New 2023 Ducati Monster SP: IS IT WORTH IT?

[@bjfikky]

The answer to any Ducati “is it worth it question” is always NO. The answer to any Ducati “do you want it question” is always YES.

[@raoulduke3770]

I bought my 2011 Hypermotard 1100 used in 2016 for $7500 with 7k on the clock, the first valve adjustment already completed and about $2k in upgrades. It was definitely worth it, especially considering I can probably get at least what I paid if I ever decide to sell it.

[@SSS-mp8th]

Ducati's are never worth it as in value for money but they mostly look great. The SP though like the Streetfighter V2 just have been priced too high. I'll take the Mt-09 SP and pocket the rest.

[@keltecdan]

I’ll stick with Japanese. I don’t want the headaches or the possibility of getting stranded in Timbuktu.

[@M4NAH1MEK0]

@@SSS-mp8th 😅 Poor boy....

[@aluisious]

It's all fun and games until your motor frags itself before the second valve check.

[@romanhwc]

Great breakdown. Really like the SP aesthetics. Still love my 2022 monster + tho.

[@dirkdaenen]

Standard Monster for me… at this price: Streetfighter is within reach… I’m with you on the Duke… Monster is great looking…

[@Ellisian]

really enjoyed the editing flairs in this video!

[@wdmzjwqy]

In Australia, the monster sp is only around $1000 cheaper than the street fighter V2, it would be interesting to see a video comparing the two

[@FunWithAJ]

Agreed

[@aluisious]

The SFV2 ergos are pretty aggressive, even for a street bike. Having had a CBR600, I'm not going back to anything remotely close to that.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

It would be an interesting comparison. Do you want the top shelf version of one model or the bargain version of another model from the same brand? 🤔

[@mikehartzheim4576]

I saw a video can’t remember by who, but he test rode both and his verdict was the SP handled better, but the ride, top speed, and gear shifting were better on the V2. He did like both and claimed the SP was well worthy, but said he would take the V2. On the other hand the SP makes it max torque and horsepower way earlier than the V2 so I think being a lighter bike it might perform better on the track. 6500 RPM vs 10,200 RPM. On the roads with less corners the V2 would definitely have the advantage.

[@david-johntiemens2010]

Your humor really shined in this video. I actually LOLed a couple of times - thanks for what you do man.

[@danny100d]

I’d pick the 937 simply because I fit on one with a 30” inseam. The KTM is the better deal on paper, but doesn’t work in the field for shorter riders (similar to the street triple). I’ve owned a street triple and recently sat on an 890 and new 937. The 937 fits really nice - and perhaps better with the lower oem seat. I plan to buy a used 21+ and put Ohlins cartridges and shock on it after I ride it for a bit.

[@PetjeWinner]

There’s a Steet Triple LRH too with a 78cm seat height.

[@gpzfan5272]

I have a 29” inseam and I’m happy on a Tiger 1200. Maybe you just need to be more confident/get used to stopping with one foot down? There really isn’t any need to get both feet flat on the floor.

[@JelloThatsMellow]

@@PetjeWinner has worse suspension components. Lack of full adjustment too. The springs are softer too, so heavier short people can't ride it well.

[@pistolpete6321]

Great video! I love it but that’s pretty expensive and for just a bit more money you can get the Streetfighter V2 which has a lot more HP.

[@dansteiner9393]

I love the SFv2, and yes, it has more power. I seriously considered it, but went with the Monster. Why? Because the Monster is just more fun. The SF requires you to really rev the hell out of it to extract that power. Also, NO fuel gauge or cruise control are immediate dealbreakers.

[@KiwiMoto72]

it’s not all about HP. The downs most of my time on the track. I recently moved from a V4S Pani to a V2 Pani on the track. Becuase of more manageable power .. More HP doesn’t and shouldn’t = more power

[@mikehartzheim4576]

Bingo. I stated that in a previous post. The SP will handle better on the track and makes its horsepower and torque at 6500 where as the V2 makes it at 10,200. The SP will corner faster, launch out of them better and it’s lighter than the V2. Horsepower on the road gives the V2 and edge there along with a smother ride, however, if you want to fast in a straight line get a Busa or a V4.

