Ducati’s Monster naked bike is easily the most popular and best-selling street bike the Bologna brand has ever produced. However, over the last few years its popularity has waned. Monster packed on pounds and morphed into a model that was anything but the original. Ducati says it's getting back to the basics however, well sort of, with its 2021 Monster ($12,195 as tested).<br /><br />--<br /><br />A Small, Lighter Monster<br />You don’t have to throw a leg over the Monster to tell that it’s leaner than before. We like its sleeker lines and slimmer, more accommodating cockpit. Overall, it is a more pleasing ergonomics package; however, it’s tad cramped for taller folks. Another strike for taller riders: The location of the engine’s left-hand-side water pump obstructs the inner knee area when seated in a stationary position. On another note, Ducati offers taller and lower seat options. It also sells a suspension lowering kit that further reduces seat height.<br /><br />Powertrain<br />Thumb the starter button and the liquid-cooled 937cc L-twin settles into a healthy lump. The exhaust note sounds less tinny and emits an improved rumble. Twist the throttle and the engine has a pleasing spread of power. Rev it high or rev it low, the engine delivers enough oomph to put a smile on your face.<br /><br />An overhauled six-speed gearbox is a big improvement versus the sloppy transmission of old. Gear exchanges are more solid-feeling without any misshifts. The hydraulic-actuated clutch offers good response with easy lever squeeze.<br /><br />As usual, this Ducati is a tour de force in the electronics department. Adjustable combined engine power and throttle mapping, traction and wheelie control, are standard as is a bidirectional electronic quickshifter. Accessory heated handgrips can also be fitted for an up-charge ($373.14).<br /><br />There’s also three-way-adjustable ABS with cornering function. It’s matched to a responsive set of triple disc brakes that are well-suited to slowing things down in a hurry. Ducati electronics offer plenty of adjustability, and in their least intrusive settings, they operate at a very advanced level for pro-level riders...<br /><br />Find out more: https://www.motorcyclistonline.com/story/reviews/2021-ducati-monster-review/<br /><br />Photography/video: Phewlid Films<br /><br />Edit: Ray Gauger<br /><br />Motorcycle Riding Gear<br /><br />Helmet: Arai Signet-X<br />Jacket: Cortech Marquee<br />Gloves: Racer Tour FHH<br />Pant: REV’IT! Austin<br />Boots: TCX X-Cube WP EVO<br /><br />Motorcyclist Shirts: https://teespring.com/stores/motorcyclist<br />Shop Products We Use: https://www.amazon.com/shop/motorcyclistmagazine <br /><br />See more from us: http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/
