Ducati Monster 696

Less is Monster - The 'less-is-more' philosophy behind all Monsters underlines Ducati's never-ending pursuit of genuinely compact, high performance motorcycles, but these new models have succeeded in being even more 'pared down' than their predecessors. Every single component has been redesigned and redeveloped so now more than ever, form follows function. With any details detracting from the Monster concept being eliminated, 'less-is-more' also means 'less-is-Monster'. Less weight plus more torque equals fun-filled riding.

Monster Story - In 1992 Ducati unveiled a new prototype that was to become an icon. Ducati's creation awed the crowds and the world's media of that year's Cologne International Motorcycle show. The 900 Monster was a motorcycle that created a truly new niche - dramatically styled, minimalist in stature yet bristling with innovative engineering solutions. The Monster's radical styling has also provided the inspiration for an entire after-market sector specialising in hot-rod parts for this legendary machine. For this reason, rarely do you see two Monsters the same. This radical and refreshing design departure also influenced other manufacturers but, as the old adage states: imitation is the highest form of flattery... The Monster is characterised by a long and successful history, by its introduction during the years of numerous cylinders and uncountable colour options, but above all by a constant technological evolution that this year brings us to the birth of the last version: the Monster 1100EVO, "The Ultimate Monster".

 ENGINE

APTC clutch - The APTC ‘wet’ clutch gives a ‘slipper’ type action that prevents destabilizing of the rear-end under aggressive down-shifting and also gives the extra benefit of a super-light feel at the lever, a great benefit in stop-start city traffic or during longer journeys. The 21-plate oil-bath clutch (11 friction and 10 steel) represents a power-enhancing weight reduction over the ‘dry’ system as well as having a quieter operation and requiring less maintenance.

Lightweight crankcases - The new crankcases hug the gearbox internals much closer to create a smaller and more compact outer profile and achieve considerable weight savings over previous cases.

Power & torque curves - The Monster 696 produces 80hp (58,8kW) @ 9000rpm and 50,6 lb-ft (7,0kgm) of torque @ 7750rpm

Exhaust system - The 2-1-2 catalytic exhaust system uses an efficient pre-silencer configuration with twin lambda probes providing finer fuel mapping and Euro 3 conformity. The system’s lightweight and compact design is achieved by using 1mm thick tubing and terminates in Ducati’s trademark twin under-seat, black exhaust mufflers, stylishly contrasted with great looking aluminium end caps.

Desmodue - The engine of the Monster 696 is the legendary Desmodue, 696cc, air cooled, Dual Spark L-Twin engine whose 80hp gives it that unmistakable Ducati sound. Developed for an incredibly flexible power delivery, the 696 Desmodromic engine provides enough torque to exit the most challenging of corners. The impressive torque, typical of the Ducati L-Twin engines, will excite with every twist of the throttle.

CHASSIS

Aluminium swingarm - The GP-style swingarm is chill-cast using aluminium in its most noble form. Gravity cast and heat treated, the component achieves the best mechanical characteristics as well as reduced final weight for improved handling.

Brembo brakes - The latest in Brembo braking hardware delivers exceptional braking power front and rear to improve rider safety. At the front, 320mm floating discs are gripped by four-piston, radially mounted callipers, while a 245mm floating rear disc works in combination with a twin-piston calliper. This powerful braking set-up offers unrivalled feel and feedback making the 696 safer across a broader spectrum of riding abilities.

Seat height - The riding position of the Monster 696 has been specifically designed to put you firmly in control. The seat height is only 770mm (30.3in), making it easier for get both feet firmly planted on the ground.

Lightweight construction - Every carefully selected component of the Monster 696 has a net benefit to the overall light weight of the machine. The dry weight of 161kgs (355lb) has dramatic effects on not just manoeuvrability and ease of use, but also by contributing directly to increased performance, braking and acceleration.

Monster Trellis - An immensely strong but light tubular steel Trellis frame with aluminium rear sub-frame is the visual and structural backbone of the Monster. Delivering unparalleled rigidity with minimal mass, the chassis design is pure Ducati in its ingenuity and simplicity. A separate, all aluminium sub-frame saves weight and adds a pleasing continuity with the aluminium footrest hangers and matte finished swingarm.

