We still have vivid memories of riding the previous-generation Monster, sadly something we don’t get to do anymore since the Australian distributors no longer seem to offer bikes to the NZ press. Nevertheless, that doesn’t make their wares any less exciting. And the folk from Borgo Panigale have just released what promises to be one of the most out-there Monsters yet, the SP version, sporting MotoGP-inspired paint and dressy items like Ohlins suspension and Brembo Stylema brakes.
There’s also a Termignoni pipe for improved output of both types, Diablo Rosso IV tyres, a steering damper and lithium-ion battery to save yet more weight. Finally, the control electronics are wound back slightly for an even sportier ride, and that includes a new Riding Mode Wet setting.
The latest generation of Monster arrived last year, the most compact and lightest yet. At its heart is the 937cc Testastretta 11° engine, a liquid-cooled four-valve per cylinder V-twin good for 83kW (111hp) at 9250rpm and 94Nm at 6500rpm. It’s the same as that powering the Supersport 950 S, still amongst the best all-round motorcycles available, in my view. Utilising a minimalistic frame similar to that in Panigale, the front aspect fixes directly to the engine heads.
The sporty intent of the Monster SP is evident from the 2022 colours of the Lenovo Desmosedici GP. Moreover, Öhlins NIX30 forks are coloured gold while the saddle is a vivid red hue. Pick the top Monster variant also by the SP logo on the pillion seat cover.
It’s not just the look either, as dynamics improve with better braking performance, reduced load transfers, and greater precision in all riding phases, according to Ducati.
The Öhlins suspension up front is fully adjustable, and there’s increased ground clearance allowing for greater lean angles.
Fitting Brembo Stylema calipers and aluminium flanges for the 320mm front brake discs reduces unsprung weight for added agility, and evidently shortens stopping distances.
Despite adding a steering damper for stability during acceleration and cornering, and a flyscreen, the SP weighs in at 2kg less than the regular Monster (so 186kg wet). Where the rubber meets the road are Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, the company’s top offering for the street.
Finally, all the riding modes, Sport, Touring and Wet, are recalibrated for sportier effect, and launch control is added for track work.
All settings are managed via handlebar controls and are apparent in the 4.3” colour TFT dashboard that features racing graphics similar to those of the flagship Panigale V4.
Given the Monster carries a $20k price tag here, we’d imagine it would be closer to $25k for the SP variant which goes on sale early next year.
Expect a report of this model from us no time soon.
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