2022 Ducati Monster - Not All Change Is Good

[@TheRealWSKlass]

I bought one last year. The Urban setting works well for in-town commutes. Touring works great for long distance, provided you don't open the throttle too much. Sport mode is obviously for the full range of power and speed. One of my favorite traits of this bike is the customization of each mode. You can down-torque it; turn on or off features; and otherwise use it as a training bike or an advanced bike based on the customization. Sports mode as well as in any other mode, when in high speeds, this bike eats up fuel fast. I travel nearly 200 miles on one tank however, while in Touring mode and lose about twenty miles or so in Sports mode when riding long distances. Is it the best for long distances? No. It does feel safer than the bikes I have ridden int eh past when it comes to maneuverability and escaping dangerous situations. I love my Monster and while I'm sure there are better bikes out there, when you bond with a bike, you stand by it. This is mine for life!

[@burner188]

100%. I'm loving mine so far as well. The flickability of this bike is insane and the L-twin has the punch when you need it at throughout the rev range.

[@Speedracer155]

It’s the most beautiful in the Middle weight segment!

[@fingolfin3843]

on looks, I do absolutaly agree

[@WilsonWan97]

I see a lot sport bike KZbinrs saying how much they love the new monsters and how much sporty it got. But I still like the old monster anyway. Great video.

[@aminjan56]

🎯

[@markhollidge8514]

Great video Scott. Refreshing to hear someone give their honest opinion for a change. 👍👍

[@matt2wheels]

Great review and sum up Scott. Last time I was shopping around for bikes I really wanted a Monster. Especially liked the 821 Monster. Had 2 test rides on that, loved it. Then had a chance to ride the 1200 Monster, the stock one, not the S and boy that bike but a huge grin on my face, it was angry all the time. Both these previous gen Monsters were absurdly fun. Ended up buying a BMW R1200R in the end though as I needed more luggage space. Not regretting my decision by any means, but have to admit the Monster is a more fun bike. Then took out this current gen Monster for a test ride because why not. I heard all the opinions about it not being a proper monster and all and had to see it for myself. And indeed, the experience was very much how you described it. Plenty of power, very precise and scalpel like. Also more comfortable than the previous Monsters I think. Quick shifter I found pretty decent (coming from the beemer, it's no surprise). I also found the bike very light, small and agile compared to the previous gen Monsters I tried. Overall, a very decent bike. But yes, compared to the MT09 I tried, it's not much different other than the badge. And I'd say the 890 Duke and the Triumph Street Triple both have more character than this Ducati. Interestingly, it went from the most fun and flavourful bike of the bunch to the level of the most bland one, the MT09. That's not to say these are not excellent bikes, both the Duc and the MT are great middle weight nakeds, but they don't have that aspirational feel to them. Which is a shame especially for the Monster. In my eyes, it went from coveted forever bike for many, to the first bike well off people buy when they wanna get onto two wheels. And I get it, this latter is probably a better target market, but the tame Monster is a loss for the motorcycle community.

[@JuniorJr_23]

I was very close to buying the Monster, but for a few thousand more I went with the SEXY Streetfighter V2. The appearance of the new Monster still looks very good.

[@krisv5591]

If you get a chance, a review on the 2022 kawasaki z900 would be great :)

[@wandering_armadillo]

I prefer the aesthetics of the exposed frame of prior generations. Great review of the latest version of this vibrating machine.

[@SanFranciscoRiderr]

great review - i like this bike a lot, i did consider it when i got my streefighter v4 - you cant go wrong with monster

[@neilallen460]

It had to be said, and someone finally did!

[@conscious4895]

Very interesting and novel take on the new Monster, Scott. I appreciated that you reviewed the DNA of the Monster and not just the look of the new frame as opposed to the trellis frame, as in most reviews. I wonder if Ducati missed the opportunity to turn the Monster into a neo-retro design, rather than into a naked bike. The trellis frame was not only a visual cue but also created a feel and a vibe to the bike. Why not update the trellis frame to maintain that feel/vibe and create competition for Speed Twin, Z900Rs, XSR900, etc rather than make it into a watered down Streetfighter?

