Nimble to ride, the Ducati Monster 797 is stylish and not too intimidating.
Ducati has produced many versions of the Monster. Each version has been an evolution in styling and engineering. The Monster 797 adds to the legacy, albeit in a form that is accessible for entry-level riders, yet capable enough to be appreciated by experienced riders.
Displaying styling cues that are straight out of the Monster handbook, the Monster 797 sports a fuel tank and rounded headlight, which are such old-school Monster that turn alive the Monster spirit. Even the single-piece steel-tube frame with traditional tubular grab rails for the passenger is old-school Monster.
New features
What’s new is the triangular twin-sided cast aluminium swing arm. It contains a link-less shock mounted on the left side. Offering the same, 805.18mm, seat height as that of the Monster 821, the 797 has its foot pegs positioned lower. The handlebar is wide and contributes towards a comfortable riding position. Claimed to weigh a shade over 192kg, the Monster 797 looks stunning and flaunting a wheelbase of 1435.1mm, is nimble to ride.
If the tyres complement the dynamics, the 43mm inverted Kayaba forks work well in association with the Sachs rear shock with adjustable spring pre-load and rebound to get the Monster to display an easy going nature. Carrying itself very well on a straight or twisty stretch, the bike impresses with its ability to power out of corners nicely. The delivery of power is very usable and linear. The 803cc engine delivers 75hp at 8250rpm. It breathes through a single 50mm throttle body with two sub-butterfly injectors.
Not intimidating
Apart from precise delivery and a smooth flow, the best part of the Monster 797 is that it does not intimidate. The way it delivers power isn’t too intimidating — a fact that many entry-level riders will appreciate. Making available more than enough power to have fun, or to quickly overtake, the Monster 797 is accommodating.
The rise in engine revs is nicely corroborated by the exhaust emitting a growl. It is new. The six-speed transmission is equipped with Ducati’s APTC, cable-controlled clutch, which makes for a lighter pull. The servo-assisted slipper function helps to smoothly downshift.
Dash
The LCD dash is nice and clean. It displays all the information one may need. A USB port under the seat can be used to access Ducati’s optional Multimedia System (DMS). This allows phone access, and access of useful elements like navigation maps through the dash or through the earphones.
Verdict
The dual 320mm Brembo discs at front and a 245mm disc at the rear provide exceptional braking. They are assisted by a Bosch 9.1 MP ABS braking system. The action at the lever is progressive and inspires confidence. Not quite a match for the liquid-cooled Ducati bikes in terms of refinement, the Monster 797 is stylish and fun to ride. Not too intimidating in its power delivery, the bike is on the expensive side with its price tag of Rs 8.05 lakh ex-showroom Delhi.
