Think Ducati and there’s a high chance you’ll conjure up an image of a blood red sports bike. Or possibly high running costs, iffy electrics and rubber bands cranking the quirky desmo valve gear.
But what about a cheap and cheerful bike which is not only bordering on classic status, but had made up two-thirds or more of Ducati’s output since it was introduced in 1993? Originally designed by Miguel Angel Galluzi, the Ducati Monster came from an original plan to enter the cruiser market, but instead provided a cost-effective ‘parts bin special’ from existing models. That created a naked bike with a low cost thanks to a 900 Supersport motor, a frame from the 851 and forks from a 750 Supersport. Not only did it allow an entry-level Ducati with engine sizes starting at 400cc, but the range also included high-spec specials and the Monster also became a popular platform for custom bike builders.
And it’s still possible to pick up a cheap Monster. This poor little Duke was stolen and recovered. Ironically the theft damage was minimal, but annoying. The ignition lock was chored, there’s some fresh damage to the paint, and the owner threw the key away as he was so certain he’d never see the cheap Ducati again.
I found the munter Il Monstro at an autojumble, where a neighbour of the previous owner had offered to get rid of it, and for reasons I’ve since forgotten, I picked it up. It’s not moved since I got it…
As a 600cc Ducati Monster, there’s always the odd DesmoDue racer looking for parts or a potential race bike, but the problem is that selling Ducati parts can be a painful experience, let alone a complete, less than perfect, bike. And I think I’m the only person who has bought a Ducati without asking when the belts were changed.
The Ducati Monster history began with the M900 in 1993, the M600 and M400 in 1994 and the M750 in 1996. And to empty the parts bins, several limited editions appeared, including the Monster City.
2000 saw the M900 gain fuel injection, and 2001 saw the Monster S4. 2002 celebrated the WSB career of Carl Fogarty with a run of 300 Ducati Monster S4 Fogarty bikes.
2005 introduced the S2R Desmodue and S4RS Testastretta with the engine from the Ducati 999. A year alter and the Monster 695 appeared. Then came the 1100 and 696, which was the first Ducati to sell more than 10,000 in a single year.
The current Ducati Monster range comprises of the 695,696,796,1200 and 1200S. We’ll try and do a more comprehensive history when we’ve managed to figure out how to fit in all the changes and special models without writing an entire book on the things!
In the meantime, here’s a great example of how to resurrect a Ducati Monster on a budget. And there’s a wide selection to suit available on eBay.
Shame it’s not March, Scott , you could have the Mad March Monster Mashup article, super -alliterative 馃檪 !! PS Gordon’s almost there,slight cash flow probs but I’ve sold my Scoob private number plate so next week he should be stickered, serviced, and up for sale (famous last words :))