Ergonomics - The heavily tapered and deeply sculpted fuel tank cover allows maximum comfort and control. The narrowing of the bike's ‘waist’ has the same effect as lowering the seat height, making it easier for more riders to get both feet flat on the floor. The steering-lock is vastly improved with a useful 64 degrees of lock-to-lock steering travel. Incredible attention to detail has gone into maximising the effective steering-lock.

Marzocchi forks - Outstanding grip and unbeatable riding comfort are ensured by a 43 mm Marzocchi upside down stanchion fork, which provides 120 mm of suspension travel.

Sachs rear suspension - At the rear, a Sachs monoshock unit with progressive linkage provide a wide spectrum of both spring and damping settings.

Lightweight 3-spoke wheels - Lightweight 3-spoke aluminium alloy wheels increase agility and reduce rider effort. The 3.50x17 front wheel wears a 120/60ZR tyre while the 4.50x17 rear wheel runs 160/60ZR rubber. By resisting the temptation to over-tyre the 696 for styling’s sake, the end result is light, predictable and confidence inspiring steering qualities at a wide range of speeds with truly outstanding stability.

EQUIPMENT

Stopwatch - The digital display is programmed with a stopwatch function that, when enabled, can be triggered by using the high-beam flash button and each recorded time stored in a memory. After your journey or track session, the times or lap times can be recalled from the memory and scrolled through by using the instrumentation buttons on the left-hand switchgear.

LED taillight - An LED rear light unit satisfies the minimalist, weight-saving design ethos found throughout the Monster 696. The specially designed strip of LED are enhanced by a special diffuser lens to deliver outstanding light clarity and incredible longevity.
For the Monster 1100EVO, even the license plate light uses LED technology.

Headlight - The triple-parabola headlight on the Monster utilises the latest optical technology and advanced construction techniques to provide an incredibly compact lighting package. In spite of its compact size, the headlight throws a broad and deep beam to provide excellent visibility and make night riding safer. Viewed from the side, its discrete silhouette mimics the radical shape of the fuel tank.

DDA ready - The instrument display also doubles as a control panel for the activation of the Ducati Data Analyser (DDA) system, which is available as an accessory from Ducati Performance. The bike has been built ‘system-ready’ for the data acquisition kit, which consists of special DDA software and a memory key that slots into a plug under the seat. The same plug also doubles as the connection for a handy new battery charger available as an accessory from Ducati Performance.

Silencer covers - The new silencer guards feature a longer shape and provide improved heat protection

Instrumentation - Visually simple digital instrumentation provides an array of data on command or, at a glance, just speed and revs. Information available at your fingertip include: scheduled maintenance warning, oil temperature, trip odometer, lap time, fuel reserve, warning light for low oil pressure, turn signals, over-rev warning, immobilizer and neutral warning light.

Adjustable levers - The new user-friendly brake and clutch with 4-point adjustable levers provide easy-to-reach control for all hand sizes.

M696 ABS - For the first time since its debut, the Ducati Monster is available with ABS (anti-lock braking system). Unlike the majority of motorcycle ABS set-ups, this system has the advantage of ensuring a more natural braking ‘feel’ for the rider. The Monster 696 ABS is equipped with ABS, the single seat cover and the neat micro-bikini fairing.

M696+ - The 696+ is a factory-personalised model featuring some neat designer touches to help you stand out from the crowd. A beautiful single seat cover creates the clean look of a racing seat. The cover easily unclips to allow room for your favourite passenger while the neat micro-bikini fairing adds a custom touch to the front end.

2012 DUCATI MONSTER 696

Everyday usability

Ducati has always listened to feed-back from its passionate Monster owners and constantly responded with subtle changes to perfect the Monster 696. Last year’s comfort-enhancing 20mm bar-riser and new subframe ready to accept the passenger-friendly grab-rail accessory are now complemented with 43mm Kayaba front suspension for 2012. Ducati’s entry-level Monster remains as competitive as ever with optional ABS and a special 696+ specification.

