Ducati Monster 900: Recognized for its understated yet sophisticated design and distinctive red trellis frame tubes, the Ducati Monster 900 motorcycle range commemorates over three decades of outstanding performance. The Monster is the most enduring brand owned by Ducati, having been introduced in 1992 at the International Motorcycle Fair in Cologne. With over 350,000 sales in its three-decade lifespan, the Monster is also their best-selling motorcycle. In light of the other successful sport-naked motorcycles that have come before them, it’s important to take a moment to honor the Ducati Monster 900.
The first Monster motorcycle produced by Ducati was the 900, but since then, the engine size has varied to include 600cc and 1200cc, which has greatly contributed to the Monster’s appeal. The availability of several engine sizes accommodated the diverse needs and skill levels of riders. The Ducati Monster 900 is a wonderful model to start with if you want the street cred of an Italian motorcycle without breaking the bank on some of Ducati’s more expensive models because it’s also reasonably priced compared to the company’s other products.
Historic Monsters
The Monster is essentially a straightforward bicycle, making it a reasonably entry-level model. The air-cooled L-twin engine of the original Monster 900 (also known as the M900) produced 73 horsepower from a 904cc engine. In addition to being incredibly balanced, the Monster 900 was powerful enough to excite experienced riders while remaining manageable for beginners. It turns out that the ideal combination is to balance rideability and power.
It’s difficult to argue against Miguel Galluzzi’s statement that “all you need are: saddle, tank, engine, two wheels, and handlebars,” which he made when he originally designed the Ducati Monster 900. The Monster adhered to that formula, having a straightforward user interface and a straightforward design from a distance. There are a few warning lights, a sizable and well-visible gauge cluster, and not much more to divert the rider’s attention. With features like a quick-release gasoline tank system that makes it possible to reach the batteries, air filters, and fuses, accessibility was also included in the design process.
Ducati Monster 900 added 600cc and 750cc models, as well as certain special edition M900 trims known as the Monster Cromo and the M900 S, to the Monster roster during the ensuing years. Fuel injection and a digital dash were two major changes for the Monster in 2000, but the major shift was a new 916cc engine and water cooling instead of air cooling in 2001.
Modern Monsters
The Monster S4 took the place of the Monster 900 following the switch to fuel injection, and it expanded from there. To keep up with competitors, larger engines were subsequently employed, including 996cc models and even 1000cc bikes.
The Monster SP is the current iteration of the Monster 900. With features like launch control, traction control, wheelie control, and special riding modes for different conditions, the 2024 Ducati Monster SP is maneuverable and simple to ride a motorcycle. It has a 111 horsepower 937cc Testrastretta L-twin engine. The Monster keeps loyal to its heritage by sharing engines with its Ducati stablemates, the Hypermotard and the Supersport 950.
Although the Monster SP doesn’t have the same 900cc engine displacement as the original Monster 900 and doesn’t have the famous trellis tube frame that gave it such presence on the road, it nevertheless has the correct attitude. It’s an Italian motorcycle that’s reasonably priced, has a straightforward yet endearing appearance, and has enough power to be somewhat enjoyable.