Monster 696 gets more power

With more muscle and a convertible wardrobe, Ducati's Monster 696 enters 2008 ready to defend its status as a member of the famiglia Naked Bike numero uno.

The new 696 cc air-cooled motor produces 9 per cent more horsepower (now 80) and 11 per cent more torque (50.6 lb-ft) than the 695 it replaces and boasts the best horsepower-per-litre ratio of any air-cooled Ducati.

Cylinder heads are now similar to those on the 1100 Multistrada and Hypermotard, and camshafts rotate on bearing surfaces directly, supported by oil pressure, which reduces weight in the heads.

Bore and stroke have not changed from the 695, but pistons and combustion chambers have been altered to improve flow. Engine cooling is improved through new fins more tightly spaced. 

Removable tank skins

A new trellis frame with larger diameter tubes is attached to a rear aluminum sub-frame, and front brakes operate four-piston, radially-mounted calipers on 320 mm discs.

Ergonomics have been improved with a shorter reach to the bar and slightly lower, more forward footpegs. A slimming program has also trimmed 5 kg (to 163 kg/359 lb) from the Monster's already-lithe figure.

Uniquely,the bike is equipped with removable outer tank skins to enable easy colour swaps, and a removable rear seat cover adds to the convertible look.

No word on pricing or availability just yet, but there's no reason why we wouldn't see it in the Great White North soon.