2012Ducati Monster 796

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The 2012 Ducati Monster 796 is an accessible naked bike designed for riders seeking authentic Italian character without excessive complexity. Its lightweight 167kg frame, manageable 800mm seat height, and responsive handling make it ideal for both beginners and experienced riders wanting nimble urban performance. Known for its minimalist styling and punchy mid-range power, the Monster 796 delivers classic Ducati appeal in an approachable package.

Capacity: 803.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 167.0 kg
Seat height: 800 mm
Power: 85.8 HP (63.1 kW) @ 8250 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering82%

City riding78%

Daily riding68%

Touring38%

Two-up45%

Track55%

Best for: A versatile naked roadster designed for spirited weekend rides, twisty backroads, and everyday urban riding.
Built for: Delivers the classic Ducati air-cooled V-twin experience with strong midrange torque, a raw mechanical feel, and agile, flickable handling.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders seeking long-distance touring comfort, wind protection, or genuine off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 800mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2012 Ducati Monster 796, with a relaxed knee angle of around 120 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 803.0 ccm
Power: 85.8 HP (63.1 kW) @ 8250 RPM
EPA Certificate No.: CDUCC.800NMS-006
EPA CO Emissions: 1.3 CO g/km
Torque: 58.0 Nm (5.9 kgf-m) @ 6250 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.5138 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 88.0 x 66.0 mm
Compression: 11.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: APTC wet multiplate with hydraulic control

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1450 mm
Overall length: 2114 mm
Overall width: 784 mm
Overall height: 1079 mm
Seat height: 800 mm
Dry weight: 167.0 kg
Wet weight: 187.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 15.00 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Tubular steel Trellis frame
Front suspension: Marzocchi 43mm upside-down forks
Rear suspension: Progressive linkage with preload and rebound Sachs adjustable monoshock
Front wheel travel: 120 mm
Rear wheel travel: 148 mm
Rake (fork angle): 24.0°
Trail: 87 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. Optional Anti-Lock braking
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 245 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre: 180/55-ZR17

Other

Color options: Red/black, Arctic white silk/red/black), Diamond black silk/red/black, Various Monster Art colours paint.
Warranty: 24

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2010	2011	2012	2013	2014
Capacity	803 cc	803 cc	803 cc	803 cc	803 cc
Dry weight	167 kg	167 kg	167 kg	167 kg	167 kg
Seat height	800 mm	800 mm	800 mm	800 mm	800 mm
Fuel capacity	15 L	15 L	15 L	15 L	15 L