Ducati officially releases Monster 1100 and 1100 S

Whenever an icon like the original Ducati Monster is restyled, the results are sure to be controversial. That was the case last year when the Italian bike-maker launched the Monster 696, the only naked sportbike from Ducati using the new design for the model year. As expected, 2009 brings an 1100cc addition to the new Monster range powered by the same air-cooled Desmo engine from the Multistrada and Hypermotard. Power output stands at 95-horsepower at 7500rpm and 79.5 lb-ft of torque at 6000rpm. It's that torque figure that will be most appreciated over that of the 696, which still remains available for '09.

A single-sided swingarm makes the new 1100 stand apart from its smaller sibling, as do the slightly more massive dual exhausts. Both a standard Monster 1100 and a S-model will be available, the latter of which will include a 43mm titanium nitride coated forks and a new progressive rear shock from Ohlins. A few extra carbon fiber bits help drop 2.2-pounds from the 1100's 371-pound dry weight and gold wheels give it some instant visual pizazz. All the details are available in the press release after the break.


PRESS RELEASE: DUCATI ANNOUNCES THE NEW 2009 MONSTER 1100 AND 1100 S MODELS The arrival of the two big-bore Monsters completes the redesign of the iconic model family. Cupertino, CA (25 September 2008) – Ducati North America is pleased to announce the latest additions to its iconic Monster line of "naked" sport bikes, the Monster 1100 and 1100 S models. The arrival of the new Monster 1100 and 1100 S models increases the displacement of the redesigned Monster family, which defines the naked motorcycle and has been staking its claim worldwide as the new icon of Italian excellence. 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. The Monster 1100 weighs only 371 lbs (369 lbs for the S version), making it by far the lightest bike in its category. The new Monster 1100 design perfectly balances sports performance, riding pleasure and stunning looks. With its single-sided aluminum swingarm, high-spec componentry, race-oriented chassis and 15 years of evolution, the Monster 1100 now takes its place at the head of the Monster family. The Monster 1100 S is a pure concentrate of light weight, power, design and exclusivity. The 'S' features fully adjustable 43mm titanium nitride coated Ohlins forks and progressive Ohlins rear shock absorber with adjustable pre-load and return damping. Carbon fiber cam belt covers, silencer guards and front fender reduce weight by a further 2.2 lbs. The distinctive gold five spoke wheels of the Monster 1100 S give it the elegant style and same sporting look as historical Ducati race bikes. Both versions of the new Monster 1100 come with removable single seat covers and neat micro-bikini fairings; and are powered by the charismatic two-valve 1100cc Desmodromic twin-cylinder engine that boasts 95hp at 7500rpm and an impressive 79.5 lb/ft of torque at 6000rpm. Color schemes available are: Monster 1100: Red tank, Red frame, Silver wheels Silver tank, Red frame, Silver wheels Gloss black tank, Matte black frame, Silver wheels Monster 1100 S: Red tank, Red frame, Gold wheels Pearl White tank, Matte black frame, Gold wheels The first U.S. appearance for the Monster 1100 will be at the Cycle World International Motorcycle Show in Phoenix Arizona; October 31- November 2nd. For more information about the Monster 1100, 1100 S and their 696cc sibling; please visit http://www.monster.ducati.com/. Founded in 1926, Ducati builds racing-inspired motorcycles characterized by unique engine features, innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. The Company produces motorcycles in five market segments which vary in their technical and design features and intended customers: Superbike, Hypermotard, Monster, Sportclassic, and Multistrada. The Company's motorcycles are sold in more than 60 countries worldwide, with a primary focus in the Western European, Japan and North American markets. Ducati has won fourteen World Superbike titles and more individual victories than the competition put together. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at www.ducati.com.