Ducati Monster 796 review [ashonbikes.com]

[UFO]

Ducati offers up another midsized Monster, this time borrowing the lump from the Hypermotard 796.



The detailing is very good, with older Monsters’ fussy details cleaned up, the same black finish used on a variety of components from footrest hangers to oil cooler shroud, and the Ducati trademark trellis frame finished in red. It looks great... until you combine it with some of the many colour options available. It needs to be remembered first that the Monster was originally Ducati’s unique take on the cruiser market – in the early 1990s the Italian factory wanted a slice of this lucrative and growing sector, but without taking the default route of copying Harley-Davidson. So the Monster was created by designed Angel Galluzzi to boss Massimo Bordi’s brief, and without anyone noticing became an alternative cruiser with a special Ducati flavour.

Read the entire review here:  http://ashonbikes.com/content/ducati-monster-796-review

[falconati]

I like purple, but doesn't this just look awkward as hell?



I think they need to find a different flavor of the color..

[Rincewind]

Ducati offers up another midsized Monster, this time borrowing the lump from the Hypermotard 796.

Even with all the fancy new color-options on the Monster, this black with red frame is probably my favorite.  SEXY.  Monsters are one of my favorite bikes, but that 3.3 gallon size on the gas tank just plain sucks.  The article compares the Monsters to cruisers in fuel tank size, but I think that's about where the similarities end.  I hadn't heard previously that the Monsters were specifically to take on the cruiser market.

[Rabidsnipe]

Pretty sure those are English gallons or something. The US Ducati website lists the capacity as 3.8 for standard and 3.6 for ABS. I'm also going to guess you'll get better mileage on the Monster than Ash. So probably figure 130-150 miles per tank. That isn't too bad for a bike like that.

It is interesting comparing the spec sheets of the Hyper 796 side-by-side with the Monster 796. Pretty much on all acounts the Monster wins except for a few pounds and some front suspension travel. Plus you gain huge aftermarket support, much better luggage accomodations, and an ABS option.  The 696 was an also ran compared to the 796 Hyper. Throw in that SSSA and a better version of the motor and suddenly it is much more appealing.  

[Rincewind]

Pretty sure those are English gallons or something. The US Ducati website lists the capacity as 3.8 for standard and 3.6 for ABS. I'm also going to guess you'll get better mileage on the Monster than Ash. So probably figure 130-150 miles per tank. That isn't too bad for a bike like that.

Doh!  You're right I should have known that.    It's the Hypermotards that have the small 3.3 gallon (US) tank.

Yeah 150-miles is a reasonable range, I agree.  I would probably go with the Monster 796 over the Hypermotard for the sportier seating and better tank-range.  IIRC they have some good 2-up accessories coming out for the Monsters, too.

Btw - I got to ride a Monster 1100S just the other weekend and loved it - very character-rich with good brutish power.  I hit the rev-limiter quite a few times, but I'm used to shifting pretty high.  I wouldn't trade my Striple on one, mind you - but the Monsters are great bikes nonetheless.

[Rabidsnipe]

I'd still have a tough time buying a Ducati as a primary bike.  It just wouldn't seem right putting 60 miles/day on a bike like that.

But the 796 Monster package is very appealing.  The Hyper 796 demo I got made me realize that a twin is in my future but I am unable to decide which one.

[Rincewind]

I'd still have a tough time buying a Ducati as a primary bike.  It just wouldn't seem right putting 60 miles/day on a bike like that.

But the 796 Monster package is very appealing.  The Hyper 796 demo I got made me realize that a twin is in my future but I am unable to decide which one.

Once the Monsters go to 15k valve check intervals (one local dealer anticipates they will get there, eventually), the bike will be more practical for lots of miles.

But having tested the Monster 1100S and MTS1200 (also tested the Stelvio on that day), I confirmed that I'm a Triple kind of guy.  The twins are fun and have high novelty value, but the smoothness and wide powerband of the Triple is more pleasant as a street bike for me.

