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2014 Ducati Monster 696

2014 Ducati Monster 696

2014 Ducati Monster 696

2014 Ducati Monster 696

2014 Ducati Monster 696

2014 Ducati Monster 696 Review

The 2014 Ducati Monster 696 on Totalmotorcycle.com

Everyday usability…

With its thin waistline and wide handlebars, the Monster 696 provides unrivalled ergonomics, striking a carefully designed balance between performance and everyday usability that will appeal to a wide range of riders. Sport-derived chassis technology and the proven power and flexibility of the legendary Ducati L-Twin engine, make the Monster 696 as comfortable in city traffic as on the open road. Enhancing the “less-is-more” philosophy that has made the Monster a global legend, the Monster 696 continues to redefine expectations. Every finely engineered element of the chassis and engine is on display, allowing its true beauty to be showcased for all to see.

Naked essentiality

When you choose to ride the Monster, you are not just choosing a bike, but an entire lifestyle. A desire to experience the exhilaration of naked power from an iconic motorcycle

Riding the 696

The riding position of the Monster 696 has been specifically designed to put the rider firmly in control. With its low 770mm (30.3in) seat height, easy-to-reach handlebars and user-friendly adjustable levers, every rider will find it easy to master.

The beautifully sculpted fuel tank cover allows maximum comfort and control and the narrowing of the “waist“ area of the 696 has the same effect as lowering the seat height, making it easier to get both feet flat on the ground. Careful attention to every detail has led to a substantial weight saving, making the Monster 696 the lightest in its class at an impressive 161kg (355lb) (dry weight).

Passenger comfort and safety are also carefully considered, with neat, under-seat grab handles moulded into the seat unit maximising pillion security without detracting from the legendary Monster 696 styling, or external grab-handles available as an accessory from Ducati Performance.

696 power trip

The 696 engine produces 80hp (59kW) and 50.6lb-ft (7kgm) of torque ensuring a smooth and powerful delivery for a relaxed and enjoyable ride as well competitive and owner-friendly service intervals of 7,500 miles (12,000 kilometres).

The highly efficient, lightweight Desmodromic engine uses a bore and stroke of 88×57.2mm and, like the 796, features an advanced APTC ‘wet’ clutch. With a ‘slipper’ type action that prevents destabilising of the rear-end under aggressive down-shifting, the APTC clutch also gives the extra benefit of a super-light feel at the lever, a great benefit in stop-start city traffic. The oil-bath clutch represents a power-enhancing weight reduction over the ‘dry’ system as well as having a considerably quieter operation.

Providing a deep and rich exhaust tone within current regulations is no mean feat, but the Monster 696 definitely provides Ducati’s famous L-Twin sound. Its bold, high-level twin mufflers not only make a striking style statement, but also provide a healthy increase in power and torque and ideal positioning for two lambda exhaust gas sensors, crucial for the optimisation of fuelling and emissions.

696 chassis

Outstanding handling and control is provided by 43mm Kayaba forks offering 120mm (4.7in) of finely controlled travel. At the rear, a progressive Sachs monoshock unit provides adjustability in both spring preload and damping.

Lightweight 3-spoke aluminium alloy wheels increase agility and reduce rider effort and use 120/60ZR front and 160/60ZR rear Pirelli

 

Monster instinct

Twenty-one years on from the Monster’s first unveiling, Ducati now introduce the iconic model’s latest generation with the 2014 Monster 1200 and 1200 S powered by the formidable, Superbike-derived 1198 Testastretta 11° DS engine. The brand new flagship of the family presents an entirely new chassis and muscular styling designed with premium components fully integrated with Ducati’s latest technologies.

Evoking the exciting memories of past models such as the powerhouse S4R and S4RS, the 2014 Monster 1200 also boasts an exclusive S model with 145hp and a ride-enhancing 92ft-lb of high-accelerating torque, wrapped beautifully in a spec-impressive chassis that tips the scales at 182kg (401lb) dry weight.

High-spec brakes, suspension, single-sided swingarm and lightweight wheels combine with Ducati’s best-yet ergonomics to offer the Italian manufacturer’s most attractive Monster ever. Super comfortable and introducing an innovative adjustable seat height, the model also combines 8-level traction control, 3-level ABS and 3-level Ride-by-Wire into Ducati’s user-friendly, press-button Riding Modes.