[@shamil14basaev88]

streetfighter is heavier and it's hot as hell, you literally burn your legs to blisters. I have supersport with the same engine as a monster and it already has more power than you can use on the street. It has tons of torque on any revs and as fast as panigale v2 up to 100 mph. Considering that monster is much lighter it should be a beast for road riding and twisties/canyon runs

[@Pmor75]

For me personally I would go for the standard bike. I guess the SP is more suitable for the track rider. I'm seriously considering a standard one.

[@ScoutBobber_UK]

THE BEST bike comparison video I haver EVER seen. Thank you.

[@johnalden5616]

I'm with you on the 890. Love the motor. Love the sound. Styling is just okay.

[@aluisious]

The 890 exhaust is so ugly it's birth control for the rider.

[@jafo4u508]

As always a great informative video! Thanks a bunch mate.

[@jafferarfatkhan6013]

Thank you for the information. I was looking for these details

[@donaldelder540]

Why is there still no cruise control ?

[@ssmith954]

I like the rear tail design - hope they use this for the next upgrade to the Supersport.

[@streetsandpeaks3013]

I think we are all waiting for the super sport to go on a diet with the new frame and of course come in an SP of its own!

[@squidgersquidger]

I had a monster 1200s for 3 years. That had ohlins and i fitted termi exhaust which decatted it and had it remapped. I was a bit worried about non adjustable suspension when i ordered the monster 937. I got the monster + and have to say its a great bike. The suspension is perfect for me at 11 stone and instead of opting for a £1500 termi slip on, i went for the SC Project dual carbon option and have to say IMO its the better exhaust and cost £800. The bike is really light so the power to weight isn't too far off the old 1200s and the handling is superb. Alot of bike for much less than the 1200s.

[@dennis.lc8407]

How is the sound? I had the chance to hear the bike when it passed me by and I must say its not very pleasant to listen to. Big difference to your older 1200?

[@Fred-rz3ez]

@@dennis.lc8407 The sound is awesome. Much deeper and louder and it burbles nicely on the overrun. Also pops when changing gear at higher revs.

[@scandimc]

I really like this new SP, but the price is hard to swallow. Especially when you can get a 890 duke r (its coming an 990 duke r next year also) for way cheaper with 10hp more, same brakes and the WP suspension is almost as good as the ohlins

[@motobob]

Great point! :)

[@cp4512]

Or a Street Triple RS

[@gonzo221]

Or a Yamaha Mt09SP

[@brianglendenning1632]

But Ducati…

[@Lex-Rex]

Screw it. Might as well get a slightly used 1290 SDR and be done with it.

[@sn00pgreen]

I've got a new 890r and it's everything i'd ever want for a road bike, but that monster to me looks beautiful..I'd have to have a little ride though, if it was an even better bike than the duke then it's worth it..but I doubt it somehow

[@mikeyevs]

In exactly the same situation... if you do ride the monster please report back. 👍

[@FunWithAJ]

I'd love a video now on why you'd even consider thr monster or monster sp over the streetfighter aside from money

[@davidk5937]

No Marchesini forged wheels? I would’ve liked to have seen the bike shipped with the standard exhausted and upgraded wheels instead since most would probably elect to equip a full racing exhaust on their own. This Monster SP leaves me thinking that the Hypermotard SP would remain my choice when considering the two platforms. Plus, the livery on the Hypermotard SP in unbeatable.

[@AM-uk7jv]

Monster SP is like 40 lbs lighter than the HM SP. Even without forged wheels.

[@flobou2707]

The Termignioni exhaust is heavier than the original exhaust. Thats why we get this weight issue.

[@aallegritti1]

its the same weight as standard exhaust

[@flobou2707]

The original has 2.8 Kilos and the Termi has 3.1Kilos.

[@dukiemoto8676]

Last year I picked the 890R, although if this SP was out then, might’ve had to take that one instead.

