The learner-approved Ducati Monster 659 has returned to there Australian market after being missing for more than a year.
The new Monster 659 is expected to arrive in October 2017 with an introductory price of $12,490 plus on-road costs, which is surprisingly $500 less than the old 659.
Ducati Australia New Zealand is the only importer in the world for which the Italian manufacturer has made a special bike to suit licensing rules.
We reviewed the Monster 659 back in 2013 when it was based on the 696.
It had a sleeved piston and a restrictor plate on the throttle to meet the Australian Learner-Approved Motorcycle Scheme rules. Power was down to 38kW from 58kW.
The bike was discontinued in 2016 and the Ducati Scrambler 400 filled the gap for learners wanting the Italian brand.
Now, the 659 has returned but is based on the new Monster 797.
Ducati Monster 797The same key features, benefits and levels of safety are shared across both models including ABS as standard.
It also has a low standard seat height of 785mm which is ideal for learners, females and smaller riders.
The bike is a testament to the good relationship the Australian importers have with the Italian factory says Warren Lee, CEO of Ducati Australia and New Zealand.
“The new 659 is based on the new 797, which is already proving to be a very popular model with younger, female and less experienced riders, so again it’s the ideal basis for our new LAMS model.”
As with all new Ducati motorcycles, the Monster 659 is covered by a two-year unlimited kilometre warranty and 24-hour roadside and emergency assist.