The 696 is the smallest member in the Monster family and is packed with a Desmodue, 696 cc, L-Twin cylinder, air cooled engine which offers a maximum output of 80 hp @ 9000 rpm and 50.6lb-ft @ 7750rpm and is paired with a six speed transmission.

Like its bigger siblings the Ducati Monster 696 is fitted with the APTC ‘wet’ clutch which improves stability under aggressive down-shifting. Moreover, the bike features the same lightweight tubular steel Trellis frame with aluminium rear sub-frame found at the Monster 1100 and 796 models.

When designing the Monster 696 Ducati’s engineers have spent a lot of time to carefully refine the bike’s ergonomics. Thereby elements like the fuel tank, seat height and the steering lock were especially designed to maximize comfort.

The 20th Anniversary edition is offered with a series of distinctive features such as the 1986 Ducati logo, the same colors as the 1992 Monster 900 and 90s style wing mirrors.

Hit the jump for more information on the 2013 Ducati Monster 696 20th Anniversary.

Overview

When you choose to ride the Monster, you are not just choosing a bike, but an entire lifestyle. A desire to experience the exhilaration of naked power from an iconic motorcycle.

Concept

Less is Monster

The 'less-is-more' philosophy behind all Monsters underlines Ducati's never-ending pursuit of genuinely compact, high performance motorcycles, but these new models have succeeded in being even more 'pared down' than their predecessors.

Every single component has been redesigned and redeveloped so now more than ever, form follows function. With any details detracting from the Monster concept being eliminated, 'less-is-more' also means 'less-is-Monster'. Less weight plus more torque equals fun-filled riding.

Monster Story

In 1992 Ducati unveiled a new prototype that was to become an icon. Ducati's creation awed the crowds and the world's media of that year's Cologne International Motorcycle show. The 900 Monster was a motorcycle that created a truly new niche - dramatically styled, minimalist in stature yet bristling with innovative engineering solutions. The Monster's radical styling has also provided the inspiration for an entire after-market sector specialising in hot-rod parts for this legendary machine. For this reason, rarely do you see two Monsters the same. This radical and refreshing design departure also influenced other manufacturers but, as the old adage states: imitation is the highest form of flattery... The Monster is characterised by a long and successful history, by its introduction during the years of numerous cylinders and uncountable colour options, but above all by a constant technological evolution that this year brings us to the birth of the last version: the Monster 1100EVO, "The Ultimate Monster".

Engine

APTC Cluctc

The APTC ‘wet’ clutch gives a ‘slipper’ type action that prevents destabilizing of the rear-end under aggressive down-shifting and also gives the extra benefit of a super-light feel at the lever, a great benefit in stop-start city traffic or during longer journeys. The 21-plate oil-bath clutch (11 friction and 10 steel) represents a power-enhancing weight reduction over the ‘dry’ system as well as having a quieter operation and requiring less maintenance.

Desmodue

The engine of the Monster 696 is the legendary Desmodue, 696cc, air cooled, L-Twin engine whose 80hp gives it that unmistakable Ducati sound. Developed for an incredibly flexible power delivery, the 696 Desmodromic engine provides enough torque to exit the most challenging of corners. The impressive torque, typical of the Ducati L-Twin engines, will excite with every twist of the throttle.

Lightweight Crankcases

The new crankcases hug the gearbox internals much closer to create a smaller and more compact outer profile and achieve considerable weight savings over previous cases.

Power and Torque Curves

The Monster 696 produces 80hp (58,8kW) @ 9,000rpm and 50,6lb-ft (7,0kgm) of torque @ 7,750rpm

Exhaust System

Providing a deep and rich exhaust tone within current noise and emissions regulations is no mean feat, but the Monster 696 definitely provides the L-Twin sound famous of Ducati. Its bold, high-level twin mufflers also make a striking style statement.

The exhaust system on the 696 has one Lambda probe dedicated to each cylinder, enabling precise fuelling for a smoother power delivery as well as complying with current emission regulations.

