Ducati Monster 821 in the top test

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Ducati Monster 821 in the top test

A crowd-puller even while standing

This is a tradition at Ducati: after the people’s mouths have been made watery with a top model, the somewhat more simply equipped smaller offshoot is pushed in. After Monster 1200 now the Ducati Monster 821.

One thing doesn’t work at all: with the D.ucati Monster 821 go unnoticed. Even when the vehicle is stationary, it acts like a magnet to passers-by, with its contrast of the bright white tank and the glowing red frame, plus the bold, upwardly sloping double-barreled exhaust pipes in matt black. And when she comes to life at the latest, the undivided attention of those around belongs to her. Even when idling, the Duc shoots so heartily that you involuntarily want to check whether you have forgotten the silencer inserts in the factory. But more about the sound later.

Ducati Monster 821 in the top test

A crowd-puller even while standing

Monster 821 shares the rudimentary frame and tank bench line with the 1200 Monster. That she wears that 821 cm³ eleven-degree Testastretta, which has already garnered a lot of merits in the Hypermotard and is certainly one of the most successful Ducati engines of the recent past, makes things really interesting.

Injection system from Ducati Monster 1200

However, the V2 experienced minor changes. Its crankshaft now rotates in plain bearings, which minimizes friction losses. In addition, the Monster 1200’s injection system with 53 throttle valves (Hypermotard: 52 mm) prepared the mixture. She sits in a newly designed airbox. This saves installation height and creates space for the 17.5 liter tank. So where is the Ducati Monster 821, which is placed between the big Monster 1200 and the small, air-cooled 696 and 796 that it inherits?

Get in the saddle. As with the Monster 1200, the driver now sits 40 millimeters closer than the air-cooled monsters to the tubular steel handlebars, which are also 40 millimeters higher and are mounted in rubber blocks. With the upper body slightly bent forward, the typical monster feeling still results, but the sitting posture is now much more harmonious than with the monsters 696 and 796. And those who mourn the small, air-cooled monsters may be comforted by a look at the vehicle documents Ducati Monster 821. 107 hp are there. These are not quite the full-bodied 112 hp proclaimed in Ducati’s own logic, but still more than enough to have a say in their class.

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Ducati Monster 821 in the driving report

Water-cooled little monsters

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Ducati Monster 821 with slipper clutch

In addition, the 821 is a very sophisticated fellow. The clutch is nice and easy, could only have a more precise pressure point. It has an anti-hopping mechanism for this. Even after a cool, damp night, the twin starts without any problems, clears its throat after a few hundred meters and runs smoothly in the lower gears from just over 2000 rpm.

The Ducati Monster 821 has three driving programs: Sport, Touring and Urban. With a biting and direct response, traction control (TC) on the sharp level two of eight and the ABS on level one, you can explore the limits of what is feasible without stoppie detection. Touring lets the V2 accelerate more gently, regulate the TC (level 4) a little earlier and largely suppress the ABS in level two stoppies. For the gentler there is also Urban with power reduced to 75 PS, TC at level six and earlier regulating ABS (level three), which keeps the rear wheel firmly on the ground.

It is a matter of honor that all modes can be changed individually, albeit very laboriously. Sport mode is required on the country road. After all, you want to fully enjoy the dynamics of the V2. And first of all, he is not ragged. 3000 rpm, a short, quick turn of the electronic throttle, and the power almost bursts out of the V2. It almost seems as if the ride-by-wire is tearing the throttle valve wide open, and the Ducati Monster 821 snaps forward. So the Ducati looks extremely exhilarated in the first start. Which is underlined by the hearty pounding out of the angled end bags – which, by the way, it doesn’t rain into. The Ducati engineers are real virtuosos when it comes to handling exhaust flaps and noise levels. How else could such a sound carpet overcome the approval hurdle?

Krummer heats up the right leg

In the city it takes a bit of getting used to the throttle hand to tame this first eruptive performance by a gentle turn of the gas. Otherwise it can happen that the powerful use of power when carelessly turning the gas pushes the driver with the Ducati Monster 821 further into the intersection or the small gap than he actually wanted. The touring mode is undoubtedly less stressful in the city, especially in rush hour. And the lascivious sizzling in push mode is a constant companion anyway – as is the heat from the manifold from the standing cylinder, which really heats up the right leg. So quickly back to the country road.

With a measured 107 hp, the 821 engine stands well in the drilling. That is a good 10 hp more than even the 1100 Monster pressed, compared to the 796 it is even 20 more. At low speeds, the twin hums and thumps, accompanied by the soft whistling of the toothed belt, increasing to angry hammering at high speeds without the vibrations becoming unpleasant. From 6000 rpm it becomes really energetic and turns like the two-valve engines never could.