[spaceman]

I'm seriously considering this bike. I've been looking for a fun, 800cc bike, and this may be it. I actually bring my 650R to the local Ducati shop for service, so I'm very happy with people over there. I'm certainly going to give it a test ride, and just hope that it is more comfortable than the 696.

[Rabidsnipe]

I agree about the smoothness.  I came away with two unexpected impressions demoing the street triple: very smooth motor and very smooth airflow.  If only it came with SSSA.  I felt much more vibration on the Tiger than on the Striple.

And the vibrations were something I noticed riding the Hyper 796 as well.  At first it felt wrong.  After reading around it seems that is a characteristic of the brand and not an "issue".

[Rincewind]

I agree about the smoothness.  I came away with two unexpected impressions demoing the street triple: very smooth motor and very smooth airflow.  If only it came with SSSA.  I felt much more vibration on the Tiger than on the Striple.

And the vibrations were something I noticed riding the Hyper 796 as well.  At first it felt wrong.  After reading around it seems that is a characteristic of the brand and not an "issue".

Yes it's a "character" thing, I'm pretty sure.  It doesn't help the view in the rearview mirrors.  

IMO twins usually "blat" and have power that is obvious and immediate, whereas the 675 triple "hones" and the power must be unlocked progressively.  It's a personal preference as to which is better, whether you like working for power or want it hand-delivered.  

[falconati]

I'd still have a tough time buying a Ducati as a primary bike.  It just wouldn't seem right putting 60 miles/day on a bike like that.

I have no problem with it  

I put on about 6k miles each year (so, that's a valve check service each year - that's the 'not so cute' part).  I put on 2k miles last week, too

[Rabidsnipe]

Yeah, but you've got two bikes. It is a little different when you can share the love.

[falconati]

I'm talking about 6k just on the Duc  

[dorklord]

I'm talking about 6k just on the Duc  

But you've got your other bike to ride when the Duc is getting maintenance...

If you only have 1 bike, then maintenance time = no ride time.

[falconati]

Oh, I understand now  

Honestly, my shop only takes 1-2 days with my bike.  They do an incredible job at budgeting their workload and scheduling appropriately.

[Paul Barnard]

I like purple, but doesn't this just look awkward as hell?



I think they need to find a different flavor of the color..

Is that a fucking sliding board or a seat?

[spaceman]

Can anyone comment on the plastic gas tanks on the Monster? I've heard a number of complaints concerning expansion causing problems with the fuel pump seal. Just curious as the 796 uses a plastic tank.

[Mr Sunshine]

Can anyone comment on the plastic gas tanks on the Monster? I've heard a number of complaints concerning expansion causing problems with the fuel pump seal. Just curious as the 796 uses a plastic tank.

That's been resolved.

[CAT3]

I'd still have a tough time buying a Ducati as a primary bike.  It just wouldn't seem right putting 60 miles/day on a bike like that.

But the 796 Monster package is very appealing.  The Hyper 796 demo I got made me realize that a twin is in my future but I am unable to decide which one.

I don't have any issues logging 75mi each day I commute to work.  I put on over 3,400miles in the first two months I owned my Ducati, and after one year (was deployed one year) I've got over 8,000miles.  No reliability issues, and maintenance "down" time for services have not exceeded an entire day, I drop it off in the morning and its ready that afternoon or before they close.  They have even had a guy wait after closing with the bike when I was running late.  

My bike, 2008 Ducati 1098, and yes, its my only bike.  My wingman has a M696 and after riding that Duc, I can only think the M796 or M1100 would be just fabulous.  The handling is nimble and accurate, weight isn't even felt its so well placed and balanced.  All-day comfort and fun, wrapped in a sexy Italian trellis design, win-win.  