[@jesseondrumsjd]

Unless you’re a professional a motorcycle is an emotional purchase. Man and machine need to click. I don’t mock anyones bike purchase I just ask, do you love it? If they do it’s the bike for them. I love my scrambler. I will upgrade to the super sport or monster at some point but the scramble is my pride and joy

[@AM-uk7jv]

890 Duke R doesn’t have preload adjustment on the forks. Plus there’s the cheese cams issue.

[@robertgagne9355]

My first and second choice in this genre has always been the MV Brutale 800RR, then the Triumph Street Triple RS. I have always liked the Monster but of the 3 it was shy on the goods, suspension mostly. This SP model comes in at a lesser price than the MV, with better suspension and brakes, it just may take the crown. I just bought a 22 Street Triple RS, so for now I'm good. If I wasn't such a Euro snob, I would certainly give the Yamaha MT 09 SP a closer look, but ... I am a Euro snob. The KTM is certainly a good bike, but Motorcycle Art it's not.

[@Marchautowerks]

I wouldn’t call myself a total euro snob but the mt-09sp is just so ugly I couldn’t spend my money on it. It’s sad because it’s the smartest choice. Reliable, cheaper, fantastic performer, best equips considering the price, cheaper and least often maintenance, cheaper parts in case of a drop, that triple engine and sound, cruise contol, ect ect, and regardless of what numbers are on paper keeps up or beats all the mid nakeds and seems to win every other vs article/vid if not just by flat out hands down win, it ends a tie but pushed into the lead by simple value per dollar! However style/color scheme, only a mother could love. I can’t get over the looks. Brutale is most beautiful hands down but closest dealer to me is 100miles and they are unreliable and take forever to get parts, warranty work, recalls, which will come up. I’ll also worry to much about it wherever I park it. I got enough project cars and toys I want a toy always ready to go. For me boiled down to the monster+ and striple rs. In my eyes the monsters only strength was it’s looks over the triumph. This monster sp is giving me something to think about but I still think I’ll go with the triumph, I think the 765 is a better engine for multiple reasons but a few quick hp, sound, heat to the groin!

[@MegaOwneador]

800RR is a beast ✌🏻

[@stephens2r338]

Adding Ohlins is a game changer. They actually feel softer and more comfortable at low speed but give more feedback and stiffness on the track. All the rest is personally pointless. I wished that they did the same as Aprilia used to on the RSV1000 and swapped the wheels for lighter magnesium ones. That was just as big of an improvement in handling as the suspension.

[@pamelablake7647]

You never mentioned the RE factory retro w spoked wheels than beer can alloys which comes in black and white w less info on speedo dial

[@streetsandpeaks3013]

Riding the 2022 Monster Plus in the city and the Rockies for the season I would not chase the exhaust for the cost, and after riding the 20mm higher seat I actually took it off because the seat surface is significantly narrower and harder, same power and dry weight (weird?), BUT at speed under hard braking - the Monster Plus brakes are solid but seem to fade so I would like the upgraded Brembo kit and about the suspension…the stock fork is comfortable on the road but stiffen up the adjustable rear spring a couple notches and you immediately feel how much better the Monster can be - only fair warning, stiffening the rear will go straight to your spine on high speed bumps on the freeway and create an immediate sense of imbalance to the front, aka the front will feel too soft (not to mention the fork dives under harsh braking). Bottom line, the Monster Plus can survive with the standard Brembo brakes but the forks need to go. Back to the original question, is the SP worth it??? How much is that fork upgrade and damper going to cost me?

[@rickwaldner8078]

I'm a Ducati fan all the way. but i have 2 cons about the new monster, I just like the look of my 2019 Monster821 stealth so much more then the new look. having a hard time getting past the new look for the monster. The second thing is for a upgrade in displacement, the over all power is not much different then the 821... why???

[@th33b33]

me too i hate the shiny look. The 821 stealth looks much better.

[@davidsewell8171]

Great explanation, decision made. Had been waivering a little but SP it is.

[@The2birddogs]

does it still have the cheap breaky breaky cast aluminum exhaust/foot peg mounts?

[@Dushyant933]

Why ohlins aren't manufacturing budget friendly suspensions for 300 cc category bikes, just like brembo is manufacturing bybre brakes as budget friendly brakes ?

[@Thekakanz]

I just ordered the SP so - yes, hopefully worth it!

