Ducati Monster 1200 S (2017-2021): A Timeless Italian Beast Reimagined

Introduction

The Ducati Monster 1200 S isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a declaration. From its snarling L-twin engine to its razor-sharp handling, this machine embodies Ducati’s relentless pursuit of blending raw performance with streetfighter charisma. Produced between 2017 and 2021, the Monster 1200 S represents a refined evolution of Ducati’s iconic naked bike formula. Having spent time with this Italian stallion, I can confidently say it’s a motorcycle that demands attention, rewards skill, and leaves an indelible mark on your riding psyche. Let’s dissect what makes this generation of the Monster 1200 S a modern classic.

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Design & Ergonomics: Minimalism Meets Menace

The Monster 1200 S is a masterclass in balancing aggression with sophistication. The exposed trellis frame—a Ducati hallmark—serves as both structural artwork and a visual reminder of the bike’s lightweight ethos. Paired with the single-sided swingarm and Y-shaped alloy wheels, the design screams purposeful engineering.

Key highlights:
- Color schemes: Ducati Red (a signature hue), Liquid Concrete Grey, Star White, and stealthy Black options. The red frame accents on darker models are a delicious touch.
- Seat: The 785–810 mm (30.9–31.9 in) seat height accommodates most riders, though taller riders might crave more legroom during long hauls. The stepped dual seat is firm but supportive, emphasizing sporty intent over plush touring comfort.
- TFT Display: The 4.3-inch color screen is crisp and intuitive, offering riding modes, gear position, and lean-angle data. It feels premium even by today’s standards.

The riding position is classic naked bike: upright bars with a slight forward lean, pegs set mid-rear for control during aggressive cornering. At 211–213 kg (465–470 lbs) wet, it’s surprisingly manageable at low speeds, though the wide tank can feel bulky for shorter riders.

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Engine & Performance: The Heart of the Beast

The 1198cc Testastretta 11° L-twin is the star here. With 147 HP (107 kW) @ 9,250 RPM and 124 Nm (91.5 lb-ft) @ 7,750 RPM, this engine is a study in controlled violence. Ducati’s Desmodromic valve system ensures razor-sharp throttle response, while the slipper clutch keeps rear-wheel hop in check during aggressive downshifts.

Riding impressions:
- Low-end grunt: Torque arrives early, with a meaty pull from 3,000 RPM. The Monster lunges forward with urgency, yet remains tractable in urban settings.
- Top-end scream: Past 7,000 RPM, the engine transforms into a howling crescendo. The 2-1-2 exhaust barks with a metallic snarl that’s pure Ducati theater.
- Fuel efficiency: At 5.2 L/100 km (45 mpg), range hovers around 300 km (186 miles) from the 16.5L tank. Not class-leading, but acceptable for a performance-oriented machine.

The ride-by-wire throttle delivers precision, though Sport mode can feel overly aggressive for rain-soaked roads. Urban and Touring modes soften the power curve, making the bike surprisingly docile in traffic.

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Chassis & Handling: Surgical Precision

Ducati’s trellis frame and premium suspension components give the Monster 1200 S a telepathic connection to the pavement.

Key specs:
- Front suspension: 43mm Öhlins/Kayaba USD forks (fully adjustable)
- Rear suspension: Öhlins/Sachs monoshock (adjustable preload/rebound)
- Brakes: Dual 320mm front discs with Brembo M4.32 calipers; single 245mm rear disc

On the road:
- Flickability: The 1485–1511 mm (58.5–59.5 in) wheelbase and 23.3–24.3° rake strike a perfect balance between stability and agility. Transitioning through switchbacks feels effortless.
- Braking: Initial bite from the Brembos is fierce but progressive. ABS intervention is seamless, even under hard braking.
- Tires: The 120/70-ZR17 front and 190/55-ZR17 rear Pirelli Diablo Rosso IIIs offer tenacious grip, communicating every nuance of the road.

The Monster isn’t just fast—it’s engaging. You’ll find yourself hunting for corners just to experience the tactile feedback from the chassis.

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Electronics & Features: Smarter Than It Looks

The Monster 1200 S packs a suite of rider aids that enhance confidence without dulling the experience:
- Riding modes: Sport, Touring, Urban (adjusts power, throttle response, and traction control)
- Ducati Safety Pack: Cornering ABS, 8-level traction control
- Quick-shifter (optional): Up/down shifts are buttery smooth at full tilt

The electronics are unintrusive, letting you flirt with the limits while keeping safety nets taut. The TFT display’s layout is intuitive, though navigating menus at speed requires practice.

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Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

The Monster 1200 S faces stiff rivals in the hyper-naked segment. Here’s how it compares:

1. Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS

• Pros: More refined engine, superior mid-range torque, customizable dash
• Cons: Heavier (198 kg dry), less visceral character
• Verdict: The Triumph is a better all-rounder, but the Ducati thrills harder.

2. Yamaha MT-10

• Pros: Crossplane CP4 engine soundtrack, lower cost
• Cons: Softer suspension, less premium feel
• Verdict: The MT-10 is a bargain brute, but lacks the Monster’s Italian flair.

3. BMW S1000R

• Pros: 165 HP inline-four, advanced electronics
• Cons: Sterile personality, higher seat height
• Verdict: The BMW is faster on paper, but the Ducati delivers more soul.

Conclusion: The Monster 1200 S isn’t the most powerful or tech-laden bike in its class—but it’s the one that’ll make your pulse race every time you twist the throttle.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive

Owning a Ducati requires commitment, but the Monster 1200 S is relatively low-maintenance for a premium Italian machine. Key considerations:

1. Desmo Service Intervals

• Valve clearance checks: Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles). Expect ~€800–€1,200 depending on labor rates.
• Tip: Use MOTOPARTS.store’s valve shim kits for DIY enthusiasts.

2. Fluids & Filters

• Engine oil: 3.9L of SAE 15W-50 every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
• Coolant: Replace every 2 years. Ducati recommends ethylene glycol-based coolant.

3. Chain & Sprockets

• The 15/41 sprocket combo and 106-link chain require regular cleaning. Upgrade to a DID X-ring chain for longevity.

4. Brake Maintenance

• DOT 4 fluid changes every 2 years. Swap pads for sintered variants (Brembo SP compatible) for track-day readiness.

5. Suspension Tuning

• Rebuild Öhlins/Sachs shocks every 40,000 km (25,000 miles). MOTOPARTS.store offers seal kits and fork oil.

6. Exhaust Upgrades

• The stock Euro 4-compliant cans are heavy. Slash 5+ kg with a Termignoni or Akrapovič slip-on (check local noise laws!).

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Final Verdict: Why the Monster 1200 S Still Matters

The Ducati Monster 1200 S is a motorcycle that transcends specs. It’s about the way the engine vibrates through the bars at idle, the way the chassis dances beneath you, and the way strangers ask, “What is that?” at every gas stop. While newer models have since eclipsed it in tech, the 2017–2021 Monster 1200 S remains a compelling choice for riders who value analog thrills in a digital age.

Whether you’re carving canyons or dominating city streets, this Ducati delivers an experience that’s equal parts exhilarating and addictive. And when it’s time to personalize or maintain your machine, MOTOPARTS.store has the expertise and parts to keep your Monster roaring for years to come.

Ride hard, service regularly, and let the legend live on.

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Specifications sheet

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