[@NothingToProve]

Agreed!!!

[@dukie1616]

Definitely agree with you. Probably for cost though, because casting is more cost effective than welding up a frames in jigs. Also they really wanted to stiffen up the frame. The old trellis frame was so beautiful.

[@user-hf8ie8mf3n]

Interesting take. 👍

[@martyn_g]

I think the looks have lost the “wow” factor. It kinda looks a little mundane now.

[@gcSpec13]

Good video as always! Would you consider any of the ducati scramblers more "monster-like" and if so why?

[@bigg16]

Once again a Brilliant Review.👌

[@bostjanplut]

Thank you for your honest opinion. Appreciate it. 👍

[@jonk5363]

I've been trying to compare this bike with the 1100 Evo as my next purchase and was going to leave a question asking which you preferred. I don't need to ask that question! Great video, thanks...

[@NothingToProve]

1100 Evo is the best Monster in the last 30 years, imho. The best looking is the 1993 I showed in the video. Sure you have to work on the 1993 Monster a little more but all bikes that old need extra care, just like I do as I age. I rode the 2011 1100 EVO back in 2018, loved it, today, I regret not buying it. ride safe, Scott

[@CorvusHyperion]

Great bike but now just an MT09 with an L-twin now

[@markb3180]

Great review Scott, must say I think the new Monster looks amazing!

[@cabralad]

For a few grand more, get the streetfighter v2, the monster has lost its identity.

[@NothingToProve]

Agreed!

[@IanTed]

Same engine in my Multi V2S, just had my first service and still amazed it’s a 937cc engine with ‘only’ 115hp, feels a lot quicker. A lot of fun despite moving ‘down’ from a 1250GS. The engine does prefer the mid range above 4000 but that’s not a problem, to be honest I love it and there’s more than enough punch for the road, in fact on a country ‘B’ road there isn’t much better.

[@lpete531]

Totally agree, I have MS 950s, b roads is much fun 👍🏽

[@Mikikb]

Hi Scooth, I m totally agree with you, its not a Monster anymore and sales will let know ducati about it. Congratulations as always ! Mike

[@capz3217]

Well, I just compared the 2019 Monster sales numbers vs the new Monster's in 2021 (leaving out 2020 because of its special nature). Monsters sold in 2019: 9.019 vs 8.734 in 2021. Now, keep in mind, that the 2019 figure includes both the 821 and 1200 model (couldn't find separate numbers). Seems to me, like Ducati's decision wasn't half bad.

[@toshy]

@@capz3217 Actually, the 937 Monster deliveries started in mid-late June 2021 (reviewers got their units in May 2021), so 8.734 units in only half year is HUGE.

[@larryvanputten4048]

Too bad. All the real Ducati characteristics disappear bit by bit. Trellis, Desmo, clutch, sound, powerdelivery, etc. They become Audicati's now. If this Monster came out of the blue we would probably rate it higher, but everybody who remembers the sound and looks of a 916... aaaah this nostalgia!

[@shadimagdy8196]

That's what people want mate@ more power less weight. The scambler is now the bike for city and you have diavel for cruising around. This montser is the best as it wears different hats a beginner bike on urban mode and super fun middle weight naked at sport.

[@FreddieB1957]

The famous monster is turnt into an average naked, bad choice Ducati

[@guypurdy654]

Very well put about the loss of character, I changed my mind about buying one and chose a low mileage 1100S with ABS (rare and one the last made before the Evo model) and absolutely love it!

[@suppersready4you]

Great review Scott, What a shame that the Monster lost the look and the dna of a real Monster (2011 Evo)

[@ninjamaster7724]

I think the motorcycle world needs to learn the difference between weight divisions? If 1000 is heavyweight,then 500 would be middleweight,750 would be light-heavyweight and anything between that and 1000 would be cruiserweight.

