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| Archives - Production Motorcycles |
Bike Review: 2007 Ducati Monster 695 - From RoadBike June 2006
Welcome To The Family The 2007 Monster 695 will replace the 620 as the entry point to the Ducati Monster family. Aimed at novice riders, the newest Monster promises sporty performance and handling, backed up with hooligan looks. The all-new 695cc L-twin has a bigger bore and reduced stroke compared with the 620, offering two benefits: one, the larger combustion chamber allows larger intake and exhaust valves, which improves flow and increases power; two, the lower piston speeds improve reliability. A Magneti Marelli ECU manages the fuel injection, ensuring smooth power delivery. The new motor also delivers the highest power output per cc of any air-cooled Ducati motor. Where the 620 offered 63 hp and 41 ft-lbs. of torque, the 695 offers 73 hp and 45 ft-lbs. Helping to put that power to the ground is Ducati’s Adler Power Torque Clutch, a slipper-type system that helps reduce rear wheel chatter on deceleration and downshifts, and also provides a lighter clutch pull. The 695 also sports the traditional twin mufflers with that familiar throaty note. An oxygen sensor, two catalytic converters, and the advanced electronics work together to ensure that the system meets the new Euro3 emissions standards. Chassis highlights include the trademark trellis frame, Marzocchi 43mm inverted forks, a Sachs rear shock with adjustable spring preload and rebound damping, and the lowest seat height yet on a Monster (30.3"). High-quality Brembo units make up the brakes: up front, two 300mm floating discs and twin-piston calipers; in back, a single 245mm disc with a fixed twin-piston caliper.
Continuing the minimalist theme of previous Monsters, the new 695 has an even cleaner look around the frame and engine. Many electrical wires and connectors have been hidden, eliminating the need for wire ties. And a number of components are now matte black, including the swingarm, footpeg brackets, and engine and clutch cases. Black wheels complete the look, coming with all three color schemes: Ducati Red with a red frame, Glossy Black with a red frame, and Matte Black with a matte black frame. The 695 is also distinguished by new graphics, mostly subtle changes in logo design. But you won’t miss the red, white, and green at the back of each side cover, proudly proclaiming the bike’s national heritage. Look for the 695 at US dealerships in June. RB TECH SHEET LIST PRICE $7,495 ENGINE 695cc L-twin VALVETRAIN Desmodromic, two valves per cylinder BORE x STROKE 88 x 57.2mm COMPRESSION 10.5:1 FUEL SYSTEM Marelli EFI with 45mm throttle bodies MFR HP RATING 73 at 8500 rpm MFR TORQUE RATING 45 ft-lbs. at 6750 rpm TRANSMISSION Six-speed FINAL DRIVE Chain WHEELBASE 56.7" RAKE 24 degrees SEAT HEIGHT 30.3" FUEL CAPACITY 3.6 gallons DRY WEIGHT 370 pounds |
