 S recorded an average of 38.1 miles per gallon.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
Ergonomics are typical naked bike fare, with not unkind accommodations that put the rider in the wind. The riding position is relatively aggressive and tight fitting, featuring an up-and-back footpeg position and an in-command reach to the handlebar. Seat height is adjustable in two positions between 31.3 inches and 32.3 inches.
Electronics
The base model Monster 1200 has a Bosch six-axis IMU that manages customizable traction control and cornering ABS. Rider aids include adjustable ride modes and wheelie control. The S model includes an up/down quickshifter that’s available as an accessory for the base model. A TFT dash and LED lighting round out the package.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Monster 1200 has a 24-month warranty.
Quality
Fit and finish is representative of Ducati’s high-end reputation. The Monster has premium components, quality switchgear, and exhibits Ducati’s attention to detail. The Testastretta 11-degree engine has been around in one form or another since it was developed for the 998 superbike. It’s a proven, reliable engine. Valve check intervals are every 18,000 miles.
2021 Ducati Monster 1200 Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | $14,995 (base model), $17,595 (S model) |
| Engine: | 1,198cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC V-twin, 8 valves |
| Bore x Stroke: | 106.0mm x 67.9mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Fuel Delivery: | Electronic fuel injection w/ 56mm oval throttle body |
| Clutch: | Slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch with hydraulic control |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | Ride by wire/TCI |
| Frame: | Steel trellis |
| Front Suspension: | 43mm Kayaba USD fork, fully adjustable; 5.12-in. travel (base model)/ 48mm Öhlins fork, fully adjustable; 5.12-in. Travel (S model) |
| Rear Suspension: | Sachs shock, adjustable for preload and rebound; 5.9-in. travel/ Öhlins monoshock, fully adjustable; 5.9-in. travel (S model) |
| Front Brake: | Brembo M4.32 4-piston caliper, dual 320mm discs w/ cornering ABS |
| Rear Brake: | Brembo 2-piston caliper, 245mm disc w/ cornering ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | 10 spoke alloy, 3.50 x 17 in. / 6.0 x 17 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | 120/70 ZR17 / 190/55 ZR17 |
| Rake/Trail: | 23.3°/3.4 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 58.5 in. |
| Seat Height: | Adj. 31.30–32.28 in |
| Fuel Capacity: | 4.4 gal. |
| Wet Weight: | 470 lb. (base model)/ 465 lb. (S model) |
| Contact: | ducati.com |
Cycle World Tested Specifications
| Seat Height: | 31.6 in. |
| Wet Weight: | 472 lb. (S model) |
| Rear-Wheel Horsepower: 131.4 hp @ 9,200 rpm | |
| Rear-Wheel Torque: | 81.6 lb.-ft. @ 7,600 rpm |
| 0–60 mph: | 3.27 sec. |
| 1/4-mile: | 10.70 sec. @ 133.0 mph |
| Braking 30–0 mph: | 31.3 ft. |
| Braking 60–0 mph: | 129.4 ft. |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com