[@hyedefinition1080]

I just got my first Monster. It's a 2013 Monster 796 that I rode down from Northern AZ to Southern AZ. Having never ridden a Ducati and only Japanese bikes, the trip down from the Mountains was one of the most exhilarating experiences. Instinctively I started using the clutch to tame the bike and the bike will warn you to keep it revved even at 80mph lol. I thought I purchased a bike that needed work, but looking at reviews it's completely normal for a Monster. I would not change it, the Monster requires your complete attention at all times, sad this isn't the case with the newer Monsters.

[@kseth6992]

Ha ha .. not bad ! The trellis frames need to come back as do the curved exhaust designs . That was a work of art , it was a ducati . Not this . Everything can’t be about power and electronics .

[@nomadicag5599]

I hate these single pipe thing coming out of engine and fail to understand why they removed previous double pipe version. It’s loosing some kind of shape or symmetry at the bottom but perhaps it’s only me. Same they did it to Scramblers too.

[@Toofast821]

I had a 2016 797 I had a 821 2018 nothing turns like a Ducati but it’s too expensive to ride daily parts are way too expensive

[@paulconnell1309]

Good honest review Scott. Thanks. I'm riding a 2020 Street Triple R (thanks for the recommendation). Fine in traffic, you can cruise at 50 kph in 5th and just quick shift down if traffic appears. 12-15kph in 1st idling at 1000 rpm. I like the idea of a Ducati but maybe the Monster won't be the bike for round town? Maybe not worth trading??

[@Jurassic_Mark]

aww sad to hear this :( I was always a big fan of the 'emozione' that the Ducati Monster brought, sounds like that is missing in this model.

[@Ni3K]

First Monster 900 was also based on the 851 Superbike frame, afaik.

[@NothingToProve]

Yes, it was!

[@abyb1923]

First they ruined the street fighter with no exposed frame. Now they did the same to the monster. Shoulda kept my 848.

[@philippluklas]

Not sure I heard a clear verdict. Would you pick this over a Z900RS? I know, not an apples to apples, but I’m deciding between those two bikes. Looking to get the fun that is most fun and sparks emotions, but cannot test either

[@NothingToProve]

Well, the RS looks better imho. But the Ducati will probably go faster in a corner, simply because it is lighter and feels lighter than the RS. But I think I'd take the RS over this now that they've dropped the trellis frame and single sided swing arm...etc. It no longer looks like a Monster, rumor has it that Ducati will make a "Classic" Monster in a few years, brining back all the classic design cues that made the monster iconic. So get the RS now and then when Ducati makes the classic monster, trade in the RS for the classic monster! 😁🤞

[@philippluklas]

@@NothingToProve oh man, thanks so much for replying and your thoughtful perspective! That’s a really interesting point that Ducati might bring it back as a classic Monster some day! I think you convinced me and I’ll go with the RS for now

[@aramparonian7914]

Tuono 660 factory 🚀

[@asterix908]

The iconic design is gone. I can't tell the difference between this and the mt07, fz07.

[@JR-vm4tm]

It's disgusting I can't believe Ducati have ruined their most popular bike

[@rogergress9520]

I just enjoy your reviews so very much! I enjoy the complete and efficient reviews that I truly feel I learn something new about each bike you review. A commanding review that rises to the top of all the Review Charts! Your hard work, knowledge and KZbin Personality, is Superior in my view. When is a Monster Not a Monster!? A Monster Review! RideWithPeace.

[@tiborhorvath7359]

Good Morning Scott, I’ve just checked at Becker-Tiemann’s... they still have the anniversary model you spoke of. Suggest go and buy it and keep it.Think you deserve a keeper too You’ve cost me a bit of money over the years... ( For which I’m glad 😃 ) I’ve mentioned the K1600 B in the past but last year a GSA 1250 joined my collection too ( rally hp colours). Your review of the monster is accurate. Last year I looked at the new model and felt they’d made a mistake by omitting the Trellis frame, so opted for a pre owned 2016 model 1200R ( the air cooled evo’s weren’t available at the time on the pre owned market where we live. It’s a fantastic bike. I’m not interested In lap times... the aesthetics and rider feel are what matters. Motorcycles are generally an emotive purchase and I think Ducati may have made a mistake. Perhaps they’ll relaunch the trellis frame one day... and call it “ Monster Classic “ Just watched Miguel Galluzzi’s video again on why he called it Monster in the first place ( great vid) Hope Ducati watch your channel too. Anyways keep on keeping on. Thank you for your continued efforts in making KZbin videos. Kind regards Tibor

