Popped into Moto Rapido the other day and, while there, had a chat with Craig and Luke about the new Monster. Craig confirmed that the "Monsterart" feature from the 696/796/1100 has been reintroduced and alternative tank panels will be available. Unlike the earlier incarnation, these new covers will be held on by just one screw each, rather than the 10+ you need to remove on the 696/796/1100.
Kerb weight is 188kg, (one kg less than I'd guessed), which is the same as was claimed for my 1100 Evo. The 950 Multistrada and Hypermotard have been dynoed at around 105hp, so I'd expect similar or a bit less for the Monster. Since 100hp was claimed for the Evo and 110hp for the new Monster, I'd be interested to compare the two on the road. Might have to book a test ride in the new year. (The first examples should be arriving around April.)
In the meantime, here's a fun "reimagining" of the new Monster:
