IntroductionProbably Ducati’s most famous model, the Monster 600 is now an even more evolved motorcycle. It all reduces to the riding experience that the new naked delivers and that’s where the tubular steel trellis frame needs to be mentioned. The main section is shared with the 1098R and linked to the cast-aluminum subframe while the swingarm is brand new, footpeg hanger included. This shows how Ducati is keen on establishing the standards in matter of handling and comfort because despite the completely new chassis, the seat remains positioned at 30.3 inches from the ground and the handlebars are brought closer to the rider while the footpegs now allow you to hug the tank better with your knees. It seems Ducati is well aware of the fact that their small Monster is notorious among female riders and it tries to meet their requests.

80-hp fuel injected L-twin engine
But sharp handling and great comfort are only supposed to allow a rider to get the most out of the motor. In this case it is all about the new air-cooled, 696cc, L-twin with two valves per cylinder Desmodromic. This manages to retain the bore and stroke (88 x 57.2mm) of the previous generation model, the 695, but features modified cylinder and cylinder head as well as larger valves and overall simplified design with even more cooling fins for greater effectiveness. That’s because performance figures have now been raised to 80 hp at 9000 rpm and 51 ft-lbs of torque at 7750 rpm. Compared to the 695 engine, the new generation one revs higher, is claimed to be even smoother and more reliable.The fuel-injected engine (a Siemens electronic fuel injection system, to be precise) together with the tall gearing ensures the Monster 696 meets Euro 3 regulations. Actually, the gear ratios are the same as on the 695 and that’s a disadvantage that only a great amount of torque can fix.
The dashboard also shares most features with the 1098R and offers information concerning speed, revs, time, scheduled maintenance warning, oil temperature, trip fuel, air temperature, lap time, low oil pressure warning, fuel level, fuel reserve, neutral, turn signals, overrev and immobilizer. Also, this makes the new Monster ready for the DDA system (Ducati Data Analyzer) that provides the rider with crucial information regarding throttle opening, vehicle speed, engine rpm, engine temperature, distance travelled, laps and lap times. This is all for making a better rider out of each one that throws a leg over the DDA-equipped new Monster.
The 2010 model year’s distinctive feature is actually an optional one, ABS. This turns the Ducati Monster 696 into an even more user-friendly bike.
CompetitionStarting 1999, the Suzuki SV650 was the main contender for the entry-level Ducati Monster. This too was powered by a sporty V-twin, featured a six-speed tranny and got fuel injection later on, so it followed the industry’s trend and remained overall competitive. Styling was fairly similar to that of the middleweight Ducati, indicating that the SV650 was virtually created to get a piece of the Italian naked’s pie. Although the Suzuki SV650 and its ABS version haven’t been carried on, the Japanese manufacturer launched the Gladius as what we believe to be a funkier replacement and alternative, depending on where you’re looking.
While the SV and Gladius remain the top contenders for the new Monster, we can’t help noticing that BMW created a less threatening alternative in the form of the G 650 Xcountry. It only has one cylinder, but the thing is also supposed to do very well when you run short of asphalt and that’s also what BMW relies on in order to get its fair share of the market.
Inline-fours such as the Yamaha FZ6 or the Honda CB600F are a bit too much for the Monster, but the battle won’t feel overwhelming for this last.

Exterior
Given the major evolutionary steps that the bike underwent during its long existence, you might thing it drifted away from the original look and fallen into the modern custom of improving what doesn’t need to. In fact, when you have something good on your hands, you stick to it and that’s what Ducati did and continues doing with the Monster. Wherever you ride, this thing will be recognized as being a Monster and I must say it gets a lot of attention. Being an Italian bike, it looks much more expensive than it actually is and it’s a pleasure just to look at your reflection in every single piece of glass as getting across the urban jungle in style.
The fact that the gas tank is 20mm shorter makes the seat feel even lower and brings the rider even closer to the bars, meaning he will stay in proper control over the machine at all times. Also, the brand new gas tank is made of a high-quality plastic material, which can be simply changed with another one when damaged or when the rider simply wishes to have another color for his stylish Italian ride.
2010 Ducati Monster 696Stylistically, everything about the new, small Ducati Monster is sharpened, looks more inviting for the rider and always ready to make a fan out of each of those getting a glimpse of it. Everything from the headlight and signal lights, mirrors and instrument cluster to the aggressive tail (2-into-two exhaust included) featuring an LED taillight looks like being sketched by the wind tunnel blast.
The three-spoke rims (black) look very nice and blend perfectly in with in overall design as well as with the Red, Matte Black and Pearl White colors available. Also, the customization possibilities will keep owners busy for more than a while.
SPECIFCATIONS
Engine and Transmission
Type: L-Twin cylinder, 2 valve per cylinder Desmodromic, air cooledDisplacement: 696ccBore x Stroke: 88 x 57.2mmCompression Ratio: 10.7:1Power: 58.8kW – 80hp @ 9000rpmTorque: 7.0kgm – 50.6lb-ft @ 7750rpmFuel injection: Siemens electronic fuel injection, 45mm throttle bodyExhaust: 2 aluminum mufflersGearbox: 6 speedRatio: 1st 32/13, 2nd 30/18, 3rd 28/21, 4th 26/23, 5th 22/22, 6th 24/26Primary Drive: Straight cut gears; Ratio 1.85:1Final Drive: Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 45Clutch: APTC wet multiplate with hydraulic control
Emissions
Standard: Euro 3
Chassis and Dimensions
Frame: Tubular steel Trellis frameWheelbase: 1450mm (57.1in)Rake: 24°Front Suspension: Showa 43mm upside-down forksFront Wheel Travel: 120mm (4.7in)Front Wheel: 3-spoke light alloy 3.50 x 17Front Tyre: 120/60 ZR17Rear Suspension: Progressive linkage with preload and rebound Sachs adjustable monoshockRear Wheel Travel: 148mm (5.8in)Rear Wheel: 3-spoke light alloy 4.50 x 17Rear Tyre: 160/60 ZR17Front Brake: 2 x 320mm discs, 4-piston radial caliperRear Brake: 245mm disc, 2-piston caliperFuel Tank Capacity: 15l – 3.8gallon (US) / 13.5l – 3.6gallon (US) ABS versionDry Weight: 161kg (355lb) / 163kg (359lb) ABS version
Other
Instruments: Digital unit displaying: Speedometer, rev counter, clock, scheduled maintenance warning, oil temperature, trip fuel, air temperature, lap time, warning light for low oil pressure, fuel level, fuel reserve, neutral, turn signals, overrev, immobilizer. Ready for DDA systemWarranty: 2 years unlimited mileageBody Colour (Frame/Wheel): Red (red / back) – Matt black (matt black / black) – Pearl white (matt black / black) – Monster Art colours (matt black / black)
Versions
Dual seatSeat Height: 770mm (30.3in)DDA: DDA system-ready for Ducati Performance accessoryDTC: Not available on this modelABS: Available upon request

Tags: 2010 Ducati Monster 696 cast aluminum electronic fuel injection euro 3 fuel injection system gear ratios generation model hp fuel monster 600 performance figures simplified design
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