[@NothingToProve]

If I was not buying my wife a bike this year, I'd be looking into getting that bike! It is all about emotion and how it feels when you ride. 👍😁

[@Anabol27]

Hello. great review as always. I would like to inquire about a test of the new Suzuki GSX-s 1000, it will be soon? Greetings from Poland. (ODRA river R.I.P :-(

[@NothingToProve]

Sorry, I'm trying but there are none available near me, they are a scarcity in Europe right now. Maybe next year. ride safe, Scott

[@nope.c]

No trellis No monster

[@NothingToProve]

agreed...

[@winterbottom3258]

Hi Scott can review Kawasaki z900rs

[@michaelfrancis-vb7tp]

So I ask, between this and the Moto Guzzi 85TT, and or the Moto Guzzi Stone where does the Monster fit?

[@NothingToProve]

it doesn't...well at least any more...

[@abazhlek]

This bike is the most fun to ride on the street. Bar none!

[@zipper978]

The new Ducati looks like a Japanese bike. I would pay more for the character of the Italian flare. I paid more for my Superduke 1290 for the cool factor.

[@NothingToProve]

Agree with you on the looks!

[@mcfly7703]

I don't agree with that. The Japanese motorcycles nowadays all look like autobots (transformers) on two wheels while the monster looks more like a modern classic bike.

[@MandelloUK]

Sounds like a lawn mower at low RPMs.....

[@michaelhayward7572]

Dreadful looking thing for a Ducati. Could be an MT07 or Chinese clone underneath all that plastic and plumbing and sharp lines. Is there even a v twin in there visually? I dunno, i can't see one. Trellis frame? Nope. Must be the latest CF Moto 900 thingamajig. Or a Benelli.... S2, hell, even S4R owners must be turning in their nightmares.

[@Xlac]

Everything that made a Ducati Monster a Ducati Monster is gone. No more trellis frame, no more dry clutch. This Monster looks like any other bike in this category but it just more expensive. Absolutely no character.

[@alaaalahmad3069]

Can you test ride/review The yamaha MT03 from 2006-2012 with the 660cc single cylinder. I have the same bike & would like to get your take on it.

[@craigjohnson6597]

You gave the supersport a glowing review and this a negative review. They share the same engine and alot of other components. 🤔

[@NothingToProve]

This has nothing to do with the Supersport (they are two totally different bikes in two totally different groups) and everything to do with the history of the Monster, that created the naked group as we know it today. They were unique, different, now they are the same as every other naked bike. That's what's sad. If you don't understand the history of the Monster, then take a look and inform yourself and if you do you'll probably love the Monster for what it is and how different it was from any other bike you can buy. Today, well, it's just another naked bike. Sad. Is todays Monster a good bike, yes, is it a Monster? Nope! take care, Scott

[@craigjohnson6597]

@@NothingToProve I get what you're saying. I've just ordered the SP version. ✌🏽

[@Kalanioccc]

nothing about the new monsters makes me want to switch from my '16 monster 1200R. the streetfighter v4s on the other hand...

[@joshmusser9934]

I had a 2012 monster 1100 Evo. I loved it but had to get rid of it. I was thinking about this one in the sp. figure the bump in hp makes up for the less torque but this bike is a lot lighter so should be a better ride. Thanks for the honest review.

[@ocm1774]

I just bought this bike, and at the beginning I was really close to return it, after the second ride, it made me change my mind, and I will keep it, I love the bike, all thanks to a video with the full termignoni exhaust the bike wakes up like a monster really.

[@BenjiBoy09]

If you weren't driving on the right side of the road I could have sworn you were in England. That place looks exactly like where I live.

