Market Position:
The Ducati Monster 800 Dark ie (M800) represented an accessible entry-point into Ducati's iconic Monster naked bike family. The 'Dark' variant typically featured a matte black finish and slightly more minimalist styling, appealing to riders seeking performance with understated aesthetics.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other mid-displacement naked bikes from Japanese and European manufacturers, offering a distinct Italian flair, a torquey V-twin engine character, and Ducati's performance heritage.
Key Features:
L-Twin engine, steel trellis frame, sophisticated desmodromic valve actuation, distinctive naked styling, and the unmistakable Ducati riding experience.
Model Positioning:
Positioned as a performance-oriented, stylish naked motorcycle with a focus on character and handling over outright power, making it a popular choice for urban riding and spirited weekend outings.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Clutch, Transmission, Frame, Suspension (Front and Rear), Brakes (Front and Rear), Wheels, Tires, Electrical System, Lighting, Instruments, Bodywork, Seat, Handlebars, Exhaust System, Cooling System (Air-Cooled), Fasteners.
Chassis Components:
Frame, swingarm, steering head, footpegs, levers, handlebars, seat, fuel tank, fenders, side covers.
Braking System Components:
Front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake discs, brake levers, brake pedals.
Procedures Included:
Identification of all original Ducati parts and their associated manufacturer part numbers. Visual exploded diagrams for each system and sub-assembly. Assembly order and relationships between parts. Component referencing for ordering replacement parts.
Component Identification:
Accurate part numbers for every individual component, including fasteners, seals, gaskets, and small fittings.
Assembly Diagrams:
Detailed exploded view diagrams illustrating the correct order and orientation of parts during assembly or disassembly.
Technical Depth:
Essential for mechanics and owners to accurately identify and order replacement parts. Provides the foundational knowledge for any mechanical work.
Electrical System Components
Electrical System Components:
Wiring harness, battery, starter motor, alternator, ignition coils, regulators, fuses, relays, switches, lighting units (headlight, taillight, turn signals), horn, instrument panel.
Engine Components:
Cylinder heads, cylinders, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, desmodromic valve train components, oil pump, oil filter housing, engine casings, timing belts.
Fuel System Components:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body assembly.
Transmission Components:
Gearbox shafts, gears, shift drum, shift forks, clutch basket, clutch plates, pressure plate, transmission bearings.
Suspension Components:
Front forks (sliders, stanchions, springs, damping rods), rear shock absorber (spring, damper, linkage components).
Wheels And Tires:
Front and rear wheel rims, spokes (if applicable), hubs, bearings, tire sizes, valve stems.
Exhaust System Components
Exhaust System Components:
Exhaust headers, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, mounting hardware.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled L-Twin (90° V-twin), Desmodromic 4-valve per cylinder
Displacement:
803 cc (803 cm³)
Bore X Stroke:
94 mm x 71.5 mm
Valve Actuation:
Desmodromic
Horsepower:
Approximately 73 hp @ 8,000 rpm (claimed)
Torque:
Approximately 71 Nm (52 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection), 38mm throttle body
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-50, API SG, JASO MA
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.5 liters (with filter change)
Engine Cooling System:
Forced air cooling
Desmo Valve Check Interval:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 24 months
Oil And Filter Change Interval:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Chain And Sprockets Inspection:
Regularly, adjust tension every 6,000 km (3,750 miles)
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 15W-50, API SG, JASO MA (e.g., Motul 3000 Plus 20W-50 or similar)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Clutch Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (shared with brakes)
Known Issues:
Desmodromic valve adjustments can be labor-intensive. Potential for electrical connector corrosion in humid environments. Clutch slave cylinder seals can leak. Early models may have had slight fueling issues at low RPMs. Regular maintenance is crucial for longevity.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Ducati Part No. 444.1.013.1A (or equivalent aftermarket, e.g., HiFlofiltro HF153)
Air Filter Part Number:
Ducati Part No. 426.1.009.2A (or equivalent, e.g., K&N RU-2970)
Spark Plug Part Number:
NGK CR9EK (or equivalent)