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Ducati Monster 821 and Kawasaki Z 800 in the test

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From 5500 rpm the V2 really blooms

But even if the spontaneous cracking of the engine when opening the throttle for the first time gives the impression of bearish pulling power, the Ducati Monster 821 does not swing the really big hammer in the lower half of the speed. Which is why it does not achieve the pulling power of the Hypermotard equipped with the same engine. And there are reasons. For one thing, the monster weighs nine kilos more than a Hypermotard. On the other hand, it does not have the bearish starting torque and full torque curve in the important range between 4000 and 7000 rpm. But the 821 also appeals to the Monster with its successful mass balancing and smoothness. Assuming that the chain is correctly tensioned, no load changes chop the round line when applying the gas in hairpin bends.

From 5500 rpm the V2 really blooms, hangs greedily on the gas, lively and roaring up the speed ladder and bristling with sporty zest for action. The extremely gentle traction control of the Ducati Monster 821 ensures that it doesn’t end in the ditch at the end of the curve. And those who head too quickly into a curve in the heat of the moment can rely on the enormously gripping Brembo monoblock pliers in the front wheel. to whom one can at most reproach the perceptible free travel on the hand lever and thus no optimal controllability. During the parforcer ride over winding stretches, the brakes suddenly grab when you suddenly grip the brakes. The result is a fork that plunges far in and the machine can be felt to stand up, which dampens the flow of the curve dance.

Otherwise, the Ducati Monster 821 can wag around bends very well, even if the heels hit the wide arms of the pillion pegs as soon as the driver puts his feet back on the pegs, in order to protect the tips of the boots from contact with the asphalt on large slopes. In the subject of neutrality, apart from the aforementioned positioning, she hardly shows any nakedness. The Bridgestone S20 in special specification do an excellent job. The Monster is still stable at a high pace. However, the comfort is reduced by the poorly responsive fork and the shock absorber, which is overdamped in the rebound stage, which takes away the smoothness of proper cornering and tarnishes the precision at corner exit a little. Whining at a high level, sure. It is more essential that the Ducati Monster 821 does not hit the hook like a rabbit or even falls into an inclined position by itself, but comes up with predictable, clear handling. Which adds another piece of the mosaic to the image of the sociable country road runabout.

4.3 liters consumption, 400 kilometers range

There is even a decent pillion seat under the neat seat cover. Although the seat falls slightly backwards, which gives little support, the passenger is otherwise quite relaxed. Chassis and brakes cope with pillion operation without complaint. And the driver also feels comfortably accommodated on the Ducati Monster 821, although the seat hollow might allow tall drivers a little more freedom of movement. 181 kilograms of payload are not the world, but at least leave some room for the luggage. The possibilities for its accommodation are limited. After all, there are four straps under the seat where a roll of luggage can be lashed to the pillion seat.

The reserve light reminds you to go to the gas pump. The display of the Ducati Monster 821 offers neither gear nor remaining range display, but otherwise provides all the necessary information and is easy to read. The tank volume of 17.5 liters can be easily used up without the tedious gurgling of fuel. The consumption display in the cockpit is a bit too optimistic with 3.8 liters. But even 4.3 liters go through as quite moderate. That’s enough for around 400 kilometers and thus for an extended Sunday trip.

The bench can be positioned 30 mm lower

The joy about it is only clouded by gasoline, which pushes through the tank cap seal when the tank is full to the brim and detaches the unpainted tank sticker. Which, together with the somewhat loveless tangle of cables under the engine, tarnishes the impression that the Ducati Monster 821 is otherwise good workmanship. Because even if it doesn’t show up with goodies such as oil coolers, single-sided swing arms or forged wheels, it looks solidly made and like a piece. The bench seat can be positioned 30 millimeters lower, and large, stable axles and proper chain tensioners are pleasing.

The bottom line is that the youngest member of the Monster family stands above its air-cooled predecessors in terms of driving behavior and motor, which new Monsterists should also appreciate, especially since a 48-hp version of the Ducati Monster 821 is also available. In this respect, the signs are good for a successful continuation of the monster story.

Technical data Monster 821

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Pictures: Ducati Monster 821 in the top test

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fork

no setting options 
Air pressure 2.5 bar Strut Rebound fully open Slack with driver 35 millimeters Air pressure 2.5 bar

Noticed

positive

  • The driving modes can be easily selected using the indicator switch while driving.
  • The castle nuts for changing the spring preload on the strut are easily accessible without getting bloody knuckles.
  • Angle valves make air pressure control much easier.

negative

  • The oil filler neck is difficult to access because of the bend of the upright cylinder.
  • Although the tank has a hinge, it cannot be folded up without the use of tools.
  • Rust was already showing on the heads of the burnished screws on the ignition lock cover after a rainy night.

