Ducati unleashes Monster 696

With leading features, quality and safety, the user friendliness of Monster is well recognised and appreciated by beginner through to the most experienced riders. Everything about Monster has been improved in the 696 - new design, new styling, new technology, less weight, more power.

With its thinner waistline, low 770mm seat height and shorter reach to higher bars and feather-light controls the ergonomics have been taken care of for all riders. The hybrid chassis design, taken directly from Ducati's MotoGP championship winning experience with Casey Stoner, also features only the highest quality components: Inverted Showa forks, Sachs mono-shock with progressive linkage, Brembo brakes with radial design at the front, and Marchesini 3-spoke wheels. With a dry weight of 161kgs, the 696 is also the lightest in its class. Combined with the light weight is increased power and torque from the Desmo V-Twin engine. Power is increased by 9% to 80hp and torque by 11% to 7kgm.

As with all other current Ducati models, the 696 enjoys longer service intervals, reducing costs by up to 50% from previous models. The 696 is offered in two versions; the 696 and 696+. Both models being identical, the "+" version features the neat micro-bikini fairing and a single seat cover that completes the look of a racing seat. Both versions of the 696 are available in the same 3 colour options - Red with Red Frame and Black Wheels, White with Matte Black Frame and Black Wheels, Matte Black with Matte Black Frame and Black Wheels. 696 RRP is $12,995 (plus ORC) which is the same as the Monster 695 it's replacing. 696+ RRP is $13,595 (plus ORC) which represents additional value for the mini fairing and single seat cover. Inclusive of the RRP is 2-Year/ unlimited kilometre warranty and 2-Year/24 hour Ducati rider assist emergency service.

The 696+ is available now, with the 696 arriving in October.