MCN Review 2001

DUCATI Monster M900 (1993-2001)

Ducati struck gold with the M900, assembling a winning formula with a bit from here, a bit from there. It defined a whole new genre of motorcycle. Neither a sports bike nor a tourer, perhaps its nearest equivalents were cult bikes such as Harleys or V-Maxes.
Parts were gathered from four donor models to create the first Monster: the engine was the air/oil-cooled two-valve unit from the 900SS, the steel trellis frame had seen service in the 851/888 Superbike racers and still remains competitive; while the suspension is from the dated 750SS.
Such an eclectic approach to components served two purposes: development costs were kept to a minimum, while the pedigree of a frame that had won three consecutive World Superbike titles guaranteed the basis of a fine-handling bike.
The was a Matt black Dark version and the sportier S. The S model builds in changes that make it even better on the wine-bar run, while the new bikini fairing improves comfort on longer rides and enhances the already striking good looks.
Earlier models were jerkier than spiders on cocaine, snatching at the chain in the lower gears but the latest retune all but eliminates this. Smaller valves, softer profile cams and a remapped ignition system smooth everything out and make the S much more pleasant around town.