The 2014 Monster 1200 and Monster 1200 S use next generation technologies to create an enhanced rider/motorcycle relationship, delivering a high-adrenaline experience while constantly reassuring with the feeling of complete control and ergonomic integration.
Standing alongside the new flagship models, the entry-level 696 and premium mid-range 796 Monsters continue to provide a desirable way to enter the world of Ducati, with stylish Trellis frames, excellent chassis components and torque-laden, Desmodromic engines giving that unmistakable sound and character.

While the Monster 1200 is presented in Ducati red with red frame and black wheels, the Monster 1200 S offers Ducati red with red frame and glossy black wheels in addition to the striking scheme of white with bronze-coloured frame and glossy black wheels.

Both the 696 and 796 continue in traditional Ducati red with red frames and black wheels, while the 696 also offers dark stealth or stone white with matte black frames and black wheels. The 796 presents diamond black silk with contrasting red frame and black wheels as its additional colour choice.

 

 

 

 

 

 

2014 Ducati Monster 696 Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

MONSTER 696 & 796 FAMILY FEATURES

Monster frames

An immensely strong but light tubular steel Trellis frame with aluminium rear sub-frame is the visual and structural backbone of the 696 and 796 Monsters. Delivering rigidity with minimal mass, the frame design is pure Ducati in its ingenuity and simplicity and enables a useful 64 degrees of lock-to-lock steering travel. The lightweight aluminium sub-frame maintains visual continuity with the footrest hangers and swingarm, and is designed to accept a passenger-friendly grab-rail kit available as an accessory from Ducati Performance. The kit further enhances passenger ride comfort without compromising the Monster’s stylish lines.

 

Monster instrumentation

Looking clean and minimalist in true Monster style, the brightly illuminated display provides all essential data by default, and even more by scrolling with the left-hand switchgear. Data includes speed, revs, time, scheduled maintenance, oil temperature, ABS status and battery voltage, while warning lights illuminate for oil pressure, fuel reserve, turn indicators, high beam and neutral selection. In addition, the instrumentation presents a reserve fuel trip, immobiliser status and automatic light-off function after 60 seconds with the key on as well as a memory to store lap times recorded by using the high-beam flash button as a stopwatch.

 

 

2014 Ducati Monster 696 Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

Less is Monster

The ‘less-is-more’ philosophy behind all Monsters underlines Ducati’s never-ending pursuit of genuinely compact, high performance motorcycles, but these new models have succeeded in being even more ‘pared down’ than their predecessors. Every single component has been redesigned and redeveloped so now more than ever, form follows function. With any details detracting from the Monster concept being eliminated, ‘less-is-more’ also means ‘less-is-Monster’. Less weight plus more torque equals fun-filled riding.

Monster Story

In 1992 Ducati unveiled a new prototype that was to become an icon. Ducati’s creation awed the crowds and the world’s media of that year’s Cologne International Motorcycle show. The 900 Monster was a motorcycle that created a truly new niche – dramatically styled, minimalist in stature yet bristling with innovative engineering solutions. The Monster’s radical styling has also provided the inspiration for an entire after-market sector specialising in hot-rod parts for this legendary machine. For this reason, rarely do you see two Monsters the same. This radical and refreshing design departure also influenced other manufacturers but, as the old adage states: imitation is the highest form of flattery… The Monster is characterised by a long and successful history, by its introduction during the years of numerous cylinders and uncountable colour options, but above all by a constant technological evolution that this year brings us to the birth of the last version: the Monster 1100EVO, “The Ultimate Monster”.

Desmodue

The engine of the Monster 696 is the legendary Desmodue, 696cc, air cooled, L-Twin engine whose 80hp gives it that unmistakable Ducati sound. Developed for an incredibly flexible power delivery, the 696 Desmodromic engine provides enough torque to exit the most challenging of corners. The impressive torque, typical of the Ducati L-Twin engines, will excite with every twist of the throttle.

APTC clutch

The APTC ‘wet’ clutch gives a ‘slipper’ type action that prevents destabilizing of the rear-end under aggressive down-shifting and also gives the extra benefit of a super-light feel at the lever, a great benefit in stop-start city traffic or during longer journeys. The 21-plate oil-bath clutch (11 friction and 10 steel) represents a power-enhancing weight reduction over the ‘dry’ system as well as having a quieter operation and requiring less maintenance.

Lightweight crankcases

The new crankcases hug the gearbox internals much closer to create a smaller and more compact outer profile and achieve considerable weight savings over previous cases.