[@xorbe2]

I checked 4 different Ducati forums, and only found one thread with minimal discussion of this new SP model. What gives? Just price?

[@Discotechque]

Question, why did Ducati drop the trellis frame design on the monster? Is it because of better performance with the new frame or is it to just make it more "modern" looking?

[@aallegritti1]

weight saving, handling

[@lordgibbness]

Could get an S1000R for the price, and they're really well finished and lovely to ride...

[@steveparish9210]

Excellent report thanks for the info, definitely worth the Xtra bucks

[@bySergZz]

fyi both standard version suspensions are Kayaba

[@ssriram87]

Brilliant video!

[@ninjamaster7724]

Z900RS XS Monster+937?Which one is better all round and which one would you pick if you could only have 1?

[@mehmetaliertan]

Both tried, i am a short man, z900rs feels very high quality and heavy, ducati best for me all day because of low seat and easy to ride in very slow speeds.

[@juliancobbaert7070]

@MOTOBOB, would you rather buy the Monster SP or the MT09 SP?

[@cameronsharp4088]

BOB! Can you review the Benelli Leoncino 800? I think it’s a budget rival to the FTR1200 and a great first bike!

[@stimpyman007]

I bought the monster + , simply because the bike suits me better than my previous bike, witch was a mt09 2014 . Even after putting hyperpro , is the monster stock or plus way better on the rear than the mt09 . So for me the sp version wasn’t worth the extra price

[@meattooth1303]

KTM 890 Duke R any day of the week unless the Ducati was priced the same unless my main focus was HP, which would point back to the KTM. I like the way the 890 looks but yes, the Monster looks better IMO.

[@lukaslombardo4736]

Bigger problem with the Ktm is the blipper and quick shifter that are already on the bike are hidden behind a paywall. I had a 790 that had 4 different oil leaks and the rear brake light didn’t work on my ride home from the dealer. Never Ktm again!

[@seespotride]

Never KTM for me too. My 890R leaked in 2 places. So they are making progress I guess

[@Eimhin1]

Great video!!

[@johnharvey5338]

Don’t know why they didn’t put the cams from the streetfighter as part of the upgrade for the extra costs.

[@Spike9803]

I was wondering about a comparison Between the Plus and the SP. I have been studying the specifications, but it’s nice to see the exact differences in equipment and appearance side by side. Still, I was expecting a head to head comparison in lap times and street riding. It stands to reason that the Olins suspension alone would enhance performance of the SP. Ditto the steering Damper and maybe the brakes. The Termi cans, so what? Here in the US the 937 Monster SP is an additional $2,600. This is a bargain as the Olins alone might cost this. I am an old guy (69yo next week). I am a lifelong motorcyclist, 56 years. Having said this, I don’t ride like I used to. I can still get down the road if you know what I mean, but I am more conservative especially when I ride alone. The Monster Plus will be fine for me as far as performance is concerned. There are factors of importance to older riders; weight and seat height. I am a smaller guy. I’ve been 5’-8” all my life, but at my last physical I measured 5’-6”. I’m shrinking!? THAT is a harsh reality! In addition, as you age you lose muscle mass. The seat height and wet weight (especially high up) is of prime importance to me now, yet I still want a performance motorcycle. The Monster 937 is a good choice for me, but I wish it had a fairing and hardbags. I use my motorcycle for transportation and touring. The average age of a motorcyclist in the US is 55yo. Lower, lighter motorcycles are good for seniors, women and novice riders as well. Motorcycle manufacturers take note.

[@alcatrazrider]

give us an overview on suzuki gsx-s gt+ model, thnx in a front.

[@francoiskeet2944]

Like the SP with the extras, however bought the + for the color. The red seat on SP just do Not do it for me.

[@craigtravis1095]

Any chance of an XSR900 vs SP comparison??

[@nairbyad7188]

"fully adjustable Ohlins"? I only see 1 adjuster on the rear unit!!!

[@Omar-kw5ui]

Why would you buy this over streetfighter v2?

[@dansteiner9393]

For a number of reasons. The SF is not as comfortable. It does not have a fuel gauge. It is not great at lower speeds. Most importantly… it’s not as much fun.

