Ducati Monster Plus (2021) Review: The Naked Icon, Reinvented

When Ducati decided to strip the Monster back to its core for 2021, it wasn’t just about weight savings or a new look—it was about reimagining what a naked street bike could be. The Ducati Monster Plus (2021) takes the spirit of the original Monster—raw, simple, and thrilling—and injects it with modern tech, sharper performance, and a whole new attitude.

Launched as a leaner and smarter successor to its predecessors, this Monster ditches the traditional trellis frame and bulky styling for a more refined yet aggressive stance. It’s a bold evolution of a bike that’s already legendary in the naked class—and Ducati nailed it.

Ducati Monster 937 / 950 / Plus (2021 – ) Spare Parts Collections

Design and Aesthetics

First impressions? Minimalist, muscular, and unmistakably Ducati. The Monster Plus retains the core silhouette of its lineage, but the tubular steel trellis frame is gone, replaced by a Panigale-style aluminum front frame, making the bike more compact and agile-looking. The tapered tank, full-LED lighting, and short tail section give it a streetfighter vibe, while still feeling refined.

It comes in three striking color schemes: Ducati Red, Aviator Grey, and Dark Stealth—each giving the Monster Plus its own flavor. The redesigned 4.3-inch TFT display blends seamlessly into the minimalist cockpit, and details like the smoked fly screen and passenger seat cover (exclusive to the “Plus” trim) complete the look.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the 2021 Monster Plus is Ducati’s 937cc Testastretta 11° L-twin engine, shared with bikes like the Hypermotard 950. It punches out 111 horsepower at 9,250 rpm and 69 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm, delivered with a satisfying mix of low-end grunt and high-rev zing.

Engine and Performance

Twist the throttle, and the Monster Plus surges forward with urgency but not aggression. The wet weight of just 414 pounds contributes to its nimbleness, making urban slicing and weekend canyon carving effortless. Ducati’s quickshifter, both up and down, comes standard, and it's silky smooth—ideal for spirited riding and daily commutes alike.

This isn’t a bike that overwhelms; instead, it rewards skill, responds intuitively, and makes every ride feel alive.

Technology and Features

Ducati didn’t hold back on electronics here. You get three riding modes (Sport, Urban, Touring), each customizable through the bright TFT display. Cornering ABS, traction control, and wheelie control are all adjustable via the intuitive left switchgear.

The Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) system works flawlessly, especially paired with the slipper clutch for smooth downshifts. You also get launch control, which feels like overkill on a naked streetbike—but hey, we’re not complaining. Connectivity options are limited compared to touring bikes, but for its class, the Monster Plus covers all the essentials.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Ducati made huge strides in comfort with the 2021 Monster redesign. The seat height is a manageable 32.3 inches (lowered options available), and the handlebars are now closer to the rider, improving posture and reducing fatigue during longer rides.

The suspension setup—a 43mm non-adjustable USD front fork and preload-adjustable rear shock—delivers a balance between sporty stiffness and real-world compliance. It's not a plush ride, but it doesn't punish either. This bike is clearly tuned for spirited road riding rather than full-day touring, but it holds its own on extended commutes.

Braking and Safety

The Monster Plus comes equipped with Brembo M4.32 radial monobloc calipers and dual 320mm front discs, with a 245mm rear—backed by Bosch cornering ABS. The braking power is exceptional, predictable, and confidence-inspiring in both dry and wet conditions.

The safety suite is rounded out with adjustable traction and wheelie control, ensuring the bike remains planted and composed even when pushing hard or riding on imperfect surfaces.

Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance

For a Ducati, the Monster Plus is surprisingly frugal. You can expect about 44-50 mpg, depending on how heavy your throttle hand is. The 4.2-gallon tank offers decent range for city riders or short trips between fill-ups.

On the maintenance side, Ducati’s longer service intervals (9,000 miles for oil changes, 18,000 for valve checks) are a welcome shift for budget-conscious owners. Still, it’s worth investing in quality spare parts and accessories to keep it running flawlessly—and luckily, plenty are available for this model.

Comparison and Competitors

In the middleweight naked category, the Monster Plus faces stiff competition from the likes of the Yamaha MT-09, Triumph Street Triple RS, and KTM 890 Duke. While the MT-09 is more affordable and the Street Triple edges it on track performance, the Ducati offers a perfect blend of Italian style, street-savvy performance, and tech that makes it feel special.

It may not dominate on spec sheets alone, but the Monster Plus wins in emotional appeal and all-around livability.

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Ideal Riders and Target Audience

The Ducati Monster Plus (2021) is perfect for:

  • Intermediate riders seeking a stylish and powerful streetbike that’s easy to live with.

  • Experienced riders wanting a lighter Ducati for daily rides or city blasts.

  • Enthusiasts looking for a customizable naked bike with loads of character and tech.

Conclusion and Final Verdict

The 2021 Ducati Monster Plus is a return to form with a modern twist. It keeps the core Monster DNA—accessible power, minimalist design, and city-ready agility—while shedding unnecessary weight and embracing cutting-edge rider aids. It’s not the most extreme naked bike out there, but it might be the most well-rounded.

Whether you’re commuting, carving twisties, or upgrading your garage with your first Ducati, the Monster Plus delivers a deeply satisfying ride. And if you're looking to make it truly your own, explore our curated collection of high-performance motorcycle parts and accessories tailored specifically for the Monster lineup. From aftermarket exhaust systems to carbon fiber fairings, we've got the upgrades that turn your Monster into a beast.

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