Few build a naked bike with more personality and bad boy sport attitude than Ducati with its Monster. Throughout its 23-year history, the Monster has become the rowdy but lovable face of the Italian brand. This spring, Ducati writes a new chapter of speed with its R-spec 1200 ($18,695 in red).

The ‘R’ expands on the original water-cooled Monster 1200 concept with a few key enhancements. It continues to utilize the Multistrada-spec Testastretta engine, but thinner crankcase-to-cylinder gaskets boost cylinder compression ratio by a half point. The L-Twin flows more fuel and air via larger 56mm diameter throttle bodies (versus the S model’s 53mm set-up).

On the exhaust end there’s 8mm larger diameter header pipes, and a new set of shotgun-style mufflers that not only push more spent gasses, but looks slimmer and more aesthetically pleasing, too. Stricter Euro 4 emissions and noise compliance was also factored in. A special piston coating and redesigned clutch cover complement the change and also help reduce engine clamor.
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