[@BLMann]

I bought the 23 monster + and I wouldn't pay the price difference for these slim upgrades. The brakes on my bike are absolutely phenomenal. They have already saved me from Florida man. Everything else on my bike feels top of the line. Leaning, cornering, giving it the beans. It just feels so easy and so smooth. I was riding in the interstate and looked down and I was casually doing 115. Didn't even notice really. TL;DR the monster plus is such a great bike they're going to have issues improving on it without drastically charging it.

[@nairbyad7188]

once you have a bike with Ohlins, you will be spoiled as I have been!

[@nairbyad7188]

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida_Man

[@BLMann]

@Nair Byad I bet. I'm gonna keep my monster plus for a few years and then probably get a multistrada or something meant for longer rides. Ride safe bro

[@Ronburgundy75]

SP model with standard wheels? I don’t think so.

[@fadetoblackMotorcycle]

It's a premium bike, the standard one is very very close to the 890r (which I have) these upgrades definitely take it to the next level over the KTM. have you ever tried ducati electronics? well it's the best of all, it's a little lighter and has a sportier attitude than the 890. ktm is fun-bike, Ducati is a little track-beast

[@Matt-zt6uc]

The SP looks awesome and I would definitely take it over a KTM however at that price for another grand i would have a V2

[@Matt-zt6uc]

Ah another thought! When are we going to see a V2 SP ?

[@peters6188]

Brakes on SP are over kill, the bike weighs actually more with stylimas and Öhlins. Shocks on Monster do however need to be upgraded. This can be done for £1200.

[@richiem458]

The SP needs another 10bhp and to be a £1000 cheaper before I would be interested. They should also make the electronic aids an option extra to keep the price down, as most riders who have that sort of spare money to buy one, have ridden bike with that sort of power for years without it.

[@shreyasjoshi4867]

In India, Street Triple RS actually costs less than the standard Ducati Monster.

[@ssriram87]

Yes. The more shocking thing is the price of the SuperSport 950 (esp. the S). Especially considering it still sticks to the old trellis frame.

[@valko999]

Great review I will buy Yamaha MT09SP now 🙂

[@royjones5567]

Your paying for the brand name and imo the quality of the product

[@Dius765RS]

The Monster has had its day. 👀 The Ducati V2 is where my money would be going... 👇

[@thetasmaniandevilispissedo1041]

Clearly the Monster SP !

[@Danny59330]

Great reveiw , yes it's Ducati Monster all the way .If you buy a cheaper bike your going to spend $$$ on upgrades , right so just go for it .

[@philelsey7639]

Its like the z900 rs do you want the basic or the se if it makes you feel good and you can afford it who gives a flying #### the sp is certainly a lovely looking bike against the hideous (imo) ktm.Great vid as always

[@scottamolinari]

I'd pick the Ducati Monster over the KTM Duke for sure .... but for now, I ride a humble Honda CB1000R.

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Ducati SP. simple. Thanks Bob! 👍😎🇦🇺

[@RaijinTheThunder]

I've seen new base model Tuonos for $14k

[@nazhif1]

Still would rather have the 821 monster or 1200. At least it looks like a monster.

[@linopontes]

KTM 890R with spare money for some extra goodies. The MT-09 SP also looks like a much better buy... But the world is full of people who don't mind paying over the top price for a brand.

[@irfannaqiuddin5598]

No matter how good the Monster SP is, it's still just a luxury upgrade, not like a good upgrade. It definitely is good and Ducati really gives the bike umph into it.

[@enntense]

I always get a kick out of these. Around the world I’m sure there are millions of people who need a bike for daily use doing what ever they need done. I just don’t happen to know a single one of them. In the world I come from all motorcycles are toys, negating any metric of any manner beyond “I liked it and wanted it”. End of story. Also…I must have been out of the Ducati model hype for a while….couldn’t you get one of these with a 155hp 1200 not too long ago?….

[@whylie74]

Styling wise, I'm not a fan of either one, and I get the impression that if they thought they could get away with it the stylist would try and make the wheels as angular as the rest of the bike, the one ray of hope is that while you're riding them you're not really looking at them.

