The Monster 1100 EVO, which the Italian motorcycle maker unveiled earlier this year at the New York Motorcycle Show, has extra power than some earlier models, but also has electronics designed to rein in that power when its necessary.
The new bike comes with what Ducati calls the Safety Pack, which includes grip control and anti lock brakes.
Such safety devices are rare on sport bikes and essential “naked” machines like the Monster.
The latest Monster is also part of a push by the bike maker to grab a bigger share of several motorcycle market segments.
The company last year rolled out a redesigned Multistrada sport touring model and unveiled the Diavel, a muscular cruiser style model that newly went on sale.
While some motorcycle makers including BMW, Honda and Harley-Davidson have presented anti-lock brakes for years, the feature is still rare on bikes even though it has become all but de rigueur for cars.
By making the safety devices standard equipment on the new Monster, Ducati is applying force to rivals who want to attract new customers and tone down the dangerous image of motorcycling.
The Monster 1100 EVO starts at $11,995, so safety does not come cheap. However, the bike is less expensive than most motorcycles with anti lock braking system.
