More than two decades on from the Monster’s first unveiling, Ducati now introduce the iconic model’s latest generation with the 2014 Monster 1200 and 1200 S powered by the formidable, Superbike-derived 1198 Testastretta 11° DS engine. The brand new flagship of the family presents an entirely new chassis and muscular styling designed with premium components fully integrated with Ducati’s latest technologies.

Evoking the exciting memories of past models such as the powerhouse S4R and S4RS, the 2014 Monster 1200 also boasts an exclusive S model with 145hp and a ride-enhancing 92ft-lb of high-accelerating torque, wrapped beautifully in a spec-impressive chassis that tips the scales at 182kg (401lb) dry weight.

The 2014 Monster 1200 and Monster 1200 S use next generation technologies to create an enhanced rider/motorcycle relationship, delivering a high-adrenaline experience while constantly reassuring with the feeling of complete control and ergonomic integration.

While the Monster 1200 is presented in Ducati red with red frame and black wheels, the Monster 1200 S offers Ducati red with red frame and glossy black wheels in addition to the striking scheme of white with bronze-coloured frame and glossy black wheels.

The new Monster 1200 and Monster 1200 S present the next generation of this famous family, combining genuine Monster tradition with Ducati’s latest technical solutions to engineer a modern and mature masterpiece. From the super-smooth refinement of the second generation Testastretta 11° DS engine and its Panigale-style direct attachment to the frame, to stunning and industry benchmark TFT instrumentation and best-ever ergonomics, this iconic motorcycle now mixes authentic sport character with lifestyle sophistication.

The new Monster returns to its outrageous roots with the Desmo, liquid-cooled, 4-valves-per-cylinder, 1198cc Testastretta 11° DS motor. Underlining its naked motorcycle passion with the mantra: “it’s all about the engine”, the new generation models present the most usable, excitement-fuelled power ever delivered by a Monster.

The second generation Testastretta 11° Dual Spark engine, which now becomes a fully-stressed chassis member with Panigale-style attachment points for the Trellis frame, uses a number of important and highly effective features to deliver 135hp @ 8,750rpm and for the Monster 1200 S, an extra 10hp to 145hp @ 8,750rpm. Ducati have dialled-in an impressive torque curve to further enhance riding pleasure, generating a peak torque of 87lb-ft (12kgm) for the Monster 1200 and 92lb-ft (12.7kgm) for the 1200 S version, both values @ 7,250rpm.

While maintaining the vitally important aspects of the original Monster concept, the new generation chassis introduces Ducati’s very latest design techniques. The model’s signature Trellis frame still features predominantly in the overall styling, while its attachment points move directly to the new engine’s cylinder heads, a method pioneered on the innovative Panigale Superbike. This new and compact frame design combined with its large diameter steel tubing has effectively doubled its torsional stiffness compared to previous models.

The new Monster rolls on Panigale-style 10-spoke light alloy wheels with rim sizes of 3.50 x 17 for the front and 6.00 x 17 on the rear, while the Monster S sports a new style triple Y-shape spoke design with extra machining. Both models use Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tyres in 120/70 for the front and impressive 190/55 for the rear, constructed in bi-Compound to combine long lasting mileage with excellent full-lean grip. The high quality tyres use Pirelli’s Enhanced Patch Technology (EPT) to optimise contact patch for improved grip and Functional Groove Design (FGD) to enhance their wet weather characteristics.

Included as an integral part of the Ducati Safety Pack (DSP), both the Monster and Monster S are equipped with the Bosch ABS 9MP controlled Brembo braking system, with integrated pressure sensor, as standard equipment, an impressive combination of state-of-the-art security and proven performance.

The 3-level system provides shorter stopping distances with enhanced stability appropriate for the motorcycle’s environment by being fully integrated with the Riding Modes. While level-1 of the system enables a sport-oriented ABS intervention with no rear lift-up prevention, level-2 delivers the same intervention with rear lift-up prevention activated. Level-3 provides maximum braking stability and rear lift-up prevention.