[@Mike_P646]

I'd pick the mt09 sp ,cos I have one🤗

[@hypermotardking]

Lol.. almost same thumbnail as me 😂😂

[@leeprice8949]

Just px my blue 890r duke in for the Ducati monster sp , 890r is awesome but has serious cam issues. Avoid

[@lasserasmussen5522]

Yes but no cruise control... Rather choose a MV Augusta Dragster RR

[@RideSafeNSmart]

Slippery slope the whole 'for just 1500 more, you get...' perhaps that's why I ride a pretty standard (but great imho) mt09 - amazingly versatile and capable, massive smiles and great value. Would I like a monster sp, definitely, can I justify it to myself - nope!

[@smcminn72]

probably no better than my ducati monster 1200r with termi slip on and upmap with 160 plus bhp......best monster ive ridden

[@jantok9217]

Standart Monster or Streetfighter V2. SP version doesnt worth the extra money spent comparing to standart version.

[@Macedonia270]

Obviously a 2kg weight saving will do absolutely nothing, even for the best riders.... Delay breakfast if you want to and save a bunch of money.... This should not be called a Monster, rather a slightly grumpy teddy bear.... Let's hope for a proper Monster further down the line...

[@GOINFINITI]

Some more power would seal the deal actually. Simmple chip-tuning would suffice from the factory and voila

[@panchochilli11]

No, but most people buy Ducatis because of the name and high price, not because they are worth it .

[@RonallRider]

Very cool superbike

[@johnDukemaster]

Well done mr Bob! The steardamper probably weighs something. And maybe the tyres are heavier? Yep, I'd go with the 890 too!

[@michaelbongiorno5132]

The termi slip on is actually heavier than the stock pipe as well, strangely enough.

[@FadilKarim]

That price is tough to swallow. For a couple hundred bucks more, you could just get the MT10SP which wont have as good braking but it has nicer Ohlins electronic suspension and a boatload more power.

[@KiwiMoto72]

yeah, but it’s a Yamaha 😃

[@dansteiner9393]

Thanks for this video! I assumed they’d give us the race Term exhaust, but the slip on… meh. Hopefully we can upgrade to race in states that allow it.

[@davidsweetman2363]

I'd choose the MT09SP

[@Rick1984FL]

~$16,000 for a monster isn’t worth it in my book

[@jasonb4988]

SP .. I see the upgrades as being well worth it .. jmo

[@vwr32jeep]

Not a fan of the new monster without the trellis frame.

[@triumph_lover7461]

I like monster 821..

[@morri03]

The only new Monster I’d consider. I think the paint job hides the ugly tank style well. Of course I’d buy a SF V2 at this money

[@dansteiner9393]

Everyone says that. The SF is a very different bike. Dedicated power maps, no fuel gauge, no cruise control. On paper it should be better, but the Monster is more fun (for my style of riding)

[@morri03]

@@dansteiner9393 I don’t care about cruise control or fuel gauges. I’m sure the monster is a fun bike with a better power delivery for the street. A good choice at the base model but riders who appreciate the upgrades of the SP would still be better off on a Streetfighter

[@dansteiner9393]

@@morri03 you need to go ride both and not base what’s best for anyone off specs.

[@SanjitNagi]

I like the 890r better than Ducati in terms of looks, well overall as well but KTM does not bring it to India.

[@DailyDrivenBikes_1]

It's a bike ducati made from their spare parts bin. And yamaha sold the suspension to ducati.

[@fyorbane]

With that price you are in hyper naked territory. S1000R for a start. If you shop around you can get the mighty Aprilia Tuono 1100 v4 [standard model] which is an incredible bike for the money. Once again Ducati over price their product.

[@yoog]

Given that bikes aren't tested for emissions at an MOT. So when would anyone find your you had the race exhaust on.

[@boxster21]

If you took it abroad as Police check noise etc

[@David-ye1pk]

14K no way for monster Basic monster with other choice cheaper exhaust like arrow and upgrade suspension somewhere else would be my choice if i want monster. Anyway i have KTM 890 R with techpack and cruise control and I don't think is bad looking at all 😉 best looking middle class.

[@99Apit]

Beautiful