Ducati to update Monster range with 1100 DS engine
Click above for more spy shots of the Ducati Monster 1100
You knew that Ducati wouldn't go too long without upgrading its modern-classic Monster line. Last year, the only option available for fans of the original naked bike was the entry-level 696 engine. While that machine, with its throaty V-Twin and brand new chassis, was definitely a good bike, those looking for a bit more power either had to move on up the Italian manufacturers line or look elsewhere. As expected, Ducati will rectify that problem this year by dropping its excellent Dual Spark 1100cc air-cooled engine inside the Monster's shapely new trellis frame. Along with the engine upgrade, a single-sided swingarm spices things up at the rear and much improved Brembo radial mount brakes should equal huge and controllable stopping power. We're certain that the new Monster will make its formal debut at one of the upcoming motorcycle shows in Europe. Until then, enjoy these grainy spy shots.
Gallery: Spy Shots: Ducati Monster 1100
[Source: Ducati Monster Club via Motorcycle News]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Fred 6:45PM (9/04/2008)
It gains the single-sided swingarm as well it seems
Reply
Razor 7:47PM (9/04/2008)
S2R1000's always had the single-sided swingarm.
Also referring to the article it is an L-Twin engine not a V. Save that for Harley's and Buell's.
WS 9:50PM (9/04/2008)
@Razor: Or that other Italian brand, Moto Guzzi.
chrisdavis 7:03PM (9/04/2008)
I still haven't warmed up to the new half-trellis frame. It looks like two designers with completely different agendas designed it.
Reply
LeMuRfArT 8:07PM (9/04/2008)
i was thinking of getting the 696 to commute.
my 1098 is my weekend play thing and those tires last two seconds
Reply
Greg Koenig 12:05AM (9/05/2008)
I've been holding out on upgrading my '03 Monster 620, but severely tempted by the Hypermotard. I want my next Duc to have a single sided swingarm and a dry clutch.
I think I'll go down and get on the list for this bad boy!
Reply
Tim 12:47AM (9/05/2008)
I love my Hyper, and amazingly, I haven't been pulled over yet since you can't help but ride it like a hooligan.
Nicko 11:25AM (9/05/2008)
Not sure why Autoblog is focusing on the engine as the big news regarding the all-new-for-the-first-time Monster line up. Well I do actually, their not motorcyclists. The updated chassis, and more importantly, updated chassis geometry are waaay more significant to the 2nd-gen Monsters than going from 1000cc DS to the 1100cc version. Anybody ever ridden a 1st generation monster in anger? They handle like what they are, a Ducati 851 with a superbike bar mounted on it, aka old school with a healthy dose of understeer. Guys, the updated chassis/handling is the real news here.
Reply
Artie Lange 1:33PM (9/05/2008)
Actually, this would be a "3rd gen" Monster. The first being based on the 851 frame. The second being the current Monster based on the ST frame.
copcar 6:15PM (9/05/2008)
Why the frequent articles on bikes like Ducatis that so few people like and even fewer people buy?
Reply