2002 Ducati reviews

This bike fully lives up to its hype. The ergonomics are barely acceptable until you ride it on a track (or curvy road) - when it all makes sense, and becomes "invisible". Ridden above 8/10's, it's a very symbiotic experience. Below that, you're on your own. The engine is totally linear and flexible. Huge ability to out accelerate almost anything coming off of turns because it is so tractable. The clutch may be "talkative", but it's been totally reliable so far. Brakes are fantastic, but after a couple of track days, there are huge improvements to be made by a thorough fluid flush and fresh HH+ pads. At times when you think you've reached their capacity to slow you, just squeeze harder and they'll produce. Can be a bit tempermental starting in very cold weather, but show me a highly-tuned exotic car that isn't. Might be a by-product of an open exhaust and computer, too. This is definitely the pinnacle of design for Ducati since the '70s. Though not ugly, the 999 series just doesn't capture the same passion. The price is (out)dated ergonomics and instruments. I still haven't felt any 999 envy - even seing the "R" models released stateside. Show less

The bike has 2k mikes on it so far. I have test driven some of the other bikes brands (new '04s). I can't say that any delivered the same fun-to-drive feeling. I live in a hilly area with lots of winding roads. This bike has been nothing but joy. Bottom line, it looks good and feels good, and is very easy to ride. It is a real confidence booster - it follows the rider commands no matter how tight the curves. Show less

After a long period of indecision between the Ducati Monster and the Kawasaki Z1000 I finally made a decision. At first I wanted the Ducati, then I heard a few ugly things about them, and decided to look elsewhere toward the Z1000. The Z1000 is faster and has a nice array of after market items, but the colors are horrible. The Ducati is slower and less comfortable but the design is superb, and the handling is incredible. It was a tough choice, but I don't regret going with the Ducati. Some people say the engine is underpowered, but I strongly disagree. Low and midrange perform well within, if not surpassing, the region of acceptability. However, it does top out around 120-125mph, so do not expect to keep up with your friend's GSX-R. Then again for what it's worth, I think it's worth a whole lot more than other bikes, and so will the women checking you out as you fly by. Show less

After some time of contemplating a bike in the Ducati class, I decided after returning from Laguna Seca that as life was not getting any longer, and I had to make my move. The good folks at at my dealership located me a red 998. Holy Red Devil!! This bike rides with surgical precision, and the power is indescribably delicious... I have a new addiction, and am a self admitted speed freak. This bike is the ultimate rush! Show less

If I said all I wanted to say, I would be writing a 5000 word essay. This bike rocks, maybe not the fastest bike out there, but hey, we are riding on normal roads with speed limits. The handling is phenomenal, power is fantatstic, & the riding position is agressive enough without killing you. With some additional acessories, (ie Performance carbon cans & & few other mods) , it looks great & sounds just as well. Once you get a Duc , you will never go back. Show less

After almost two years of ownership I must say this is the best bike I've ever owned (by far). The confidence inspiring handling and awesome powerband put other sportbikes to shame while it's all day comfort will have you smiling at the end of a long and sporting day. For gobbling up the miles and making smiles appear there is no better tool. Show less

The only bad thing about this bike is that it makes me think about the next Ducati I'll get.Fantastic Show less

The Monster was my first bike ever and I love it. I have never been on a bike before and since I bought this bike, I have had no problems. Just because I am saying that this is a great starter bike doesn't mean you will get bored with it. I have had it for over a year now and I have not got anywhere near being bored with it, yet. I highly doubt I will either........ If you don't have a Ducati Monster yet, get it or get a bigger and faster Ducati... I feel that the guys with the Japanese bikes will be following you. Show less

This is a great bike. I had a 800s and totaled it, an i am so glad. I was disappointed w/ the power of the 800, but the 101hp of the S4 is plenty. I almost flipped it yesterday. Anyway, great bike. Not much on top end, but who wants to go 140 on a bike anyway. Lots of torque, Lots. Love this bike!! Show less

I am 40 years old and bought this bike as my first bike in December 2001. I got over 8000 miles on it and never get to tired to ride my Monster. Soon I will be upgrading to one of the Superbikes, but I will never sell my Ducati Monster. She is a beauty and a lot of fun to ride. Show less