Enhancing the “less-is-more” philosophy that has made the Monster a global legend, the Monster 696 continues to redefine expectations. Every finely engineered element of the chassis and engine is on display, allowing its true beauty to be showcased for all to see. With its thin waistline and wide handlebars, the Monster 696 provides unrivalled ergonomics, striking a carefully designed balance between performance and everyday usability that will appeal to a wide range of riders. Sport-derived chassis technology and the proven power and flexibility of the legendary Ducati L-Twin engine, make the Monster 696 as comfortable in city traffic as on the open road.

Riding the 696

The riding position of the Monster 696 has been specifically designed to put the rider firmly in control. With its low 770mm (30.3in) seat height, easy-to-reach handlebars and user-friendly 4-point adjustable levers, every rider will find it easy to master.

The beautifully sculpted fuel tank cover allows maximum comfort and control and the narrowing of the ‘waist’ area of the 696 has the same effect as lowering the seat height, making it easier to get both feet flat on the ground. Careful attention to every detail has led to a substantial weight saving, making the Monster 696 the lightest in its class at an impressive 161kg (355lb) (dry weight). Passenger comfort and safety are also carefully considered, with neat, under-seat grab handles moulded into the seat unit maximising pillion security without detracting from the legendary Monster 696 styling or external grab-handles available as an accessory from Ducati Performance.

696 power trip

The 696 engine produces 80hp (59kW) and 50.6lb-ft (7kgm) of torque ensuring a smooth and powerful delivery for a relaxed and enjoyable ride as well competitive and owner-friendly service intervals of 7,500 miles (12,000 kilometres).

The highly efficient, lightweight engine uses a bore and stroke of 88x57.2mm and, like the 796, features an advanced APTC ‘wet’ clutch. With a ‘slipper’ type action that prevents destabilising of the rear-end under aggressive down-shifting, the APTC clutch also gives the extra benefit of a super-light feel at the lever, a great benefit in stop-start city traffic. The oil-bath clutch represents a power-enhancing weight reduction over the ‘dry’ system as well as having a considerably quieter operation.

Providing a deep and rich exhaust tone within current regulations is no mean feat, but the Monster 696 definitely provides Ducati’s famous L-Twin sound. Its bold, high-level twin mufflers not only make a striking style statement, but also provide a healthy increase in power and torque and ideal positioning for two lambda exhaust gas sensors, crucial for the optimisation of fuelling and emissions.

696 chassis

Outstanding handling and control is provided by brand new 43mm Kayaba forks offering 120mm (4.7in) of finely controlled travel. At the rear, a progressive Sachs monoshock unit provides adjustability in both spring preload and damping.

Lightweight 3-spoke aluminium alloy wheels increase agility and reduce rider effort and use 120/60ZR front and 160/60ZR rear Pirelli Angel ST tyres. The end result provides a light, predictable and confidenceinspiring “feel” with outstanding stability at a wide range of speeds. The Brembo brakes deliver exceptional braking power front and rear, enhancing rider safety. 320mm front floating discs are gripped by 4-piston, radially mounted callipers, while a 245mm rear disc works in combination with a twin-piston calliper. This powerful braking set-up offers unrivalled feel and feedback that inspires confidence across a broader spectrum of riding abilities. Riders looking for even more security will benefit from the optional ABS system.

Every carefully selected component of the Monster 696 has a net benefit to the overall weight of the machine. The dry weight of 161kg (355lb) not only enhances manoeuvrability and ease of use, but also contributes directly to increased performance of both braking and acceleration.

Factory-personalised

Throughout its long and established history, the Monster’s cult following has always attracted personalisation. With Ducati’s tempting in-house accessory range offering so many custom-fit parts, nearly every Monster is different.

The 696+ is a factory-personalised model featuring some neat designer touches. A beautiful single seat cover creates the clean look of a racing seat and easily unclips to allow room for a passenger while the neat micro-bikini fairing adds a custom touch to the front end.

696 colours

The Monster 696 is available in red with red Trellis frame and black wheels or two choices of dark stealth or stone white, both with matte black frames and black wheels. The Monster 696 can be further personalised from a wide range of additional colour schemes available within the innovative Monster Art program.