2008 Ducati Monster 696

With its Monster 696 Ducati is aiming at big sales from those who want the Italian lines but don't need the top-shelf performance and pricetag from the 1098.In style and performance, the Monster 696 does exactly what it needs to do, give owners a beautiful machine that is also capable out on the weekend joy rides.They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but what kind of crotchety beholder would find the sleek Monster 696 an ugly beast?Do you have to be a mod 20- or 30-something with a full head of hair to appreciate the Monster 696? Our test rider, who is neither, says no!The lightweight Monster 696 won't disappoint out on the road, with the Showa suspension and Brembo brakes delivering solid performanceOne flaw in the Monster 696 design is the amount of heat coming off the underseat exhaust, with the temps making a potential pillion ride a hot one.Not forgetting the largest growing demographic in motorcycling, Ducati's Monster 696 has a light weight and low seat height for the lady riders out there.