Ducati Monster 2021 vs. Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018

The Ducati Monster 2021 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 are both naked bikes that offer powerful performance and advanced rider assistance systems. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the Ducati Monster 2021 is equipped with a V2 engine that produces 111 HP of power and 93 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 features an in-line three-cylinder engine with slightly higher power output at 115 HP, but lower torque at 87.5 Nm. Both bikes have fuel injection systems, liquid cooling, and similar displacements of 937ccm for the Ducati and 847ccm for the Yamaha.

When it comes to suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspensions with monoshocks at the rear. The Ducati Monster 2021 uses Marzocchi forks, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 features Kayaba forks. The rear suspension of both bikes can be adjusted, with the Ducati offering preload adjustment and the Yamaha offering compression, preload, and rebound adjustments.

Ducati Monster 2021

In terms of chassis, both bikes have aluminum frames, but the Ducati Monster 2021 has a load-bearing engine frame, while the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 has a twin-tube frame. Both bikes have double disk brakes at the front, with the Ducati having larger 320mm diameter disks compared to the Yamaha's 298mm disks.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the Ducati Monster 2021 offers a comprehensive package including riding modes, cornering ABS, launch control, ride by wire, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. On the other hand, the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 offers ABS, traction control, and a quickshifter.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have similar front and rear tire widths and diameters, as well as wheelbases. The seat height is also the same at 820mm. However, the Ducati Monster 2021 is slightly lighter with a kerb weight of 188kg compared to the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018's 193kg. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of 14 liters.

In terms of equipment, the Ducati Monster 2021 features LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018, on the other hand, only has LED headlights.

Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018

In terms of strengths, the Ducati Monster 2021 offers a powerful V2 engine with lots of power from low revs, a comprehensive electronics package, a quickshifter as standard, neutral handling, and a great combination of riding fun and practicality. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018, on the other hand, boasts an incredibly powerful three-cylinder engine, good brakes, a sporty and comfortable seating position, ABS, traction control, and a shift assistant.

In terms of weaknesses, the Ducati Monster 2021's chassis could benefit from more finesse considering its price range. The Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 has a high saddle, a shift assistant that is only for upshifting, and instruments that do not stand out strongly from the basic version.

Overall, both the Ducati Monster 2021 and the Yamaha MT-09 SP 2018 offer impressive performance and advanced features. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preferences and priorities.