[spaceman]

As I said earlier in the thread, I am really interested in this bike, but would like input from any Monster owners here:

Is this a practical bike for a 45 yo 6'1" 228 lb man? I really don't ride enough to justify a Multi. All my trips are less than 300 miles/day. Very little city driving, mostly foothills, mountain roads, country roads in northern New England. Of course I'll try one when they arrive here, but would like some input.

other bikes I'm considering:

2010 Kawi Versys
2010 Shiver
possibly StreetTriple

[Rincewind]

As I said earlier in the thread, I am really interested in this bike, but would like input from any Monster owners here:

Is this a practical bike for a 45 yo 6'1" 228 lb man? I really don't ride enough to justify a Multi. All my trips are less than 300 miles/day. Very little city driving, mostly foothills, mountain roads, country roads in northern New England. Of course I'll try one when they arrive here, but would like some input.

other bikes I'm considering:

2010 Kawi Versys
2010 Shiver
possibly StreetTriple

Nice list there!  I don't know that there are many Monster owners here to answer your questions.  There is a ducatimonster.org forum that would be a better resource in that regard.

I'm about your same size and I'm fine with the Street Triple R.  I believe the others would be fine as well though I have not ridden them to tell for sure.  I did ride the Monster 1100S and Multistrada 1200 - fantastic bikes particularly that MTS.

[spaceman]

Nice list there!  I don't know that there are many Monster owners here to answer your questions.  There is a ducatimonster.org forum that would be a better resource in that regard.

I'm about your same size and I'm fine with the Street Triple R.  I believe the others would be fine as well though I have not ridden them to tell for sure.  I did ride the Monster 1100S and Multistrada 1200 - fantastic bikes particularly that MTS.

Thanks for the link....ahh...decisions, decisions!

[Rabidsnipe]

CAT3, maintenance and reliability aren't my big concerns. Of more concernis that a Ducati almost seems more like a play bike, a show-off bike, the bike you keep in your garage for Friday nights or weekend blasts. It isn't the kind of bike I would want to thrash driving interstate all the time. They make cheaper less inspiring bikes for that kind of mission.

[Dave R]

CAT3, maintenance and reliability aren't my big concerns. Of more concernis that a Ducati almost seems more like a play bike, a show-off bike, the bike you keep in your garage for Friday nights or weekend blasts. It isn't the kind of bike I would want to thrash driving interstate all the time. They make cheaper less inspiring bikes for that kind of mission.

drive a car if all you seek is transportation...  ride a motorcycle if you seek inspiration!  
with that thought why would you want to ride a bike that doesn't inspire you?   We have plenty of customers that rack up the miles on semi boring routes riding their Ducati's but when they have that little bit extra time on the commute I can promise you they seek out alternate more inspiring routes to work or home  

[Mr Sunshine]

CAT3, maintenance and reliability aren't my big concerns. Of more concernis that a Ducati almost seems more like a play bike, a show-off bike, the bike you keep in your garage for Friday nights or weekend blasts. It isn't the kind of bike I would want to thrash driving interstate all the time. They make cheaper less inspiring bikes for that kind of mission.

A Ducati a play bike?  

You may only feel that way because it does seem a lot of Ducati owners only ride them when its nice outside..but I can tell you this Ducati owner (damn I love the sound of tht) rides his all the time....except snow unless I get caught out.  That's only a safety issue.

[Rabidsnipe]

Yes, yes, yes.  I know.  Buy and ride the bike you love.  My goal/intention is to have a two bike garage: a functional/utility bike (V-Strom, NT700, Burgman, et al) and a play bike (currently the FZ1).  Seeing as how I already have the play bike, the functional bike will be the next purchase.

[Mr Sunshine]

How can you have a street bike as a play bike?  Too many damn rules!

Track bike or a dirt bike is a good play bike.  Everything else is a ticket and a meeting with Bubba!

[Rabidsnipe]

How can you have a street bike as a play bike?  Too many damn rules!

Track bike or a dirt bike is a good play bike.  Everything else is a ticket and a meeting with Bubba!

You can still have fun on the street at legal speeds. You just have to be in the right places.

