The 2026 Ducati Monster: Lighter, Smarter, Still Pure
The covers have come off the 2026 Ducati Monster, the fifth generation of the Bologna-built naked that first saw the light of day in 1992. Three decades on, Ducati says the Monster remains a benchmark for combining Italian style, performance and simplicity – and the latest version looks set to carry that tradition forward.
A New Chapter for an Icon
The 2026 Monster debuts an all-new 90° V2 engine with Intake Variable Timing (IVT), producing a claimed 82kW (111hp) at 9000rpm and more than 80 per cent of peak torque between 4000 and 10,000rpm. Lighter than the outgoing Testastretta Evoluzione by almost 6kg, the new powerplant promises stronger low- and midrange response while extending maintenance intervals to a class-leading 45,000km for valve clearance checks.
Lighter and More Agile
Weighing in at just 175kg (wet), the Monster features a lightweight monocoque frame, double-sided aluminium swingarm and a trellis-style technopolymer subframe. Showa suspension components – a 43mm USD fork and monoshock – are tuned for comfort and sporty precision, while Brembo M4.32 radial calipers and Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres ensure strong braking and grip.
Ergonomics have been revised with a lower 815mm seat (775mm optional), higher ’bar and a narrower waist to improve comfort and control. The styling nods back to the original 1992 design, with a muscular tank, minimalist tail and signature round LED headlight that now carries Ducati’s twin ‘C’ light signature.
Tech and Equipment
A full suite of rider aids comes standard, managed through a six-axis IMU and a 5-inch TFT display. Features include cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, engine brake control, and four Riding Modes – Sport, Road, Urban and Wet – accessed via a new petal-style joystick. The dash supports the Ducati Multimedia System and turn-by-turn navigation.
Customisation and Variants
Ducati will offer a wide range of official accessories, including carbon-fibre trim, billet aluminium parts and Termignoni silencers, while the Monster+ variant adds a passenger seat cowl and flyscreen. Two colour options will be available – Ducati Red and Iceberg White – and both models will also come in a 35kW LAMS-legal version.
Availability
The new Monster will roll out globally from early 2026 and will land in Australia in April, priced form $20,400 ride away.
For more information check out the Ducati Australia website or see the launch video here.