[@norbert_engel]

Vanilla is very accurate IMO

[@Danny59330]

What is a monster supposed to be ?

[@dimitristzimis3238]

It looks like a Chinese effort to replicate "Monster"....

[@NothingToProve]

🤣😒🙄🙁 never thought about it that way but yea, now that you've said it...hmm...yep. 🙁

[@dimitristzimis3238]

@@NothingToProve 😂😂😂

[@chrispekel5709]

No way, the Chinese would actually build a trellis frame

[@aminjan56]

you either go to different hair dresser or your hair dresser has got more experience now -- quality of haircut has improved too 😃

[@karlodraskovic1202]

Ktm duke II vs new duke 890? You could say the same critic 🤷‍♂️

[@Romstei]

Best Monster ever !

[@jdam28k]

I really feel like the Scrambler range is more like the og Monster, the new Monsters are more like Ducati's take on an mt07/09.

[@ilovepizza8263]

new monster looks lame!

[@elijames3041]

Vary bike

[@ragerider6283]

Nice review. I really like this latest version of the Monster as a fun & charasmstic road bike but the lack of adjustable suspension for this class & price is an error imo. However I'm very interested in the imminent Monster SP which will address this & potentially make it class leading but also too expensive I suspect.

[@peteralexander1155]

I think somethings off with the looks off that engine. It just looks a bit awkward.

[@sinishasekulich1979]

Great job Scott.. Thanks.. It is for sure no longer monster..but it is Ducati… NTP….. Ride safe…

[@marksardar4557]

Great analysis.

[@JSweec]

finally someone who argues for the nostalgic :) good one Scott! btw I love my supersport and to me that’s the monster with fairing I have ever hoped for. let’s hope ducati doesn’t take that away ha!

[@matto108]

Thanks for your video Scott, I always enjoy your content. So I'm a new rider and recently bought this machine. I needed to start with a 35kW bike (I'm based in Switzerland, and going for my full A licence now). I was also looking at the Tuono Factory and Triumph Trident. In the end I went with the Monster for a few reasons (aesthetics, higher power once restrictions are removed, Ducati badge, ergos for my own height & weight, and of course the emotional response it gave me!). As a new rider I wasn't comparing this to older versions of the Monster (which I also really like); I just experienced it for what it is today rather than what it was before. I have to say I am having an absolute blast on this bike (even on the lower 35kW version). It's huge fun on the open road, at higher speeds, and on twisties. Super responsive, tight and light. I don't feel like it could get away from me too much. I also agree that it's not really a city bike; fine in small towns etc. but I would not like to be using this in heavy traffic and low speeds. It runs hot too so if you live in a warmer climate in heavy traffic... yuck. And although it lacks the iconic trellis frame of yesteryear, this bike still turns heads believe me! I went for Aviator Grey with red rims & Termignoni exhaust (street, not track) - it's badass. I love this bike and am sure many other riders like me will too. Ride safe guys!

[@Otterplus]

For the money I’d rather have an MT09-SP instead of the Italian variant. Either that, or the Austrian super scalpel 890 Duke R

[@mrtobiasreiper4714]

890 Duke sounds a better deal.

[@pimpthyride]

@@mrtobiasreiper4714 I would have some doubts on KTM due to comfort and reliability. I will be testing the MT-09 shortly.

[@ferociousfrankie]

I would get the streetfighter V2 if your budget allows it.

[@ironken1796]

Not fully adjustable suspension ruined it for me. I bought a 890 R.

[@Otterplus]

@@pimpthyride idk about your area but I’m more likely to come across a dealer with ktm experience than Ducati. Plus an 890 is more distinctive compared to the plastic styling of the new monster

[@ionutzcar8158]

i like more my 695 than this anonimous bike

[@bilalchaudhary8268]

Appreciate your honesty Scott. I too love the 1100 motor. I ride a Multistrada 1100 and it's a joy.

[@BadCo1999]

That Ducati "shake" isn't only on this one. 797 acts the same way. Happier the harder you push it. Same with the 821 I Noticed as well. I can't speak of the 1200 though. Have yet to ride it.

