Thanks to the elliptical throttle body and the dedicated exhaust, the second generation Testastretta 11° DS engine generates a power which can be compared with that of a 3/4 cylinder engine and is able to reach great performance levels. This engine in fact ensures an output of 147 hp at 9,250 rpm and an impressive torque curve which delivers total riding pleasure, generating a maximum torque of 124 Nm at 7,750 rpm.

The Testastretta 11° DS engine is coupled to an impressive side-mounted 2-1 staggered shotgun exhaust that makes no secret of the performance of which the Monster 1200 is capable. The engine management system dedicates a lambda probe to each header, providing precise fueling, while the sport cannon-style, vertically stacked silencers carry catalytic converters to provide Euro 4 conformity (only for countries where Euro 4 standard applies). An electronically controlled section valve optimises exhaust pressure throughout the rev-range.

The Ride-by-Wire (RbW) system is an electronic interface between the Monster’s twistgrip and engine, which manages an ideal power response depending on the riding mode selected. The twistgrip does not have a throttle cable connected directly to the throttle body butterflies, but instead delivers a signal to a control unit, which in turn operates an electronically controlled butterfly. The RbW system uses three different mappings to regulate power delivery: 145hp with a sports-type delivery, 145hp with a progressive delivery suitable for touring, 100hp with a progressive delivery for city use and wet conditions.