By NastyNils·
Motorcycle comparison · Naked Bike
Moto Guzzi Breva 1200 (MY2007) vs Ducati Monster S2R 1000 (MY2006)
Into a bend with bags strapped on, the Moto Guzzi Breva 1200 doesn't rush its turn-in and holds a neutral line to the exit. The Ducati Monster S2R 1000 doesn't need more than a light nudge at the bars to tip in. Its front end's still reporting grip at the apex.
So which one do you buy?
The Breva 1200 has the edge if…
Traveling with luggage
Small edge: Breva 1200
On a multi-day trip, the Breva 1200 makes slightly more sense. Credit more range per tank and more comfort on long stints. Small difference, and the right luggage can close it.
The Monster S2R 1000 has the edge if…
Sporty riding on twisty roads
Narrow edge: Monster S2R 1000
Once the road starts to bend, the Monster S2R 1000 noses ahead. Thank more feel through the bars and harder acceleration for that. Your own skill counts for more than a gap this size.
What makes each one tick
Breva 1200
Deep and pulsing, the Breva 1200's air-cooled twin doesn't turn harsh in everyday riding. There's usable torque the moment the throttle opens, well down in the revs. Two-up through the Texas Hill Country, the chassis doesn't wander. The exhaust keeps singing.
Monster S2R 1000
Once the revs build, there's enough surge in the Monster S2R 1000's L-twin to pass in top gear. The brake lever hauls down 437 lb (198 kg) of trellis-framed twin. Rough pavement isn't so kind: the firm suspension kicks sharp jolts into the seat. Smooth asphalt sends it diving in.
The Voice of Experience
What actually separates them
- The Monster S2R 1000 has the lower wet weight: 437 lb (198 kg) vs 534 lb (242 kg).
- The Monster S2R 1000 makes more peak power: 95 hp (70 kW) vs 84 hp (62 kW).
- The Breva 1200 makes more peak torque: 74 lb-ft (100 Nm) vs 69 lb-ft (94 Nm).
Which one for the way you ride
Comfortable long-distance riding
Both fall short
Hours in the saddle won't flatter either of these. They're happier on shorter runs.
A confidence-building first motorcycle
Neither is a natural fit
Neither of these is a sensible first motorcycle. Learn on something smaller and lighter, then come back.
Don't look for a gap on commuting: there isn't one. Go by how each one fits you.
Who each one is built for
What's good, and what you'll live with
Breva 1200
What owners say
Strengths
- Smooth, characterful V-twin engine
Monster S2R 1000
What owners say
Strengths
- Engaging, sporty handling
- Iconic styling with premium chassis details
- Muscular mid-range torque delivery
- Refined, flexible engine with dual spark ignition
Trade-offs
- Firm suspension can overwhelm bumps
- Limited steering lock compromises low-speed agility
- Uncomfortable riding position and poor town manners
Known problems to check before you buy
Breva 1200
No confirmed faults on file yet. That's not the same as fault-free.
Monster S2R 1000
- Valve guide wear on early 2006 models Early production models suffered from premature valve guide wear, which can lead to oil consumption and irregular engine running.
- Fuel tank swelling and paint cracking The nylon fuel tank can absorb moisture from modern ethanol-blended fuels, causing expansion and cracks in the paint. Affected tanks may fail to fit properly on their mounts.
What they share
- Seat height
- 31.5 in (800 mm)
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Peak torque at
- 6,000 rpm
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Front tire
- 120/70-17
- Rear tire
- 180/55-17
Where the spec sheets split
| Breva 1200 | Monster S2R 1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Wet weight | 534 lb (242 kg) | 437 lb (198 kg) |
| Breva 1200 | Monster S2R 1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1151 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine | 90° V-twin | L-twin |
| Power | 84 hp (62 kW) | 95 hp (70 kW) |
| Peak power at | 7,800 rpm | 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 74 lb-ft (100 Nm) | 69 lb-ft (94 Nm) |
| Breva 1200 | Monster S2R 1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel capacity | 6.1 US gal (23 L) | 3.7 US gal (14 L) |
| Breva 1200 | Monster S2R 1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Final drive | Shaft | Chain |
Head to head, area by area
Both bikes on the same scale, one area at a time.
