The Ducati Monster 821 is an iconic naked bike, but it might be on the verge of a major visual overhaul. According toBritish mag MCN, the Monster 821 is getting a complete revision, including a new frame. Supposedly, Ducati is ditching its distinctive trellis frame.

The rumours of a new Monster 821 started with the release of some spy shots a few months back, showing an updated version of the bike with a new frame. At that time, it seemed a bit speculative, but MCN seems to have some reason to take it all more seriously now. There’sa new set of sketchesfloating around that appear to be based on the same machine. Is it all a clever hoax? Who knows …

One thing’s for sure: If Ducati ditches the trellis frame for the 821, it’s going to cause a fuss. The trellis frame is part of the Ducati Monster visual. So why would Ducati move away from it?

Simple: It’s all about the Benjamins. The Monster 821 is one of Ducati’s more budget-oriented models, and the company needs to keep the price competitive with naked bikes from other manufacturers. Remember that Triumph is on the verge of introducing a new budget-priced middleweight, and the Japanese have already been selling machines at a lower price point for years. If Ducati can make an aluminum frame cheaper than a steel trellis frame, it can either maximize profits or lower the price point of its machines, or maybe a bit of both. With the aftermath of COVID-19 still uncertain, no doubt Ducati is doubly interested in a machine that can either save money, or appeal to customers with thinner wallets.