Power & torque curves

The Monster 696 produces 80hp (58,8kW) @ 9000rpm and 50,6 lb-ft (7,0kgm) of torque @ 7750rpm

Exhaust system

The 2-1-2 catalytic exhaust system uses an efficient pre-silencer configuration with twin lambda probes providing finer fuel mapping and Euro 3 conformity. The system’s lightweight and compact design is achieved by using 1mm thick tubing and terminates in Ducati’s trademark twin under-seat, black exhaust mufflers, stylishly contrasted with great looking aluminium end caps.

Monster Trellis

An immensely strong but light tubular steel Trellis frame with aluminium rear sub-frame is the visual and structural backbone of the Monster. Delivering unparalleled rigidity with minimal mass, the chassis design is pure Ducati in its ingenuity and simplicity. A separate, all aluminium sub-frame saves weight and adds a pleasing continuity with the aluminium footrest hangers and matte finished swingarm.

Lightweight construction

Every carefully selected component of the Monster 696 has a net benefit to the overall light weight of the machine. The dry weight of 161kgs (355lb) has dramatic effects on not just manoeuvrability and ease of use, but also by contributing directly to increased performance, braking and acceleration.

Seat height

The riding position of the Monster 696 has been specifically designed to put you firmly in control. The seat height is only 770mm (30.3in), making it easier for get both feet firmly planted on the ground.

Aluminium swingarm

The GP-style swingarm is chill-cast using aluminium in its most noble form. Gravity cast and heat treated, the component achieves the best mechanical characteristics as well as reduced final weight for improved handling.

Ergonomics

The heavily tapered and deeply sculpted fuel tank cover allows maximum comfort and control. The narrowing of the bike’s ‘waist’ has the same effect as lowering the seat height, making it easier for more riders to get both feet flat on the floor. The steering-lock is vastly improved with a useful 64 degrees of lock-to-lock steering travel. Incredible attention to detail has gone into maximising the effective steering-lock.

Brembo brakes

The latest in Brembo braking hardware delivers exceptional braking power front and rear to improve rider safety. At the front, 320mm floating discs are gripped by four-piston, radially mounted callipers, while a 245mm floating rear disc works in combination with a twin-piston calliper. This powerful braking set-up offers unrivalled feel and feedback making the 696 safer across a broader spectrum of riding abilities.

Lightweight 3-spoke wheels

Lightweight 3-spoke aluminium alloy wheels increase agility and reduce rider effort. The 3.50×17 front wheel wears a 120/60ZR tyre while the 4.50×17 rear wheel runs 160/60ZR rubber. By resisting the temptation to over-tyre the 696 for styling’s sake, the end result is light, predictable and confidence inspiring steering qualities at a wide range of speeds with truly outstanding stability.

Sachs rear suspension

At the rear, a Sachs monoshock unit with progressive linkage provide a wide spectrum of both spring and damping settings.

Headlight

The triple-parabola headlight on the Monster utilises the latest optical technology and advanced construction techniques to provide an incredibly compact lighting package. In spite of its compact size, the headlight throws a broad and deep beam to provide excellent visibility and make night riding safer. Viewed from the side, its discrete silhouette mimics the radical shape of the fuel tank.

Instrumentation

Visually simple digital instrumentation provides an array of data on command or, at a glance, just speed and revs. Information available at your fingertip include: scheduled maintenance warning, oil temperature, trip odometer, lap time, fuel reserve, warning light for low oil pressure, turn signals, over-rev warning, immobilizer and neutral warning light.

LED taillight

An LED rear light unit satisfies the minimalist, weight-saving design ethos found throughout the Monster 696. The specially designed strip of LED are enhanced by a special diffuser lens to deliver outstanding light clarity and incredible longevity.

For the Monster 1100EVO, even the license plate light uses LED technology.

DDA ready

The instrument display also doubles as a control panel for the activation of the Ducati Data Analyser (DDA) system, which is available as an accessory from Ducati Performance. The bike has been built ‘system-ready’ for the data acquisition kit, which consists of special DDA software and a memory key that slots into a plug under the seat. The same plug also doubles as the connection for a handy new battery charger available as an accessory from Ducati Performance.

Adjustable levers

The new user-friendly brake and clutch with 4-point adjustable levers provide easy-to-reach control for all hand sizes.

Silencer covers

The new silencer guards feature a longer shape and provide improved heat protection

M696+

The 696+ is a factory-personalised model featuring some neat designer touches to help you stand out from the crowd. A beautiful single seat cover creates the clean look of a racing seat. The cover easily unclips to allow room for your favourite passenger while the neat micro-bikini fairing adds a custom touch to the front end.