[ericz]

Bone fide Monster 696 owner here.   If I had know this bike was on the way last Aug. I would have held off and thrown the $$ in a CD for the year and then bought the 796 without hesitation.    

I've ridden the new Monster 796 and its WAY more bike than my 696.   Its got enough draw on the engine like the 1100 that 2nd gear in town does it all.    The taller raisers holding the bars make the position even more comfortable and I'm a late boomer.   Even the stock exhaust sounds better.    In the want not need department the single side swing arm is sexxxxxxy!!    

Its still got to be red on red for me.  

[Rabidsnipe]

I too was won over by the SSSA. The 696 is meh but the 796 is

[kendenton]

Gawd that's a pretty paint job.  Looks too tiny though.

[falconati]

I'm surprised by the people who keep saying that a Duc can't be ridden daily  

Life is too short to worry about the valve intervals  

[kendenton]

I'm surprised by the people who keep saying that a Duc can't be ridden daily  

Life is too short to worry about the valve intervals  

I agree.  35,000 miles so far on my 6k-valve-service-interval Multi.

[spaceman]

Gawd that's a pretty paint job.  Looks too tiny though.

Agreed. I was very interested in this bike, but I'm 6'1" and pushing 230, so it's looking more like a Versys or Vstrom for me. I just don't want to look like a big monkey humping a football.  

[Rabidsnipe]

I'm surprised by the people who keep saying that a Duc can't be ridden daily  

Life is too short to worry about the valve intervals  

You, sir, are not helping

[KLRchickie]

Gawd that's a pretty paint job.  Looks too tiny though.

How tall of a man did they put on that Monster?

ZED is 6'2" tall & he looks like a grasshopper on my Monster S2R1000, but he does not look *that* big on the bike!  (He likes to take it for a spin now & then as it handles like a Ducati, but he tends to come back with a cramp )  I know they redesigned the new Monsters (they don't fit me now ), but I didn't think they shrunk them....

[Rabidsnipe]

Gawd that's a pretty paint job.  Looks too tiny though.

I think my favorite colors are that one and the black w/ red frame.

[jsanford]

What!  That's a 695 color pattern!

[jsanford]

Yes, yes, yes.  I know.  Buy and ride the bike you love.  My goal/intention is to have a two bike garage: a functional/utility bike (V-Strom, NT700, Burgman, et al) and a play bike (currently the FZ1).  Seeing as how I already have the play bike, the functional bike will be the next purchase.

Get a Duc and the FZ1 will become the utility bike.

Seriously--Ducati has expanded their ABS options which makes them more practical than ever.

[Rabidsnipe]

Get a Duc and the FZ1 will become the utility bike.

Seriously--Ducati has expanded their ABS options which makes them more practical than ever.

I'd be concerned the bikes would be too similar.  If I bought a Monster, I really don't think I'd have that much use for the FZ1.  I think I'd rather pick up something like a Bonnie or Sporty and have a bike that is more different than the Monster would be.

[Rincewind]

What!  That's a 695 color pattern!

DRRRROOOOOOOLLLLLL.  

I'd be concerned the bikes would be too similar.  If I bought a Monster, I really don't think I'd have that much use for the FZ1.  I think I'd rather pick up something like a Bonnie or Sporty and have a bike that is more different than the Monster would be.

The Bonnie & Sportster are both much heavier and cruiser-like than the Monster.   For me the Monster would win the "grin" category easily!

[Jeff]

Agreed. I was very interested in this bike, but I'm 6'1" and pushing 230, so it's looking more like a Versys or Vstrom for me. I just don't want to look like a big monkey humping a football.  

Do you really care what you look like? If you're comfortable and you like the bike, why should you care if other people think you look too big for it? It has plenty of power to move you around. Ride what you want regardless of what other people think.

Now, if you rode one and a lack of comfort because of your size prevented you from enjoying it - that's a different story.

[Rincewind]

[falconati]

whoa.

[Rincewind]

I liked his comparison of a wheelie to a rearing horse to an erection.