Re: 2018 Ducati Monster 821 launch on May 1, 2018. EDIT: Launched at Rs. 9.51 lakhs Quote:
Originally Posted by CrAzY dRiVeR Haven't tested one - so curious. How would you rate the Monster against the competition of sport naked machines from other manufacturers? Who is the target rider for this machine? |
I think Ducati should offer more on the Monster if its charging as much as the Striple RS. The upgrades bring some parity but the suspension really should have been adjustable. I can tell you that even on the sweeping flyovers in Pune, i get nervous the way it twitches when the road gets uneven. I havent ridden it like for 100s of kms yet to be precise in describing how it feels but cornering will take some getting used to - it just doesnt seem sure footed.
Who is the target rider for this machine is such a tough question to answer. Honestly, there aren't many naked street bikes available in India. Somehow besides the Monster triplets, MT09 and now probably the GSX750 (half heartedly included in the list), there are none. I won't count the adventure category bikes in this list though they are the only other option (which isn't much besides Versys 650).
So I can answer for myself - i bought it cause it seemed like the perfect everyday bike without looking like a hulk. Just the right amount of power, riding modes to pick how much of it you want, big on safety, beautifully made and usable pillion seat. The L-Twin isn't exactly high on refinement compared to the Japs and the service costs a bomb but this is one bike i would want to ride everyday. And actually I'am
The Z900 would still get my vote if you are on a budget but not having the option to ride 2 up was a deal breaker for me. The only other bike i considered seriously was MT-09. But for 12 lacs, it just didn't seem right and would have gone in blind since no option to take a test ride. Did consider the T-120 but i wasn't ready to go retro or cruiser (not yet at least) and price tag was a downer.
So long answer short - target is those who want a light, nimble, ride every day bike. Ducati doesn't have the one key quality japs have and is required in this list - a reasonable cost of ownership. But am willing to find my way out of that so lets see.
Last edited by Nilesh5417 : 4th May 2018 at 17:30.
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