M696 ABS

For the first time since its debut, the Ducati Monster is available with ABS (anti-lock braking system). Unlike the majority of motorcycle ABS set-ups, this system has the advantage of ensuring a more natural braking ‘feel’ for the rider. The Monster 696 ABS is equipped with ABS, the single seat cover and the neat micro-bikini fairing.

 

 

 

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2014 Ducati Monster 696 – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $9,295 USD

Engine Type
L-Twin cylinder, 2 valve per cylinder Desmodromic, air cooled
Displacement
696cc
Bore x Stroke
88 x 57.2mm
Compression ratio
10.7:1
Power
58.8 kW (80 hp) @ 9,000 rpm
Torque
69 Nm (50.6 lb-ft) @ 7,750 rpm

Technical data referring to power and torque was measured on an engine test stand at Ducati.
Fuel injection
Electronic fuel injection, 45mm throttle body
Exhaust
2 aluminum mufflers

Transmission

Gearbox
6 speed
Primary drive
Straight cut gears; Ratio 1.85:1
Ratio
1st 32/13, 2nd 30/18, 3rd 28/21, 4th 26/23, 5th 22/22, 6th 24/26
Final drive
Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 45
Clutch
APTC wet multiplate with hydraulic control

Chassis

Frame
Tubular steel Trellis frame
Front suspension
43mm upside-down forks
Front wheel
3-spoke light alloy 3.50 x 17
Front Tyre
Pirelli Angel ST 120/60 17″
Rear suspension
Progressive linkage with preload and rebound adjustable monoshock
Rear wheel
3-spoke light alloy 4.50 x 17
Rear tyre
Pirelli Angel ST 160/60 17″
Front wheel travel
120mm (4.7in)
Rear wheel travel
148mm (5.8in)
Front brake
2 x 320mm discs, 4-piston radial caliper
Rear brake
245mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Instrumentation
Digital unit displaying: Speedometer, rev counter, clock, scheduled maintenance warning, oil temperature, trip fuel, air temperature, lap time, warning light for low oil pressure, fuel level, fuel reserve, neutral, turn signals, overrev, immobilizer. Ready for DDA system

Dimensions and weight

Dry weight
161kg (355lb) / 163kg (359lb) ABS version

Weight data refers to the dry weight of the motorcycle without battery, lubricants and coolants for liquid-cooled models.
Wet weight (KERB)
185Kg (407lb)
ABS wet weight (KERB)
186kg (410,1lb)

Kerb weights indicate total bike weight with all operating consumable liquids and a fuel tank filled to 90% of capacity (as per EC standard 93/93).
Seat height
770mm (30.3in)
Wheelbase
1450mm (57.1in)
Rake
24°
Trail
87mm (3,42 in)
Fuel tank capacity
15l – 3.8 gallon (US) 13.5l – 3.6 gallon (US) ABS version
Number of seats
Dual seat

Warranty

Warranty
2 years unlimited mileage
Valve clearance check
7.500m

Emissions and Consumption

Standard
follows the US Federal Regulation

 

 

 

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2014 Ducati Monster 696 – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $9,995 CDN

Engine Type
L-Twin cylinder, 2 valve per cylinder Desmodromic, air cooled
Displacement
696cc
Bore x Stroke
88 x 57.2mm
Compression ratio
10.7:1
Power
58.8 kW (80 hp) @ 9,000 rpm
Torque
69 Nm (50.6 lb-ft) @ 7,750 rpm

Technical data referring to power and torque was measured on an engine test stand at Ducati.
Fuel injection
Electronic fuel injection, 45mm throttle body
Exhaust
2 aluminum mufflers

Transmission

Gearbox
6 speed
Primary drive
Straight cut gears; Ratio 1.85:1
Ratio
1st 32/13, 2nd 30/18, 3rd 28/21, 4th 26/23, 5th 22/22, 6th 24/26
Final drive
Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 45
Clutch
APTC wet multiplate with hydraulic control

