Monster moves

Of all the bike manufacturers currently selling big bikes in India, Ducati certainly seems to be bullish about its prospects. With more outlets expected in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai and Kolkata, the Italian bike maker is looking at a packed Indian schedule. The launch dates of its two groundbreaking bikes — the Multistrada 1200 and the new Monster 796 — are fast approaching, with bike aficionados looking forward to them with great anticipation.

At first glance, it’s easy to recognise the 796 as a member of the Monster family. Showing off that well-known brawny stance and smart detailing that the Italians take so much pride in, the 796’s front is characterised by a chic, low-set triple parabola headlight. Capped by a dinky bikini fairing, its instruments are a clear, all-digital affair that include a tachometer, speedometer, clock, maintenance warning and low oil-pressure readouts. This also doubles up as the control panel for Ducati’s Data Analyser (DDA) or data acquisition kit that can be fitted on as an accessory.

The 796’s muscular 15-litre fuel tank is sculpted to perfection, smartly bisected by a black strip that runs the length of the tank. Its trellis frame — a Ducati trademark — finished in red, sits exposed on this bike as a visual treat. A wide riding saddle leads up to the Duke’s slender tail fairing and LED brake warning lights, sitting atop meaty, twin underseat exhausts.

Ducati has confirmed the 796 as an addition to the Monster family and not as a replacement for the 696cc Monster. Powered by an 803cc engine, the 796 uses a 2-1-2 exhaust system to expel its waste gases. A catalytic converter helps it meet Euro 3 (BS III) emission norms. Using a six-speed gearbox, the 796 also features a slipper clutch to allow riders to downshift safely from high speed.

The Monster 796 deploys a steel trellis frame and an aluminium rear sub-frame. Up front, the bike uses chunky upside-down Showa forks, while its single rear shock absorber is allied to a single-sided alloy swingarm and can be adjusted for rebound and compression damping. Braking is via dual discs in front and a rear disc brake, with optional ABS.

The Monster 796 will be available in Ducati traditional red, as well as white and black. Buyers also have the option of choosing from 10 other shades in Ducati’s Monster Art range.

Ducati has confirmed that the Monster 796 goes on sale across India by September 2010. It’ll be interesting to see whether the premium Italian bike manufacturer is able to price the 796 to compete with its other big bike rivals such as Honda’s supremely practical CB1000R. With its heady blend of sizzling Italian style and strong performance, the Monster 796 should make a sensible big bike for India.

Spec Check

Ducati Monster 796

Price: Rs 12 lakh (est)

L/W/H: 2114/784/1079mm

Engine: L-twin, air and oil-cooled, four-stroke

Power: 87bhp at 8250rpm

Torque: 8kgm at 6250rpm

Gearbox: 6-speed, 1-down, 5-up

Suspension (F/R): Upside-down forks/ adjustable monoshock, single-side swingarm


The Personal Telegraph