New Ducati Monster Dark | Ducati Stoke

• The new Monster Dark gives Ducati's best-known naked bike an all-black finish
• 890 cc Euro 5+ V2 with 111 hp, 91.1 Nm and valve checks only every 45,000 km
• A 35 kW version is available for A2 licence holders

Ducati has given the Monster a darker edge. The new Monster Dark takes the fifth-generation Monster and turns the paintwork, wheels and seat black, leaving the shape of the bike to do the talking. It is on its way to Ducati dealerships now, and Ducati Stoke is already taking enquiries.

Black from tank to tail

The Dark keeps the details that make a Monster recognisable at a glance: the headlight tucked between the shoulders of the tank, the one-piece seat and the short, tidy tail. What changes is the finish. The wheels are black, the seat is trimmed in a single fabric, and the front frame, exhaust end caps and air intake snorkel are left unpainted. Static indicators finish off the cleaner look.

It is a deliberate nod to the original Monster of 1992 — a bike built on the idea that a motorcycle needs very little to be exciting.

The same V2 underneath

Mechanically, the Dark shares its running gear with the rest of the current Monster line-up. The 890 cc V2, with variable intake valve timing, makes 111 hp at 9,000 rpm and 91.1 Nm at 7,250 rpm. More than 80% of that torque is available from 4,000 to 10,000 rpm, which is why the Monster feels as at home in town traffic as it does on a good Staffordshire B-road. Valve clearance checks are needed only every 45,000 km, so servicing costs stay sensible.

The chassis is built around an aluminium monocoque frame, and at 175 kg without fuel the Dark weighs 4 kg less than the previous Monster. Seat height is 815 mm, dropping to 795 mm with the low seat and 775 mm with the low seat and lowering kit. Showa suspension, Brembo M4.32 Monobloc calipers on twin 320 mm discs and Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres complete the package.

Rider aids and technology

A 6-axis inertial platform supports Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control and Engine Brake Control, with four Riding Modes — Sport, Road, Urban and Wet. Information is shown on a 5-inch colour TFT display controlled by a handlebar joystick, and the bike is ready for the Ducati Multimedia System and turn-by-turn navigation. Lighting is full LED with a daytime running light.

Ducati Quick Shift, cruise control, a passenger seat cover and a windscreen are among the options, and we can talk you through the full accessories and apparel range when you visit.

An option for A2 licence holders

The Monster Dark is also available in a 35 kW version for A2 licence holders, so newer riders can own the bike now and have it restored to full power once they move up to a full licence.

Key specifications

See the Monster Dark at Ducati Stoke

To find out more about the Monster Dark, call the team on 01782 848191 or visit us at Pool Dam, Newcastle-under-Lyme, ST5 2ED. You can also register for a test ride, request a finance quote or browse the rest of the Monster range.

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