2012 Ducati Monster.

                                        2012 Ducati Monster.

The Ducati Monster 696 made our list last year. It's back again, and not only because it's a great deal. This year Ducati is celebrating the iconic Monster's 20th anniversary with special editions of the 696, 796 and 1100 EVO Monster models.
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.
The engine of the Monster 696 is the legendary Desmodue, 696cc, air cooled,  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.
Providing a deep and rich exhaust tone within current noise and emissions regulations is no mean feat, but the Monster 696 definitely provides the L-Twin sound famous of Ducati. Its bold, high-level twin mufflers also make a striking style statement.
The exhaust system on the 696 has one Lambda probe dedicated to each cylinder, enabling precise fuelling for a smoother power delivery as well as complying with current emission regulations.
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.

Specifications:
Power                        58.8 kW (80 hp) @ 9,000 rpm.
Torque                       69 Nm (50.6 lb-ft) @ 7,750 rpm.
Fuel injection             Electronic fuel injection,
                                  45mm throttle body.
Exhaust                     2 aluminum mufflers.
Displacement             696cc.
Bore x Stroke             88 x 57.2mm.
Compression ratio     10.7:1.
Front suspension      43mm upside-down forks.
Front wheel               3-spoke light alloy 3.50 x 17.
Rear tyre                   Pirelli Angel ST 160/60 17”.
Front wheel travel     120mm (4.7in).
Rear wheel travel      148mm (5.8in).
Front brake               2 x 320mm discs, 4-piston radial caliper.
Rear brake                245mm disc, 2-piston caliper.