Yamaha MT-09 vs Ducati Monster
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Yamaha MT-09 and Ducati Monster are among the most cross-shopped naked bikes of 2026. The Yamaha MT-09 undercuts the Ducati Monster by about $2,396, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Yamaha MT-09 leads on power with 119 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
Our pickYamaha
Yamaha MT-09
Ducati
Ducati MonsterThe verdict
The Yamaha MT-09 edges it overall at 8.6/10, but the Ducati Monster wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Ducati Monster
111 hp.
Yamaha MT-09
119 hp and 0.62 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Yamaha MT-09
Our 8.6/10 at $10,599, the most bike per dollar.
Ducati Monster
188 kg with an 820 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Yamaha MT-09
Our top score in this matchup at 8.6/10.
Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.
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Yamaha MT-09 vs Ducati Monster: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Yamaha MT-09 or the Ducati Monster?
The Yamaha MT-09 makes the most power at 119 hp and 93 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Yamaha MT-09 or the Ducati Monster?
The Yamaha MT-09 is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $10,599.
Which is lighter, the Yamaha MT-09 or the Ducati Monster?
The Ducati Monster is the lightest at 188 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the Yamaha MT-09 or the Ducati Monster?
For a new rider we'd point to the Ducati Monster: 111 hp and 188 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
