Ducati will soon be releasing the 2007 Ducati Monster 695, availability is said to be April 2006. It will be replacing the Monster 620 as the entry level Ducati. Lots of changes and upgrades for this new model and there are accessories to go along with the 695 including a fairing and seat cover, an engine performance kit and an 80’s helmet and jacket.
Complete details and press release:
DUCATI MONSTER 695
695 is not merely a name, a number or an engine size. 695 represents a most unique offering in the world of motorcycles and in the Ducati Monster family; it is a motorcycle that is welcoming to novice riders but, at the same time, is a Ducati, delivering a level of performance that can even thrill more advanced riders.
While remaining the entry point to the Ducati Monster family of motorcycles, the Ducati Monster 695 transforms a motorcyclist into a Ducatista.
Ducatisti are members of a tribe of fans whose motorcycle looks, feels and sounds like no other.
The Monster 695, a preview of the Model Year 2007, replaces the 620, and is a quantum leap forward in terms of handling, riding pleasure and performance. The potent new 695 cc L-Twin delivers much greater horsepower and torque – the highest output per cc of any Ducati air-cooled engine – while producing smoother and more fluid power, making every twist of the throttle exciting and satisfying.
The Engine
The engine of the 695 is the most important technical advancement, and much more than an additional 77 cc of displacement might indicate. The new L-Twin delivers new levels of horsepower and torque, but maintains a smooth and fluid power delivery that ensures an exciting performance in all conditions.
The 695’s increase in displacement was achieved with the application of an even more ‘over-square’ design compared to the 620. The enlargement of the cylinder bore from 80mm to 88mm and the reduction in the stroke from 61.5mm to 57.2mm results in a larger combustion chamber which allows the use of larger intake and exhaust valves, as well as 17% lower piston speeds for greater reliability.
The 620’s intake and exhaust valves were 41 mm and 35 mm respectively, while the 695 boasts 43mm and 38mm valves. The larger valves and seats are matched to larger ports with the net result being improved flow capabilities and increased power. Although the valve faces are larger in diameter, the valves remain light thanks to the change to 7mm valve stems, as used in our Testastretta engines, versus the 8mm stems of the 620.
The end result is that the 63 horsepower of the 620 has been increased to 73HP for the 695, the highest output per cubic centimetre of all our Ducati air-cooled engines. Of course there is a significant increase in torque from the already impressive 5.7Kgm of the 620, to an outstanding 6.2Kgm for the 695.
The Monster 695 takes full advantage of the Ducati exclusive Adler Power Torque Clutch, a unique system that makes the 695 even friendlier, safer and more comfortable. It provides an amazingly light clutch pull that is a true benefit especially in urban riding, where frequent stops require frequent clutch use.
Another advantage of the ‘slipper’ clutch, typically found on race bikes, is that it reduces the destabilizing rear wheel “lock-up” or “chatter” phenomenon when downshifting abruptly or inelegantly. It also benefits advanced riders, and racers alike, for the very same reasons.
Exhaust system
The Monster 695’s two traditional aluminium oval silencers are combined with advanced features of a new exhaust system.
A lambda (oxygen) sensor has been employed on the horizontal exhaust manifold, and this, combined with advanced electronic fuel injection, managed by a powerful Magneti Marelli 5AM ECU, guarantees an optimal air/fuel ratio in ever-changing conditions.
Two larger catalytic converters manufactured with more advanced materials are housed inside the two silencers.
The combination of the lambda sensor, the new catalytic converters and advanced electronics allow the 695 to responsibly adhere to the tough new Euro3 emission standards.
Of course standard equipment includes the uniquely beautiful and throaty Ducati exhaust note. The unmistakable sound is music to the ears of Ducatisti – a symphony of internal combustion.
Chassis
The new engine clearly needs to be mated to a similarly advanced frame, and the Monster 695 takes full advantage of the confidence-inspiring road-holding and stability of the unique Ducati trellis frame design. The Trellis frame is light, rigid and beautiful, and distinctively Ducati.