MOTORCYCLE measurements

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Pictures: Ducati Monster 821 in the top test

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* Manufacturer information

consumption

Country road 4.5 l / 100 km
at 130 km / h 4.8 l / 100 km
theoretical range country road  389 km
Fuel type Great

mass and weight

L / W / H 2019/850/1230 mm
Seat height 800-830 mm mm
Handlebar height 1040 mm
Turning circle 6600 mm
Weight with a full tank 209 kg
Payload 181 kg
Wheel load distribution v / h  48.8 / 51.2%

Driving dynamics

Handling course I (fast slalom)
Lap time 20.0 sec
Reference Street Triple 19.4 sec
Vmax at the measuring point 108.2 km / h
Reference Street Triple 120.5 km / h

The Ducati rushes steadily through the fast course. At the reversal point, the rear brake must be used to stabilize in order to avoid tipping into it. Top value.

Handling course II (slow slalom)
Lap time 27.9 sec
Reference Street Triple 27.3 sec
Vmax at the measuring point 56.4 km / h
Reference Street Triple 55.9 km / h

Here, too, the Ducati Monster 821 drives stably and precisely around the pylons. Very large inclines can be driven. Hence the high speed and good time result.

Circular path (Ø 46 meters)
Lap time 10.6 sec
Reference Street Triple  10.2 sec
Vmax at the measuring point 53.6 km / h
Reference Street Triple 55.9 km / h

When driving around the circular path, the Ducati Monster 821 becomes a bit restless over the transverse joints. The chassis could respond a little better. The speed must be reduced slightly.

engine

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The engine performance of the different Ducati models.

The 821 cm³ Testastretta in the Ducati Monster 821 achieves its maximum performance later than in the Hypermotard, which – clearly recognizable – delivers the more powerful torque in the lower and middle speed range and thus also the better pulling power. The smoothness and ease of rotation of the monster drive are excellent. Sixth gear can be used from as little as 2500 rpm or a good 70 km / h.

Brakes

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The braking performance of the Ducati Monster 821.

In touring and especially in sport mode, the Bosch 9MP ABS controls at the limit of what is possible and provides excellent braking distances. Even though the driver has to tame the rising rear wheel alone, at least in sport mode with ABS on level 1. But even the urban mode (ABS level 3) allows very short braking distances of 38.2 m and keeps the Ducati Monster 821 bomb- proof on the ground.

Scoring and conclusion

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Pictures: Ducati Monster 821 in the top test

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engine

Maximum
score  		Ducati
Monster 821
Draft 40 29
acceleration 40 29
Top speed 30th 18th
Engine characteristics  30th 20th
Responsiveness 20th 13
Load change 20th 14th
Smoothness 20th 11
coupling 10 7th
circuit 20th 12th
Gear ratio 10 9
Start 10 8th
total 250 170

Regardless of whether it is pulling, accelerating or top speed, the Ducati Monster 821 hangs the red lantern on its air-cooled predecessors everywhere. How successful mass balance and flywheel mass are with this drive can be seen in the chapter on smooth running, one of the great strengths of the 821. In terms of load changes, too, the V2 shows a good nursery. The transmission, on the other hand, shifts a bit bony, especially when searching for idle. The smooth-running APTC clutch, which effectively prevents a stamping rear wheel, knows how to please. Only its pressure point should be a little more precise.

landing gear

Maximum
score 
Ducati
Monster 821
Handiness 40 29
Stability in turns 40 27
Steering behavior 40 26th
feedback 10 7th
Inclined position 20th 19th
Straight-line stability 20th 14th
Suspension tuning in front 20th 11
Chassis set-up at the rear  20th 12th
Adjustment options undercarriage  10 2
Suspension comfort 10 5
Driving behavior with a passenger 20th 14th
total 250 166

Even if it is not the handiest in its class, there is no effort to enjoy swinging corners. Those who like to ride an attack on their home route will, however, want a slightly tighter damping and better response for the fork and complain about the slight understeer at the exit of the bend. But otherwise the Ducati Monster 821 pleases over large areas with balanced handling and good roadholding. She also masters top speed without any problems – just like a pillion passenger. However, the stiff shock absorber does not allow better grades in the comfort section.

