Quick Take: 2026 Ducati Monster — What’s New, Specs, and U.S. Pricing

Overview

I took the latest Ducati Monster for a quick spin—figuratively and literally—to see whether this naked icon still nails the essentials: light weight, tractable power, sharp handling, and everyday usability. The short answer: yes, with a little extra spice depending on which trim you pick.

Model Lineup at a Glance

• Monster (base): The most accessible entry, keeping the 937cc Testastretta twin, lightweight chassis, and rider aids you actually use day to day. It’s the purist’s pick if you want the core Monster experience without the frills.
• Monster +: Adds small but meaningful upgrades like the flyscreen and passenger seat cover, plus fresh colorways. A tidy sweet spot for style and practicality.
• Monster SP: Ohlins suspension, upgraded brakes, sport rubber, and a tastefully rowdy Termignoni—this one’s for riders who plan to hustle on twisty weekends and the occasional track day.
• Monster Senna (special edition): A collectible livery and premium kit to honor Ayrton Senna—exclusive, eye-catching, and aimed at aficionados.

What’s New/Notable

• Engine and character: The 937cc Testastretta remains a gem—torquey in the midrange, friendly at low speeds, and lively enough up top to keep you grinning. It’s the kind of engine that lets you short-shift lazily around town or crack it open on a back road without feeling punished.
• Chassis balance: Ducati’s aluminum front frame keeps the Monster light and flickable. Steering is neutral, the bike feels planted on corner exit, and it’s confidence-inspiring for newer riders while still engaging for veterans.
• Electronics: Cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, power modes, and a quickshifter (up/down on higher trims) keep the ride modern without getting in the way. The TFT display is clean and intuitive.
• Ergonomics: An upright, slightly forward stance with a narrow waist makes it approachable. Optional lower seat and suspension kit are helpful for shorter riders.

Key Specifications

• Power: 111 hp (82 kW) @ ~9,250 rpm
• Torque: 69 lb-ft (93 Nm) @ ~6,500 rpm
• Curb weight: ~414 lb (188 kg) wet for base/+
• Seat height: 32.3 in (820 mm); optional low setup ~31.5 in (800 mm)
• Fuel capacity: 3.7 gal (14 L)
• Wheelbase: 58.5 in (1,485 mm)

How It Rides

• City: Easy clutch, smooth fueling, and compact dimensions make lane work and parking simple. Heat management is decent for a sporty twin.
• Back roads: The base and + trims are playful; the SP noticeably tightens body control and braking consistency at pace. If you’re aggressive on the brakes or love late-apex changes, the SP’s Ohlins and Brembos pay off.
• Highway: Stable and composed; wind protection is minimal (by design), but the + flyscreen takes the edge off.

Who Should Buy Which

• Commuter/weekend all-rounder: Monster or Monster +.
• Sport-focused rider: Monster SP.
• Collector or brand devotee: Monster Senna.

U.S. Pricing (MSRP)

• Monster (base): Starts around $12,995.
• Monster +: Starts around $13,195–$13,595 depending on color/market updates.
• Monster SP: Starts around $15,995.
• Monster Senna: Starts around $25,000.

Note: Dealer fees, destination, color premiums, and local taxes vary by location.

Bottom Line

The newest Monster keeps the formula delightfully simple: lightweight feel, real-world torque, and enough tech to be safe without diluting character. Choose the trim that matches your roads and riding style, and you’ll have a naked bike that’s as happy slicing city traffic as it is strafing Sunday sweepers.