The rider’s environment on the 695 is a perfect mix of sporting character and a confident upright rider position that allows optimal control and comfort. Every Monster 695 rider will feel perfectly at ease thanks to Ducati’s lowest seat height, which is 30 mm lower than all other Monsters.
The Monster 695 sports quality Marzocchi 43 mm inverted forks and a Sachs rear shock with adjustable spring preload and rebound damping.
At the front, the 695 employs a Brembo braking system made up of two 300 mm floating discs, together with floating twin-piston calipers. The single 245 mm rear disc sports a fixed twin-piston Brembo caliper.
Instrument panel
As on every model in the Monster family, the electronic dash is multi-functional, allowing the rider to switch to either the oil temperature or clock readout even while riding.
It is also possible to dim the instrument’s illumination should they be too intense during night riding.
The odometer and trip metre readings are indicated on a LCD. An anti-theft system is standard equipment, and its status is displayed on the instrument panel.
A new look and finish
The Monster 695 introduces new graphics and appealing new colour treatments in line with its increased performance.
The trellis frame and engine area has a new ‘clean’ and uncluttered look, as electrical wires and connectors have been hidden, and the need for numerous wire ties has been eliminated. What’s left is the simple elegance of the trellis frame surrounding the potent new 695 engine.
Three different colour schemes are available with the 695:
* traditional Ducati Red, with red frame and black wheels
* aggressive Glossy Black, with red frame and black wheels
* distinctive Matte Black, with matte black frame and black wheels
At the front end of the bike, the upper and lower fork crowns, along with the lower fork caliper mounts, disc carriers and headlamp support, formerly raw aluminium in colour, are now matte black. The high performance theme is further extended to the rear of the bike with a black swingarm and footpeg brackets. Both engine and clutch cases are also now black, a classic racer ‘look’ just recently reintroduced on the Sport Classic series. The black theme is finally harmonized with matte black wheels to complete this new Monster’s attitude.
New graphics include a subtle colour change to the Ducati logo on the fuel tank with the subdued silver of the 620 now realized in a bolder pure white for the 695. The side covers have the word ‘Monster’ in a much larger font, followed by an even more dominating ‘695’ to boldly proclaim the bike’s new found status. Also new is the application of the Italian “tricolore”, a flash of red, white and green at the back of each side cover, to proudly announce the 695’s national heritage.
Maintenance
Ongoing investment in the Ducati factory’s processes, machinery and training has reaped significant and quantifiable improvements in component reliability on every Ducati motorcycle. As a result, every new Monster 695 owner benefits from an extended, less frequent scheduled maintenance programme, which does not call for the first complete service until 12,000 Km (7,500 miles).
The Monster 695 is a most unique offering in the world of motorcycles — a motorcycle that is welcoming to novice riders, yet delivers a level of performance that can thrill advanced riders.
Just like the bike, the extensive range of accessories and apparel for the Ducati Monster 695 make every ride a more thrilling experience. Here are a few that are sure to please.
Fairing & seat cover
A colour matched fairing and seat cover add a sporting look to the 695 and also enhance every ride with improved wind protection. Both include all required mounting hardware and make installation simple.
Engine Performance Kit
The 695’s new engine boasts increased horsepower and torque, while also producing a smoother and more fluid power delivery. But even higher power lurks inside the 695 waiting to be released by the Ducati Engine Performance Kit. Termignoni carbon fibre silencers, a dedicated Marelli ECU and high efficiency air filter combine to unleash the 695’s full potential.
