Ducati Monster 796 breaks cover

Italian motorcycle manufacturer Ducati has taken the wraps off its latest nakedbike, the Monster 796.

Aimed squarely at the Triumph Street Triple (and to a lesser extent the BMW F800R), the new Duke is powered by an 803cc Desmodue L-twin motor and is expected to deliver Ducati another affordable option in its burgeoning range.

Ducati explains that the new model is being launched "as an early 2011 model" and will be offered first in Europe from early May, and then will be available in Australasia by July 2010.

Slotting in between the Ducati Monster 696 and 1100 models, the new middleweight nakedbike features the same air-cooled two-valve 803cc engine from the Hypermotard, and can be expected to output a respectable 87hp (64kW) and 78Nm of torque.

Ducati says the new model tips the scales at 167kg with no fluids, and will be fitted with "micro-bikini fairing" along with a single seat cover as standard equipment. The seat boasts a "comfort-enhancing shape" and is finished with red stitching, and another new feature is the rear sub-frame, which has been designed to work with optional pillion grab handles "to provide a confidence-inspiring grip for the passenger, while blending into the natural line of the tail-end."

Some of the other features of the new Monster 796 include switchable ABS, a wet slipper clutch and a digital tachometer.

Ducati has fiddled with the riding position by reducing the seat heat by 10mm (now 800mm from the ground) and raising the handlebars by 20mm, which it claims helps improve posture and comfort.

The design of the new model appears to have been left relatively unchanged from its Monster 696 and 1100 brethren, but some would say that is not a particularly bad thing.

Prospective buyers can look forward to three colours: Traditional Ducati Red, new Arctic White Silk or Diamond Black Silk. All bikes feature a red trellis frame with contrasting black wheels with red trim.

Ducati is confident of attracting new customers with the Monster 796, stating that "When you choose to ride the Monster, you're not just choosing a bike, but an entire lifestyle. A desire to experience the exhilaration of naked power from an iconic motorcycle."