The re-styling of a legend
Designed in 1993 by Michel Galuzzi, Ducati’s Monster is something of an icon among Italian sports roadsters.
15 successful years on, it was time for Ducati to bring the Monster up to date, while attempting to retain all the ingredients that have made it what it is.
The overall shape is the same, but the latest design is more compact and more solid, but also more sophisticated. The double headlamp helps give the 696 a very strong identity, as do a number of other carefully crafted details.
A lot of work has been done on the structure of the bike. The trellis frame, copied from Moto GP bikes, is combined with horizontal alloy bars. The inverted fork brings the precision required on this kind of bike. There are double disc brakes at the front, with Brembo callipers. The radius arm is encased in an alloy housing, linked to an adjustable shock absorber mounted to the left of centre.
The engine is still 695cc, but the old twin cylinder unit has a new lease of life. The exhaust is under the seat, as is the fashion for this kind of bike. It makes for a superb sound. The dash is now entirely digital, offering up plenty of information, although it takes a little while to get to grips with working it all from the left-hand controller. The handlebar is also new, and helps improve the riding position. The small windshield provides a little bit of protection from the elements, as well as a much-appreciated racing touch. The rear of the bike is well designed and features an LED light that is visible from afar.
Testing a new Ducati in the rain?...Far from ideal!
This all too short test should have provided an opportunity to experience the high quality of workmanship on this bike.
The 696 is a successful evolution of this popular bike. It’s a job well done by the designers from Bologna.
At 80 horsepower, the power is manageable while still being enjoyable. The engine has a wide range and responds well to all requests.
The suspension is set quite firm, but remains comfortable, which is helped by a riding position that is much less radical than on previous versions. 
The brakes are even better than usual for a Ducati and the whole package is more than enough to bring the Monster 696 bang up to date.
At 8000 euros, there is no doubt that the latest version of the Monster will encourage a lot more riders to enter the world of Ducati…
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