The 80’s helmet & jacket
The austere understated black and white themes of the 80’s jacket and helmet, combine with the classic Giugiaro Ducati logo to compliment the new ‘black’ colour palate of the Monster 695. The jacket is constructed of full grain leather by Dainese, the undisputed leader of quality and protection in motorcycle riding gear. The jacket enhances safety with protective inserts that are strategically placed in the elbow and shoulder areas. The 80’s helmet coordinates perfectly with the jacket’s colours and logos. Features like an advanced laminated composite fibre shell and an interior of comfortable hypoallergenic fabric make this helmet a smart safety and style choice.
todd says
“Entry level”? Give me a break! Next year they’ll turn it into a 798cc “entry level” monster. This is like saying an 850 moto guzzi LeMans or a kawasaki Z1, or a Mach 3 is an entry level bike. Entry level riders are not looking for more power. If they haven’t ridden the previous 620 how would they know or care if the 695 has more power? This all makes no sense to me. If ducati truly wanted to appeal to the entry level rider they would release their 400 monster in the US and price it somewhere south of $5000. That would attract more entry level riders (and a few advance such as myself) to their brand. Heck if you wanted more power out of a monster why not just get the 800 or the S4R? I seriously think manufacturers don’t understand what it takes to attract new riders. A new rider wants something that is light weight, easy to manage, no expensive fairings (in case they think they might drop it), forgiving, low cost, and doesn’t look like a Honda night hawk 250. If they want more power, they trade up when they’re ready. SHEESH!
-todd
hoyt says
Here’s my take…..there’s a fine line between “beginner bikes” and “entry level” bikes.
My “Beginner Bike” = 1970 Honda 350 — really wish i still had that!
My “Entry Level bike” = 1993 Suzuki Katana 600
Beginner bikes are those that you ride at safety courses (125 – 250 cc or used small, sub 500 cc “if-you-haven’t-lost-sense-of-self-preservation” bikes borrowed from a brother or friend). This is the bike you determine if this is a hobby worth pursuing.
Entry level bikes are your first real investment…taking that grin to a new level….buying the jacket, better helmet, etc. Suzuki SV, Ducati 620, Kawi parallel twin, etc.
david says
pick my 695 up tomorow, fab looking bike im leaving a large cruiser to buy what i think will be a much more useable machine,and superb value for money,idont think of it as entry level,or a novice bike its a ducati for gods sake,you get street cred for free.
Nolan says
After 10 months & 10,500 miles on a Suzuki S40 & being very tired of holding it wide open waiting on it to accelerate, I am looking for a real motorcycle. One that can stand running 75 or 80 MPH for an hour or so & can handle well in the corners. I weigh about 150, 5’6″ tall & hope someone can tell me if this machine is what I am looking for. OHHH for a HUGE lot , filled with different manufacturers stuff, waiting for a test ride & take one home. I wonder if BMW makes anything I need? I sure want it to not weigh like half a car! Or cost too much to fix it if it slides out on me,, guess I better make sure it doesn’t do that! I am really tired of draggin footpegs thru corners.. Nolan
Blackfoot says
My new 695 Monster is one week old and 300 miles young. As someone who’s been riding and tinkering with bikes for over ten years, I’ve had my eye on a small to mid-size monster for a long time, so the time was right. About to turn 30, I was hungry for something new, having outgrown my trusty Nighthawk 750. Plus, you only live once.
My reasons for choosing a NEW 695 MONSTER were: 1) I weigh 145 lbs, travel light, and like to go fast, 2) I’d rather ride the * out of something small than have to hold back on anything bigger, 3) the new design looks and performs better than the 620. 4) It was only $500 more than a new Honda 599. 5) My little voice whispered this was the one.
Its in the details where you notice the precision engineering. The instrument panel is easy to read, almost beautiful, and can be dimmed at night. The single head lamp is big, bright, and the wires neatly tucked away, wrapped in black cloth. Dual Brembos up front and one in the rear all have hydraulic, braided lines. The adjustable rear monoshock is easy to get to, as are the oil filter, spark plugs, battery, and air filter. The tank lifts up and can be propped open like the hood of a car, or removed entirely without any tools. Most noticeably, the paint and body work is classy, not flashy. Even details like the toolkit, gas cap, ignition, and foot pegs are worth admiring.
