Ripped, shredded and oh-so-mean, this is the latest in a long and celebrated line of Monsters from Ducati. While it looks like there is nothing more than wheels, engine and attitude, this dark one has 6-axis IMU, a 111hp V2 engine with variable valve timing and 45,000km service intervals. Hung from an aluminium monocoque frame and suspended by Showa suspension, it is maximum monster for the minimalist. Everything you need, nothing more but absolutely nothing less.
MOTO GUZZI HOPE YOU ENJOY THE TRIP
Labelled‘ The Trip 500’, it is not, as you might expect, painted in vivid fluoro colours. It has no paisley stickers and is not bedecked in 70s style. No, this is about their brand-new LAMS legal offering that sees a significant departure from tradition. With bodywork that is a deliberate nod to the stunning V100 Mondello, this new kid features a 457cc powerplant seconded from another Piaggio family member. With an already proven engine, the new Trip 500 promises a lively ride from the 180kg lean machine. A new class for the iconic brand in recent times, it actually fulfills a gap that Moto Guzzi was once a player in, albeit with the more recognisable V configuration. The bright new kid from the company borrows a bunch of tech from its larger siblings, giving rider modes etc, just like the big guns. Official release is this week at EICMA, so no firm times and prices here yet but it sure looks the business for anyone hunting for a classy middle weight, irrespective of licence progress and LAMS requirements. Italian style, LAMS legal, yum.