Ducati has just confirmed rumors related to the introduction of an all-new Italian naked by adding the Monster 796 to their 2010 model lineup. The big news follows Ducati’s poor Monster 1100 sells as the biggest Monster of them all gets close to the race-spec Streetfighter’s pricing range. Also taking in consideration the fact that the Monster 696 doesn’t have enough juice to keep the good stuff coming for more experienced riders, the need was felt for a middle solution, NOT a new middleweight model. So here it is.

The new bike came to life after Ducati combined the chassis of the big Monster with the 2010 Hypermotard 796 engine. We must say the Borgo Panigale manufacturer has great expectations from their in-between solution, which they claim being "the perfect synthesis between sports performances, aesthetics and daily riving pleasure."

While we cannot contradict them in any way, we’ll just have to let the numbers speak for themselves: 87hp and 58 lb-ft of torque coming from the 803cc, two-valve, air-cooled twin, all while weighing in at a 369 lbs dry. Optional ABS will add 4 lbs to the standard weight figure. Bodywork colors available for when the bike is supposed to hit Europe’s dealerships this April are Ducati Red, Arctic White, or Diamond Black Silk, all with the red frame and black wheels. Considering the €8990 European pricing, the 2010 Ducati Monster 796 shouldn’t start at more than $10K in the United States.

This new Duck has gone from rumor to fact in a very short time and it is all thanks to Ducati’s variety of “donor bikes” that helped put it together. This means little investment for the Italian company and more profit, definitely the theoretical way to rise up overall sales of the Monster lineup. Factual, we’ll just have to wait and see. Hit the jump for the official video and full specs.

Update: Press Release is also attached after the jump.

2010 Ducati Monster 796

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2010 Ducati Monster 796
  • Engine/Motor: L-Twin cylinder, 2 valve per cylinder Desmodromic, air cooled
  • Horsepower: 87hp @ 8,250rpm
  • Torque: 58lb-ft @ 6250rpm
  • Transmission: 6 speed