I was excited to see how the monster would handle on the hilly, narrow streets of Seattle, on cobblestones and hairpin turns. What sheer joy can I compare to the first ride? This is a motorcycle that growls, rumbles, barks and bites. It hugs the pavement and does exactly what you want it to without hesitation. Strong enough to pull hard throughout the rev meter and light enough to maneuver effortlessly. Even with a passenger, there’s plenty of poop. With a slight twist of the throttle, a low roar from the engine and shudder from the chassis sends you on your way. It might be a little rougher than what you’re used to but if you wanted something smooth and quiet, you’d be shopping for a Volvo instead of reading about Monsters.
Like other bikes with a tall first gear, you’ll either be shifting a lot between first and second, or chugging along at idle while you wait for traffic, but that’s not much of a complaint considering the clutch is super soft and shifting is a breeze. When you get onto the freeway, that same tall gearing sends you into triple digits without excessively high revs.
As many know, the forward riding position is not a sport bike crouch but a compromise between comfort and performance. Those accustomed to an upright riding position will need to resist the tendency to weight their arms. Pay attention to your feet, press down on the pegs and put your knees into the tank. Engaging the stomach muscles, too, will take the weight off your wrists and increase the feel of the front end, keeping throttle control and steering light and smooth.
My one complaint? Like all modern feather-weights, the stock passenger seat is worthless after 20 minutes. If you ride 2-up, adjust your budget for a mandatory upgrade. Also, the heat coming off the up-swept pipes will cook any scantily clad nymph, so have her dress appropriately.
Overall opinion? There are a couple more powerful mid-size naked bikes out there for less money than a Ducati, but none with this combination of ultra-light handling, killer looks, and distinctive V-twin soul. Used ones with low miles retain most of their value but are very hard to find. If you appreciate craftsmanship, quality, and bulletproof simplicity, you might build your own naked street fighter. But I don’t have the time or expertise. If I did, and cost wasn’t an option, my creation wouldn’t be that much different from the 695.
Astel says
My original 1995 M600 Is approaching 50K miles and i have thrashed her everyday to and from work, often leaving late and having to kane it through the traffic and fly down the motorway a good 122 miles a day. i have her serviced but otherwise do minor checks myself. she rides better now than ever and has become so much more faster. i can keep up even take out bigger bikes and if we’re stopped at the lights they are amazed she’s my baby 600 monster. i keep tellin everyone Italians dont use the word monster lightly, she is a flyer and even pops the front wheel in 3rd gear without trying, well just moving some weight back and dropping her into gear. 0-60 mph is around just under 4 seconds and thats no level entry bike. any new rider getting on my monster 600 would be left unable to hold on. if ducati have said that these M600, M620 and M695 are entry bikes it means entry to ducati. but there just having a laugh. Any real thrash rider will tell you, these bikes are cool looking and do the job up to around 120 mph just push the girl – don’t forget a bike needs to get used to being opened up, so after a while the engine changes.
For the record my last bike was a GSXR600 –
Astel HOLLAND
Chuck says
Well, here’s the story. I fell into the Harley money pit trap. Got out hevily scathed & half sick of the cost of doing business with the arrogants. Buy 5 quarts of oil & a filter from the dealer using HD brand synthetic & a chromed filter, you’ll understand.
Anyway I have been on 2 wheels since I could keep my balance, now at age 53 have come to appreciate the whole scene of motorcycles, usage of same & costs. From Monkeys, to PE’s to IT’s to TT’s to Bultaco’s to a Husqvarna ACC to a Maico Sand Spyder to Suzukis to Honda’s I have owned many many MotoX, Enduro’s & street bikes, & this is the one that get’s the most attention.
I have the 695 knowing that this unit has plenty of power and brakes,along with the look, sound and reliability I am after. When I bought my last MC, (Honda CB900) the Ducati dealer network was not as strong in US, now that has changed. Considered many models before deciding on the 695, & am glad I made the correct decision.
Loads of fun, great brakes & handling. It’s little underpowered stock compared to a 747, but does all I posess the talent for. I agree with Todd, It’s not the power it’s the talent. I have a friend, ex racer that could outride almost anyone on about any Hayabusa on a Rebel 250.
That my friends is what the 695 is all about.