Chassis

Frame
Tubular steel Trellis frame
Front suspension
43mm upside-down forks
Front wheel
3-spoke light alloy 3.50 x 17
Front Tyre
Pirelli Angel ST 120/60 17″
Rear suspension
Progressive linkage with preload and rebound adjustable monoshock
Rear wheel
3-spoke light alloy 4.50 x 17
Rear tyre
Pirelli Angel ST 160/60 17″
Front wheel travel
120mm (4.7in)
Rear wheel travel
148mm (5.8in)
Front brake
2 x 320mm discs, 4-piston radial caliper
Rear brake
245mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Instrumentation
Digital unit displaying: Speedometer, rev counter, clock, scheduled maintenance warning, oil temperature, trip fuel, air temperature, lap time, warning light for low oil pressure, fuel level, fuel reserve, neutral, turn signals, overrev, immobilizer. Ready for DDA system

Dimensions and weight

Dry weight
161kg (355lb) / 163kg (359lb) ABS version

Weight data refers to the dry weight of the motorcycle without battery, lubricants and coolants for liquid-cooled models.
Wet weight (KERB)
185Kg (407lb)
ABS wet weight (KERB)
186kg (410,1lb)

Kerb weights indicate total bike weight with all operating consumable liquids and a fuel tank filled to 90% of capacity (as per EC standard 93/93).
Seat height
770mm (30.3in)
Wheelbase
1450mm (57.1in)
Rake
24°
Trail
87mm (3,42 in)
Fuel tank capacity
15l – 3.8 gallon (US) 13.5l – 3.6 gallon (US) ABS version
Number of seats
Dual seat

Warranty

Warranty
2 years unlimited mileage
Valve clearance check
7.500m

Emissions and Consumption

Standard
follows the US Federal Regulation

 

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2014 Ducati Monster 696 – Totalmotorcycle.com United Kingdom Specifications/Technical Details
British MSRP Price: £ 6,995 GBP

Engine Type
L-Twin cylinder, 2 valve per cylinder Desmodromic, air cooled
Displacement
803cc
Bore x Stroke
88 x 66 mm
Compression ratio
11:1
Power
64 kW (87 hp) @ 8,250 rpm
Torque
78 Nm (58 lb-ft) @ 6,250 rpm

Technical data referring to power and torque was measured on an engine test stand at Ducati.
Fuel injection
Electronic fuel injection, 45mm throttle body
Exhaust
Lightweight 2-1-2 system with catalytic converter with twin lambda probes

Transmission

Gearbox
6 speed
Primary drive
Straight cut gears; Ratio 1.85:1
Ratio
1st 32/13, 2nd 30/18, 3rd 28/21, 4th 26/23, 5th 22/22, 6th 24/26
Final drive
Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 39
Clutch
APTC wet multiplate with hydraulic control

Chassis

Frame
Tubular steel Trellis frame
Front suspension
43mm upside-down forks
Front wheel
Y-shaped, 5-spoke in light alloy 3.50 x17
Front Tyre
120/70 ZR17 Pirelli Diablo Rosso
Rear suspension
Progressive linkage with preload and rebound adjustable monoshock
Rear wheel
Y-shaped, 5-spoke in light alloy 5.50 x 17
Rear tyre
180/55 ZR17 Pirelli Diablo Rosso
Front wheel travel
120mm (4.7in)
Rear wheel travel
148mm (5.8in)
Front brake
2 x 320mm discs, 4-piston radial caliper
Rear brake
245mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Instrumentation
Digital unit displaying: Speedometer, rev counter, clock, scheduled maintenance warning, oil temperature, trip fuel, lap time, warning light for low oil pressure, fuel level, fuel reserve, neutral, turn signals, overrev, immobilizer. Ready for DDA system.

Dimensions and weight

Dry weight
167kg (369lb) / 169kg (373lb) ABS version

Weight data refers to the dry weight of the motorcycle without battery, lubricants and coolants for liquid-cooled models.
Wet weight (KERB)
187kg (412lb)
ABS wet weight (KERB)
188kg (414.5 lb)

Kerb weights indicate total bike weight with all operating consumable liquids and a fuel tank filled to 90% of capacity (as per EC standard 93/93).
Seat height
800mm (31.5in)
Wheelbase
1450mm (57.1in)
Rake
24°
Trail
87mm (3,42 in)
Fuel tank capacity
15l – 3.8 gallon (US) 13.5l – 3.6 gallon (US) ABS version
Number of seats
Dual seat

Warranty

Warranty
2 years unlimited mileage
Maintenance service intervals
7.500m
Valve clearance check
7.500m

Emissions and Consumption

Standard
Euro 3

 

*GBP Prices quoted are SRP’s including 20% VAT and the cost of pre-delivery inspection.

Specifications, features and prices to change by manufacturer without notice. Information from Total Motorcycle.com; All information correct as of posted date.