Ducati Monster 1200 S 2019 — Specifications

When Ducati decides to revisit its Monster 1200 S, we naturally expect the reference version, the one that justifies the high price. And the price, indeed, leaves no doubt about Bologna’s ambitions: €17,390 for a naked bike places the machine in a category where excuses are not permitted. Facing a BMW S 1000 R, an Aprilia Tuono V4 1100, or a KTM Superduke 1290, the Ducati Monster 1200 S cannot afford to stumble.

What immediately distinguishes the S version from its little sister is the suspension. The gold Öhlins tubes at the front are not just for show: a fully adjustable 43 mm inverted fork works in concert with an Öhlins mono-shock at the rear, also fully adjustable. The monocoque aluminum swingarm receives this preferential treatment, and it’s noticeable from the first curves. Four-piston Brembo M50 calipers on 330 mm floating discs add a braking precision more commonly associated with a circuit superbike than a high-road roadster. In short, the Ducati Monster 1200 S technical specifications reveal a level of equipment that few competitors can claim at this size.

The 11° Testastretta DS V2 of 1198 cc develops 147 horsepower at 9250 rpm and 124 Nm at 7750 rpm. These figures are identical to those of the standard Monster 1200 after the 2019 model year revision, which ruffled the feathers of some purists accustomed to the power gap that previously existed between the two versions. Nevertheless, 147 horsepower in 185 kg dry weight is a muscular proposition, especially on a trellis frame that attaches the cylinders directly to the fixing points. The wheelbase of 1485 mm and the reworked geometry for this model year contribute to increased agility when entering corners. The six-speed gearbox equipped with an up-and-down shifter facilitates acceleration without cutting the throttle. On the open road, the announced top speed of 250 km/h remains theoretical, but the low and mid range are more than sufficient to make a statement.

Ducati has dressed all of this with substantial electronics: three riding modes, traction control on eight levels, wheelie control also on eight positions, and cornering ABS managed by an IMU inertial unit. For enthusiasts of the Ducati Monster 1200 S forum who are looking for a recent example, this 2019 model year probably represents the most accomplished version of this generation, before the Monster radically changed its philosophy by switching to a perimeter aluminum frame. The carbon fiber front fender, the Y-spoke three-branch wheels, and the DRL daytime running lights complete the S equipment, details that recall that this motorcycle is aimed at a rider who doesn’t want to choose between Sunday roads and track days. With a 16.5-liter tank and a consumption announced at 5.2 liters per 100 km, the range exceeds 300 km, which is honest for an engine of this caliber.

The problem with the Ducati Monster 1200 S price is precisely that price. At almost €17,400, it’s far from an accessible motorcycle, and the competition offers equally performant machines with network warranties that are sometimes more reassuring. Ducati Monster 1200 S forum aficionados know that the reliability of recent generations has improved, but maintenance at a Ducati dealership remains a budget line to anticipate. For those dreaming of a high-performance twin tailored for versatile use, piloting with a Termignoni exhaust instead of the original silencer, and accepting the looks of passersby at every red light, this Monster S remains a difficult-to-ignore proposition. It’s not perfect, it’s expensive, and it embraces both without complex.