everyday life

Maximum
score 
Ducati
Monster 821
Ergonomics driver 40 25th
Ergonomics pillion 20th 8th
Windbreak 20th 0
view 20th 11
light 20th 11
Furnishing 30th 18th
Handling / maintenance  30th 19th
Luggage storage 10 2
Payload 10 4th
Tidy 30th 24
processing 20th 13
total 250 135

The sitting position is still typical of a monster, with the upper body slightly bent and the handlebars straight. Not uncomfortable. In this way, you can also enjoy the decent range on extended tours. However, the 181 kilos payload and the luggage storage options are average at best. Half of your elbows prevent you from looking back in the vibrating mirrors. The passenger will find an acceptable place for this. Overall, the Ducati Monster 821 scores much more powerfully than the Monster 796 in this chapter.

security

Maximum
score 
Ducati
Monster 821
Braking effect 40 32
Brake metering 30th 22nd
Braking with a passenger / fading  20th 14th
Righting moment when braking  10 6th
ABS function 20th 13
Handlebar slapping 20th 12th
Ground clearance 10 8th
total 150 107

The Brembo stoppers monitored by a Bosch ABS stand out with excellent deceleration values, which do not give way to the load of an additional passenger. The controllability should be better, however, and the braking power should be more linear to the leverage. The Ducati Monster 821 twitches its handlebars only on heavy bumps.

costs

Maximum
score 
Ducati
Monster 821
guarantee
 30th 17th
Consumption (country road) 
30th 22nd
Inspection costs
 20th 18th
Maintenance costs
 20th 9
total
 100
 66

An oil change every 15,000 kilometers, and valve clearance checked every 30,000 kilometers – that’s easy on the wallet. Just like the favorable consumption of 4.3 liters.

Overall rating

Maximum
score 
Ducati
Monster 821
Overall rating 1000 644
Price-performance note   1.0 1.9

The cost price is not exactly low, but the Ducatista gets something for the money. And the Ducati Monster 821 a good grade.

Conclusion

Even when water-cooled, the little monster is still a real monster. With rough edges, a bit more adapted and with excellent electronic driving aids, but not mainstream. You have to adjust to them a little. She is still one face in the crowd, not sanded smooth and washed soft. And that’s why it’s very emotional. However, enjoying the Ducati Monster 821 is not cheap.

Ducati Monster 696 and 796

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Three-spoke wheels and two-sided swing arm are the distinguishing features of the smallest monster, the 696, which rolls at the front on a 120/60 that has gone out of fashion

Entry into the monster world and thus into the Ducati family is available for less than 10,000 euros. Monster 696 and 796 make it possible – still. Because their replacement has already entered the stage in the form of the Monster 821.

The Monster series is known as powerful and original. Which in this respect was also shaped by the air-cooled, high-torque two-valve engines. In terms of performance, however, they were limited. For those who are really hungry for performance, Ducati launched the monster types S4, S4R and S4RS with the water-cooled Superbike engines from 916 to 998. But where the look of coolers and hoses at least took some getting used to. Whereas the air-cooled engines were and are also very well suited as basic and entry-level engines. A role that is now assigned to 696 and 796. The part of the power department is now taken over by the eleven-degree Testastretta engines in the Monster 1200 and 821.

The radiator and hoses are laid more discreetly than on the S4 models, and optically come much closer to the air-cooled types. For those who don’t want to do without cooling fins or who feel well dressed with 80 or 87 hp, the inexpensive Monster 696 and 796 are available. Yet. Because they are no longer being built, the existing stocks are still being sold while stocks last. This means that inexpensive entry-level models under 10,000 euros are no longer part of the Ducati range. And entry into the Ducati world begins at 108 hp – for the time being.

Of course, the 821 Ducati Monster 821 is available in an entry-level 48 hp version, but newcomers will appreciate the low seat height and the low weight of the air-cooled model. After all, they weigh almost 20 kilograms less than the 821. In terms of performance, they don’t come close to the 821, but there are supposed to be people who like to do without a few horses in favor of low weight. And in the case of the 796, there are even single-sided swing arms and filigree five-spoke wheels. Not to mention the feeling of driving one of the most historic engines in Ducati history.

However, the air-cooled will not completely disappear from the picture. The scrambler already in the starting blocks will probably be fired by an 800 two-valve engine.

Used Ducati Monster 696 on markt.motorradonline.de

Used Ducati Monster 796 on markt.motorradonline.de

Ducati Monster 821 offers in Germany

1000PS marketplace app

Used Ducati Monster 821 are available in large numbers.

With its performance, the Ducati Monster 821 positions itself in the middle segment of the Monster model series, and accordingly its price on the used market. The first models start at attractive prices and the selection is diverse. Here is a current price comparison: used Ducati Monster 821 in Germany.

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