For those who see motorcycles not just as machines but as masterpieces, the Bandit9 x Ducati 821 is your next rideable obsession. Initially commissioned by a San Francisco-based collector, this project reflects a deep appreciation for Van Daryl Vincente Villanueva, the Founder and Design Chief of Bandit9 and his visionary approach to motorcycle design, marking a refined evolution of the atelier’s craftsmanship and a redefinition of two-wheeled engineering.
Image source: bandit9.com
Built upon the foundation of the discontinued Ducati Monster 821, the latest creation reimagines the original naked motorcycle through a distinct, monolithic design language. Every panel and surface has been meticulously redesigned and handcrafted, resulting in a seamless, sculptural form. The body features hand-polished aluminium, while the single-seat cowl is precision-built using carbon fibre, reinforcing the fusion of performance engineering and artisanal craftsmanship.
Beneath its futuristic and aerodynamic exterior, the motorcycle houses Ducati’s reliable 821cc Testastretta engine, aiding in delivering 110 horsepower and 65.8 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain enables a 0 to 60 mph acceleration in just 3.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 125 mph. Housed within a custom steel trellis and cast aluminium frame, the 11-degree V-twin configuration contributes to a lightweight dry weight of just 386 pounds, balancing high performance with structural efficiency.
By introducing this newly designed motorcycle, it places the Bandit9 Ducati 821 in a unique performance category. It is notably lighter than full-size sport-touring models such as the BMW R 1250 RS, which weighs over 520 pounds, yet slightly heavier than dedicated track bikes like the Yamaha R6, which comes in around 370 pounds. For comparison, the standard Ducati Monster 821 has a dry weight of approximately 395 pounds, highlighting Bandit9’s achievement in reducing overall weight despite the addition of a full fairing and an extensively reengineered aerodynamic body.
These unique features translate to a power-to-weight ratio of roughly 0.285 hp per pound. For comparison, a stock Monster 821 sits at about 0.278 hp/lb and the Yamaha R6, despite being a popular track tool, delivers closer to 0.26 hp/lb. While some exotic bikes chase ultra-light numbers to boost agility, often sacrificing comfort, road presence or high-speed stability, Bandit9 is gunning for the sweet spot.
The added weight, paired with its elongated, sculpted and aggressive riding posture, is engineered to deliver a stable and confident ride, particularly through high-speed curves and downhill stretches. Complementing its dynamic capability is a 4.23-gallon fuel tank, offering an estimated range of 145 miles. Designed for versatility, Bandit9 positions this motorcycle as equally suited for both road riding and track performance.
Enhancing the bike’s dynamic performance is a chassis fitted with 43mm Sachs front forks and an adjustable Sachs mono-shock at the rear, delivering responsive handling across varied conditions. Braking is managed by dual 320mm slotted Brembo discs with monobloc callipers at the front and a 245mm disc at the rear, all supported by ABS to ensure controlled stopping power during high-performance or emergency braking scenarios.
Each visual and functional component has been meticulously engineered to integrate harmoniously with the overall design, including the custom-milled aluminium fuel cap and fork covers and the internally routed cabling. The LED lighting is discreetly embedded, becoming virtually invisible when inactive, while the exhaust system is fully integrated into the bodywork, reinforcing the motorcycle’s unified and refined aesthetic.
With production limited to just nine units, each priced at USD 44,900 including the donor motorcycle, this model commands a significant premium over the standard Ducati Monster range, which starts at USD 12,995. However, the Bandit9 Ducati 821 is purpose-built for discerning buyers who value exclusivity, precision craftsmanship, avant-garde design and high-performance engineering, aiding in seamless integration to a singular, cohesive creation.
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