Chassis

Monster Trellis

An immensely strong but light tubular steel Trellis frame with aluminium rear sub-frame is the visual and structural backbone of the Monster. Delivering unparalleled rigidity with minimal mass, the chassis design is pure Ducati in its ingenuity and simplicity. A separate, all aluminium sub-frame saves weight and adds a pleasing continuity with the aluminium footrest hangers and matte finished swingarm.

Aluminium Swingarm

The GP-style swingarm is chill-cast using aluminium in its most noble form. Gravity cast and heat treated, the component achieves the best mechanical characteristics as well as reduced final weight for improved handling.

Lightweight Construction

Every carefully selected component of the Monster 696 has a net benefit to the overall light weight of the machine. The dry weight of 161kgs (355lb) has dramatic effects on not just manoeuvrability and ease of use, but also by contributing directly to increased performance, braking and acceleration.

Sachs rear suspension

At the rear, a Sachs monoshock unit with progressive linkage provide a wide spectrum of both spring and damping settings.

Seat Height

The riding position of the Monster 696 has been specifically designed to put you firmly in control. The seat height is only 770mm (30.3in), making it easier for get both feet firmly planted on the ground.

Ergonomics

The heavily tapered and deeply sculpted fuel tank cover allows maximum comfort and control. The narrowing of the bike's ‘waist’ has the same effect as lowering the seat height, making it easier for more riders to get both feet flat on the floor.

The steering-lock is vastly improved with a useful 64 degrees of lock-to-lock steering travel. Incredible attention to detail has gone into maximising the effective steering-lock.

Lightweight 3-spoke wheels

Lightweight 3-spoke aluminium alloy wheels increase agility and reduce rider effort. The 3.50x17 front wheel wears a 120/60ZR tyre while the 4.50x17 rear wheel runs 160/60ZR rubber. By resisting the temptation to over-tyre the 696 for styling’s sake, the end result is light, predictable and confidence inspiring steering qualities at a wide range of speeds with truly outstanding stability.

Marzocchi forks

Outstanding grip and unbeatable riding comfort are ensured by a 43 mm Marzocchi upside down stanchion fork, which provides 120 mm of suspension travel.

Brembo brakes

The latest in Brembo braking hardware delivers exceptional braking power front and rear to improve rider safety. At the front, 320mm floating discs are gripped by four-piston, radially mounted callipers, while a 245mm floating rear disc works in combination with a twin-piston calliper. This powerful braking set-up offers unrivalled feel and feedback making the 696 safer across a broader spectrum of riding abilities.

Equipment

Stopwatch

The digital display is programmed with a stopwatch function that, when enabled, can be triggered by using the high-beam flash button and each recorded time stored in a memory. After your journey or track session, the times or lap times can be recalled from the memory and scrolled through by using the instrumentation buttons on the left-hand switchgear.

Silincer Covers

The new silencer guards feature a longer shape and provide improved heat protection

M696 ABS

For the first time since its debut, the Ducati Monster is available with ABS (anti-lock braking system).

Unlike the majority of motorcycle ABS set-ups, this system has the advantage of ensuring a more natural braking ‘feel’ for the rider.

The Monster 696 ABS is equipped with ABS, the single seat cover and the neat micro-bikini fairing.

Headlight

The triple-parabola headlight on the Monster utilises the latest optical technology and advanced construction techniques to provide an incredibly compact lighting package. In spite of its compact size, the headlight throws a broad and deep beam to provide excellent visibility and make night riding safer. Viewed from the side, its discrete silhouette mimics the radical shape of the fuel tank.

Instrumentation

Visually simple digital instrumentation provides an array of data on command or, at a glance, just speed and revs. Information available at your fingertip include: scheduled maintenance warning, oil temperature, trip odometer, lap time, fuel reserve, warning light for low oil pressure, turn signals, over-rev warning, immobilizer and neutral warning light.

