Motorcycle specifications Ducati800 MONSTER 2003 A new deal

after a career overshadowed by the mutinous 620 and the legendary 900, the 750 Monster is reaffirming its ambitions with this new 800. Timeless, simplistic and oh-so-successful plastics, finesse, the deep, intimidating melody of the twin... the Monster is sure of itself! And like all good Ducat', the stance is sporty. Sure, it's not a 748, but the pressure on the wrists is real. With a clutch that demands a firm grip, firm suspension and a turning radius of a semi-trailer, there's nothing exciting about a ride around town. Except to revel in the envious gaze of passers-by, fascinated by this dress which is THE universal concept, the soul of the Monster. Better still, its lightness and manoeuvrability make it less frightening than you might expect. Thanks to fuel injection, the engine is flexible and obedient as soon as the right hand moves. For a 2-valve twin, the mill is surprisingly long-lasting. Generous in its effort, it only catches its breath at around 4,500 rpm... only to rev up again to number 9. There's no need to pull any harder. How efficient is this 800? Whether it's for acceleration or acceleration from astandstill, it takes the wind out of theold 900.

the fruit of modernity, the unpleasant vibrations have been consigned to the closet. What's left is an intoxicating throb from the beast's guts. It's a real treat to go round and round on winding country roads. With its inverted forks and ST-derived chassis, the Monster is a rail. At full angle, nothing moves. Thanks to the rider's sporty position, you can feel the front end and guide the machine excellently. Fun, but exhausting. Throughout the ride, the suspensions kept the machine firmly on course, but made your back ache. But from now on, you'll have to reckon with it. Better in many ways than the 900, more playful than the 1000, Ducati offers a new weapon of Italian pleasure.

M.B
(inspired by the article by J-P. Dubrun - Moto-journal n° 1 555
manufacturer's photos)