Ducati Monster 797

Italian firm take their most famous model back to its stripped-down roots

This, according to the factory, is the gateway to the Ducati world and a bike built on the theory of the 1990s original. ‘Everything on the Monster 797 recalls the iconic 90s bike,’ they say. ‘The essence, history and unique appeal, accessible to anyone.’ So there’s an air-cooled V-twin, borrowed from the Scrambler range and measuring 803cc. Like in the trendy sibling it has 75bhp at 8250rpm. And there’s a steel tube trellis frame, new for this bike and putting the mechanicals proudly on view. Nice big curvy tank as well, taking 16.5 litres. Forks are fixed, the shock has adjustable preload and rebound, and twin radial Brembo calipers with ABS bite on twin discs. Seat height is a low and friendly 805mm. There’s a USB port tucked under the seat and an LCD dash, but otherwise it’s fuss-free and honest. If Ducati UK get the pricing right (less than a Scrambler, then) we reckon the 797 could be a pleasing tool.