Ducati Monster Plus (2021) Review: A Lighter, Meaner Naked Beast Reimagined

When Ducati decided to strip back the legacy of the Monster lineup and rebuild it with a modern twist, they gave birth to the 2021 Ducati Monster Plus. Gone is the signature trellis frame—controversial, yes—but what replaces it is an all-new vision of the Italian naked sportbike. This iteration isn’t just about evolution—it’s a revolution in the world of middleweight streetfighters.

The Monster name carries heritage. Since 1993, it has stood as Ducati’s gateway drug—raw, aggressive, yet manageable. With the 2021 Monster Plus, Ducati took a bold step to modernize a legend without losing its soul.

Ducati Monster Plus (2021) – Customizable Parts & Upgrades

Design and Aesthetics

The new Monster Plus wears its attitude unapologetically. It’s lean, stripped-down, and aggressively styled with sharp lines and a minimalist silhouette that screams performance. Ducati ditched the traditional trellis frame in favor of an aluminum front frame derived from the Panigale V4. The result? A weight loss of over 18 kilograms compared to the previous Monster 821, making it significantly more nimble.

It’s available in Ducati Red, Aviator Grey with a red frame, and Dark Stealth with a black frame—each giving off a distinct personality. The compact LED headlight with a signature DRL, muscular fuel tank, and tail tidy complete the sporty aesthetics.

Technology and Features

Ducati has loaded the 2021 Monster Plus with modern tech, making it one of the most advanced in its class. Riders get three ride modes—Sport, Touring, and Urban—customizable via a crisp 4.3-inch TFT display.

You also have cornering ABS, lean-sensitive traction control, wheelie control, launch control, and the aforementioned quick shifter. The display is intuitive, with smartphone integration options available for added convenience. The tech here doesn’t overwhelm but instead complements the ride, offering performance with confidence.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Designed with rider comfort in mind, the seat sits at 820 mm, with a narrower midsection making it easier to flat-foot at stops. The upright riding posture and wide handlebars offer a relaxed yet commanding feel. Long rides are surprisingly comfortable, thanks to the reworked saddle and revised footpeg placement.

The suspension setup—a 43 mm non-adjustable USD front fork and preload-adjustable rear shock—absorbs urban bumps while staying firm enough for spirited cornering. It strikes a sweet spot for both comfort and aggression.

Braking and Safety

Equipped with Brembo M4.32 monobloc calipers gripping twin 320 mm discs up front and a single 245 mm disc at the rear, the stopping power is sharp and confidence-inspiring. Paired with cornering ABS and multiple levels of intervention, it’s safe to say that braking is one of the Monster Plus’ strongest suits.

Even under emergency braking, the system stays predictable and well-balanced, giving riders extra peace of mind.

Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance

The Monster Plus is impressively fuel-efficient for a sporty twin-cylinder. Expect around 17-20 km/l, depending on riding style. With a 14-liter fuel tank, it offers decent range for daily use and short tours.

Maintenance is where Ducati has really improved over the years. The valve clearance service interval is stretched to 30,000 km, and the overall maintenance cost has been optimized. Riders looking for aftermarket parts like oil filters, performance air filters, or chain and sprocket kits can easily find high-quality upgrades that enhance longevity and performance—especially from brands like CNC Racing and Evotech Performance, available through select Ducati accessory shops.

Engine and Performance

Underneath the sculpted bodywork lies a 937 cc Testastretta 11° L-twin engine, pushing out 111 horsepower at 9,250 rpm and 93 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. It’s the same powerhouse used in the Supersport 950, offering refined grunt with linear delivery—perfect for both city sprints and spirited canyon rides.

The throttle response is sharp, yet predictable. Acceleration is brisk, and the revised chassis makes slicing through traffic or leaning into corners feel intuitive. With a top speed that comfortably crosses the 200 km/h mark and a six-speed gearbox mated to a standard up/down quick shifter, the Monster Plus turns everyday commutes into adrenaline-filled experiences.

Whether you’re tearing up urban streets or enjoying weekend twisties, this bike delivers a balanced mix of sportiness and everyday usability.

Comparison and Competitors

In the middleweight naked category, the 2021 Monster Plus squares off against the Yamaha MT-09, Kawasaki Z900, and Triumph Street Triple R. While the MT-09 offers more power and the Z900 a more aggressive price tag, the Ducati strikes a unique balance between Italian flair, refined engineering, and cutting-edge technology.

Its premium finish, agile handling, and minimalist design give it a distinct edge in style-conscious rider circles.

Ideal Riders and Target Audience

The Ducati Monster Plus (2021) is built for those who want everyday usability wrapped in sportbike excitement. It’s ideal for:

• Urban riders who value lightweight agility

• Intermediate riders looking to upgrade from a beginner bike

• Style-driven motorcyclists who want Italian performance with a modern look

Whether you're carving up city streets or blasting through backroads, the Monster Plus won’t disappoint.

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Conclusion and Final Verdict

The 2021 Ducati Monster Plus isn’t just a new chapter—it’s a bold new book in the Monster saga. With reduced weight, improved ergonomics, advanced electronics, and a fresh modern design, it embodies Ducati’s vision for the modern naked sportbike.

While some purists may miss the old trellis frame, what you get in return is a bike that’s faster, more agile, and loaded with intelligent features. For riders seeking performance, design, and everyday rideability with a dose of Ducati DNA, the Monster Plus is a no-brainer.

If you already own one or are planning to, consider elevating your experience with aftermarket accessories like tail tidies, frame sliders, or adjustable rearsets—available now in our motorcycle parts store. Precision-built gear not only enhances performance but also adds a personal touch to your Monster.