The Ducati brand is synonymous with high performance and exquisite style. Two of the most popular bikes in their lineup are the Monster and Streetfighter, both offering exceptional performance, style, and riding experience.
If you are in the market for a Ducati bike, you may find yourself debating between the two. In this article, we explore the differences and similarities between the Ducati Monster and Streetfighter to help you make an informed decision.
Contents
The Ducati Monster
The Ducati Monster is an iconic naked bike that has been in production since the early 1990s. Over the years, it has gained a cult following among motorcyclists seeking a balance of style, performance, and comfort.
The current generation of the Monster features a distinctive trellis frame, a powerful twin-cylinder engine, and advanced electronics.
- The Monster is offered in three engine sizes: 797cc, 937cc, and 1200cc. Each engine delivers a smooth and responsive power output, with the 1200cc delivering a massive 147 horsepower.
- The Monster lineup also features a host of advanced electronics, including ride-by-wire throttle, three riding modes, cornering ABS, and traction control. These technologies enhance safety and performance while delivering an exceptional riding experience.
- The Monster’s distinctive styling incorporates a muscular fuel tank, single-sided swingarm, and compact tail section. The bike is also available in a range of color options, allowing you to personalize your ride.
- The Monster’s comfortable riding position and suspension setup make it an excellent choice for long-distance touring or weekend rides in the twisties. The bike’s lightweight construction and nimble handling also make it a joy to ride in traffic and around town.
The Ducati Streetfighter
The Ducati Streetfighter is a more recent addition to the Italian manufacturer’s lineup. It first appeared as a concept bike in 2008 and went into production in 2009.
The Streetfighter is a high-performance naked bike that is designed to deliver an exhilarating riding experience on both the road and the track.
- The Streetfighter is powered by a high-performance Testastretta V4 engine, producing up to 208 horsepower and 123 Nm of torque. This engine is capable of propelling the bike from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds.
- The Streetfighter’s advanced electronics include a full-color TFT display, ride-by-wire throttle, four riding modes, cornering ABS, traction control, and wheelie control. These technologies ensure precise control and maximum performance in all riding conditions.
- The Streetfighter’s styling is inspired by Ducati’s legendary 916 superbike, with a sharp and aggressive profile, exposed trellis frame, and angular LED headlights. The bike also features top-of-the-line components, including a fully adjustable suspension, Brembo brakes, and lightweight Marchesini wheels.
- The Streetfighter’s sporty riding position and stiff suspension setup make it ideal for aggressive riding and track use. However, its comfort features, such as adjustable footpegs, also make it suitable for longer rides.
Differences and Similarities
Despite their distinctive features, the Ducati Monster and Streetfighter share many similarities. Both bikes offer exceptional performance, advanced electronics, and distinctive Italian styling.
- The Monster and Streetfighter are both naked bikes, with minimalist styling that emphasizes form and function over unnecessary faff.
- Both bikes feature advanced electronics, including ride-by-wire throttle, cornering ABS, and traction control, improving their safety and performance.
- Both bikes feature distinctive trellis frames, a hallmark of the Ducati brand, which not only looks great but also contributes to the bikes’ handling prowess.
- Both bikes offer exceptional performance, with powerful engines and sporty suspension setups.
However, there are also some key differences between the two bikes.
- The Monster is designed more for street and touring use, while the Streetfighter is built for aggressive riding and track use. The Streetfighter’s uncompromising riding position and stiff suspension make it unsuitable for long-distance touring.
- The Streetfighter’s V4 engine produces significantly more power than the Monster’s twin-cylinder units, delivering a more exhilarating riding experience.
- The Streetfighter’s advanced electronics package includes wheelie control, which is not available on the Monster. This feature helps prevent the front wheel from lifting during hard acceleration and improves the bike’s stability at high speeds.
- While the Monster is available in a range of engine sizes, the Streetfighter is only available with the high-performance Testastretta V4 engine. This means that the Streetfighter is not as accessible to novice riders as the Monster.
| Ducati Monster | Ducati Streetfighter | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Naked/Sport motorcycle | Naked/Sport motorcycle |
| Engine | Varies depending on the model (e.g., L-twin, V2) | V4 |
| Displacement | Varies depending on the model (ranging from around 797cc to 1,200cc) | 1,103cc |
| Power | Varies depending on the model (ranging from around 73hp to 152hp) | Around 208hp |
| Torque | Varies depending on the model (ranging from around 49 lb-ft to 93 lb-ft) | Around 90 lb-ft |
| Weight | Varies depending on the model (ranging from around 370lbs to 460lbs) | Around 392lbs |
| Design | Iconic naked bike design with exposed frame and minimalist styling | Aggressive and muscular design with sharp lines and aerodynamic elements |
| Riding Position | Upright and comfortable, with a slight forward lean | Aggressive and sporty, with a forward-leaning position |
| Suspension | Varies depending on the model, usually equipped with adjustable forks and rear monoshock | Fully adjustable Ohlins suspension |
| Electronics | Varies depending on the model, but may include features such as multiple riding modes, traction control, and ABS | Advanced electronics package with IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, and more |
| Instrumentation | LCD or TFT display, varying based on the model | TFT color display with comprehensive information |
| Price | Varies depending on the model and features | Generally higher-priced compared to the Monster models |
| Reputation | Known for its versatility, urban agility, and accessibility for riders of different levels | Renowned for its high-performance capabilities and track-oriente |
Conclusion
The Ducati Monster and Streetfighter are two exceptional naked bikes that offer performance, style, and an exhilarating riding experience.
The Monster is a more versatile bike, suitable for both street and touring use, while the Streetfighter is a high-performance beast designed for aggressive riding and track use.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your riding style and preferences. If you are looking for a bike that can do it all, including touring and aggressive riding, the Ducati Monster is the perfect choice.
However, if you want a high-performance naked bike that can hold its own on the track, the Ducati Streetfighter is the way to go. Either way, you can’t go wrong with a Ducati.