[@marksmallman4572]

No Ducati likes to be below 4000,its a L twin.

[@ShineBright__]

What a crucial review you nailed it once again 👏 if i had to choose a middleweight bike i'd go for a triple no doubt.....

[@dry509]

Did 2021-22 mt-09 do it….have a smooth quick shifter at different rpm’s?

[@NothingToProve]

yes

[@aminjan56]

🎯 as usual. the first couple of mins take on new ducati with respect to older ducati is epic. great learning for newbies like me .

[@just_one_opinion]

My 21 V4s dont like to be under 4g either.

[@brianbelcher7279]

Is 937cc really middleweight though?

[@NothingToProve]

Just look up how big the Kawasaki Z900 motor actually is...and they call that a middleweight too. (btw it's 948cc)

[@jjames2162]

Great review - totally agree. I wanna love it but it’s just not that exciting …

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, now the Monster is just like every other middleweight naked. It's no longer "different".

[@graydemunter5850]

I do not like this model. They killed the monster

[@jtottonb]

You mean, "not bad" Volkswagen

[@ApexMotow]

Your honesty gets 2 thumbs up! Boom-Boom!

[@quinnkirlew9892]

The Monster was in an weird position of competition with either the retros or the sport nakeds. Ducati could have taken it to either extreme, it seems they went all in on competing with the 900cc naked segment. The scramblers fill the retro segment, but as you mentioned, it is strange that they have the streetfighter v2 in the 900cc mix as well.

[@NothingToProve]

Couldn't agree with you more!

[@menad2535]

A nice review that helps beginners like me.

[@undecodable6145]

Few days ago, ducati declared that in mid September there will be a new ducati monster SP

[@NothingToProve]

Yea, that's the pattern when they release a new bike, a year later there is always an "S" version.

[@t.m9341]

you have to fill it every 100miles?

[@PaulSvk84]

Ride the bike in sport mode after the break in period. This bike is very, very fast!

[@NothingToProve]

Well, I have ridden the other nakeds on this chart in sport mode, they are faster and not by just a little. They made a mistake by trying to compete with Triumph, KTM, Yamaha, Aprilia and others in the performance area of the middleweight nakeds. The monster was special before, now it's just another naked, I hope one day they will come back to what made the monster famous. ride safe, Scott

[@Bow-to-the-absurd]

Its a horrid looking thing.

[@davidpark5621]

Scott- don't forget Ducati's own Hypermotard 950 as part of the middleweight naked group, as it uses the same engine as the new Monster. In fact, I think it might fit in better than the SF V2 in your comparison chart (I have one, and it's much more versatile than the company would have you believe!)

[@NothingToProve]

I hope to ride that next week! Really interested to feel how it handles. But yea, it's a "motard" so it's not in this group, although there are many bikes that go across groups and the Hypermotard is one of them. ride safe, Scott

[@suede00]

Cada día más japonesa, no me gusta, prefiero mi s2r800

[@NothingToProve]

Agreed!!!

[@stefbrouns]

This or a tuono 660 factory?

[@bimmer130i9]

I drove them both, de monster has a lot more grunt below 5-6-7k rpm's. On the tuono you have to wait a bit till it is above 7500rpms. Top Nm of 93 of the monster is already at 6500rpms. Top Nm of tuono is at 8500rpms. It's what you like... i like the instant grunt down under and some love the rather Top end power like the tuono has. Just ride them both because it is a big difference ;)

[@NothingToProve]

Tuono 👍😁

[@pistolpete6321]

Appreciate your honest review!

[@dry509]

Good review.

[@brianq103]

I'll keep my 1200S...

[@MrMoto948]

Waffle

[@dukie1616]

Right with you👏

[@anzemedvesek8191]

The heat from the engine is stupid,quickshifter is slow,i didn't like the bike at all.I own an old s2r and it ia a much better bike.

[@anzemedvesek8191]

I had an multistrada 950S,same problem,heat and quickshifter,this 950 engine is rubbish

[@user-hf8ie8mf3n]

👍👍🇨🇦