Ducati Unveils New Monster

696 boasts host of improvements

Ducati unveiled its entire 2008 model lineup at the EICMA International Motorcycle Exhibition in Milan, Italy, last week. New bikes, new accessories and a new line of apparel all form part of the innovative 2008 lineup for the Italian manufacturer.

The 2008 Ducati Monster 696.

The Ducati Monster 696 is a new model. Maintaining its traditional Monster silhouette, the 696 now looks more muscular than ever. Its wide tank tapers to the thin waistline of a comfortable narrow seat ensuring sure-footed confidence for shorter riders. The large diameter Hybrid Trellis frame blends stylishly into an aluminium sub-frame and swingarm while minimalist instrumentation and simple controls at the front of the Monster contrast with twin, bold, Ducati-style mufflers at the rear to enhance its urban-ready image.

The chassis of the new Monster is made up of a new Hybrid Trellis frame with larger diameter tubes; attached to a rear aluminium sub-frame. The front brake system is the envy of its class and becomes the new benchmark for the category with two 320mm discs and four-piston radial calipers.

The engine of the new 696 is an evolution of the previous 695 version. Power output gets a 9 percent boost to 80hp and an 11 percent increase in torque to 50.6 lb-ft. This new engine continues to have the best horsepower per litre ratio of all Ducatis air-cooled units.

For 2008, the Superbike family features two important additions: the introduction of a mid-engine size version, the light and nimble 848, and an extreme racing version for all those who demand the maximum performance, the 1098 R which will take part in the 2008 World Superbike Championship.

For more information, visit DucatiUSA.com.

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