The superbike-derived, sporty Ducati Monster now comes in SP form, with the Italian bike maker adding a series of high-quality components to make the bike even lighter, more effective and fun. It now looks more aggressive than before too.
The heart of the Monster is the Testastretta 11-degree engine, a liquid-cooled 4-valve twin offering 82kW and desmodromic distribution. Its front frame, inspired by the Panigale V4, is extremely light and compact, made of aluminium, and fixed directly to the engine heads.
The sporty nature of the Monster SP can be seen too, thanks to its livery that matches the colours of the 2022 Ducati Lenovo Team’s Desmosedici GP bike. A golden anodized Öhlins NIX30 fork and Termignoni-approved silencer are standard.
A red saddle, which is integrated with the tail in the side view also features, and the Monster SP logo can be found on the passenger seat cover, with the Ducati logo on the fuel tank, this time larger and inspired by the Panigale V4 graphics.
The Monster SP offers better braking performance, reduced load transfers, an increased ability to close trajectories and greater precision in all riding phases. The fully adjustable Öhlins suspension is 0.6kg lighter than the one used on the Monster and Monster+.
The result is an increase in road feel, as well as ground clearance, and consequently lean angle. It also features a sportier calibration, which improves dynamic capabilities when riding on mixed roads. Likewise, it works a treat on the track.
The braking system sports Brembo Stylema callipers and aluminium flanges for the 320mm front brake discs, giving the Monster SP improved stopping power, while also making the bike more agile by reducing inertia at the front.
A lithium-ion battery reduces weight by a further 2kg as well, again enhancing its rideability. Likewise, the Monster SP is further enhanced by a steering damper which
improves stability under acceleration and cornering.
Shod with Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, this Ducati also scores a recalibration of its riding modes, and therefore its electronic controls, all designed to make the most of the changes to the chassis, and the arrival of the new Riding Mode Wet.
Designed to offer greater safety on wet surfaces, it provides a key safety feature, joining ABS cornering, traction and wheelie control. Each of these is adjustable to various levels of intervention.
The sporty character of the new Monster SP is also underlined by launch control, which ensures lightning-fast starts, and improved versions of Sport and Touring mode. Everything is easily managed through handlebar controls and the 4.3-inch colour TFT dashboard too.
The latter even features racing graphics that echo those of the Panigale V4. The 2023 Ducati Monster SP is set to arrive in showrooms in January. To find out more, contact your local Ducati dealer.