M696+

The 696+ is a factory-personalised model featuring some neat designer touches to help you stand out from the crowd. A beautiful single seat cover creates the clean look of a racing seat. The cover easily unclips to allow room for your favourite passenger while the neat micro-bikini fairing adds a custom touch to the front end.

DDA Ready

The instrument display also doubles as a control panel for the activation of the Ducati Data Analyser (DDA) system, which is available as an accessory from Ducati Performance. The bike has been built ‘system-ready’ for the data acquisition kit, which consists of special DDA software and a memory key that slots into a plug under the seat. The same plug also doubles as the connection for a handy new battery charger available as an accessory from Ducati Performance.

Adjustable Levers

The new user-friendly brake and clutch with 4-point adjustable levers provide easy-to-reach control for all hand sizes.

LED tailight

An LED rear light unit satisfies the minimalist, weight-saving design ethos found throughout the Monster 696. The specially designed strip of LED are enhanced by a special diffuser lens to deliver outstanding light clarity and incredible longevity.

For the Monster 1100EVO, even the license plate light uses LED technology.

20th Anniversary

Logo Ducati 1986

The Ducati Monster 20th Anniversary series is enhanced by the original style of the Ducati logo introduced in 1986, which appears in clear view on the tank, along with the name Monster, it too with a markedly vintage taste.

Original Livery

The Monster 20th Anniversary models have the same colours with which the Monster 900 was presented in Cologne in the autumn of 1992: the tank and seat cover rigorously in Ducati Red are matched with the bronze-coloured frame; the vintage style is completed by the champagne-coloured fork sleeves, by the golden Brembo braking system and by the chrome finish of the headlight. The many light-grey details of the engine and chassis are also a tribute to the first version of the Monster.

90s Style wing mirrors

The celebration of Monster's twentieth anniversary is all about the details. The Monster 20th Anniversary models feature the original wing mirrors, with their unmistakable 90s look, the same ones that were fitted of the first Monster.

20th Anniversary

The Monster has revolutionized the world of motorcycling, becoming more than just a simple motorcycle: it's a way of life, it's what makes its riders feel unique. Its customised versions owned by 250,000 enthusiasts have made it a true and proper icon that transcends time. Twenty years after its birth, Ducati celebrates this symbol of style and personality, presenting a unique model: the very first one. An unmistakable style coupled with latest-generation performance: here's the Monster 20th Anniversary, the motorcycle that continues to write history.

Specifications

Quotes

Telegraph ---- "The chassis is equally effective, with high-quality suspension offering a firm and sporting, but fine, ride quality, accurate and neutral steering and good low-speed balance. It's a pity that the clutch's servo action makes it grabby when feeding in the drive gently, and the engagement point is a long way out in the lever's travel, which will be awkward for those with small hands. Both affect U-turn smoothness in particular, although the bike has a much tighter turning circle than old Monsters. You get used to the clutch, and if that's the price for the light lever action then so be it, but it could be more novice-friendly. Gear selection is a touch heavy, as well."

Totalmotorcycle ---- "With its thin waistline and wide handlebars, the Monster 696 provides unrivalled ergonomics, striking a carefully designed balance between performance and everyday usability that will appeal to a wide range of riders. Sport-derived chassis technology and the proven power and flexibility of the legendary Ducati L-Twin engine, make the Monster 696 as comfortable in city traffic as on the open road. Enhancing the "less-ismore" philosophy that has made the Monster a global legend, the Monster 696 continues to redefine expectations. Every finely engineered element of the chassis and engine is on display, allowing its true beauty to be showcased for all to see."

Autoevolution ---- "This milestone in design and individuality has also set the performance trends in the streetfighter class and now promises to carry on its majestic heritage. The 2013 anniversary 696 Monster comes with a bronze frame and grey swingarm, in beautiful contrast with the vivid red color and the '86 old Ducati logo. "