Derek's classic Ducati Monster 797+: A deliberate step back to basics

Introduction

There’s something refreshingly honest about owning the Ducati Monster 797. At a time when many modern bikes feel locked in an arms race of rider aids, screen tech, and headline horsepower figures, the 797 deliberately swims against the tide. With its air‑cooled engine and exposed steel trellis frame, it distils the Monster formula down to its essentials: engine, road, and rider—and that’s exactly what drew me to it.

Visually, it’s instantly recognisable as a Monster. Compact, muscular, and stripped of anything unnecessary, it looks just as good parked outside a café as it does leaned over mid‑corner. The minimal electronics and unapologetically analogue feel add to the appeal. It constantly reminds me that riding doesn’t need layers of menus and modes to be rewarding—it just needs feel and connection.

From the very first ride, it was obvious the Monster 797 isn’t interested in spec‑sheet bragging rights. There’s no electronic filter between me and the bike—just the air‑cooled Desmodue V‑twin and an upright, natural riding position that feels instantly familiar. It’s narrow through the waist, unintimidating at low speeds, and easy to live with day to day. It’s the sort of bike that encourages spontaneous rides and makes even short trips feel worthwhile.

Drive train

Twist the throttle and the Desmodue V‑twin doesn’t try to impress with brute force—it rewards smooth inputs and mechanical sympathy. Power delivery is predictable and full of character, which makes every backroad run engaging rather than stressful. I find myself focusing more on momentum and flow than outright speed, and that suits the bike perfectly. The soundtrack alone—that classic Ducati thrum—is often reason enough to take the longer way home.

Ride

Out on the road, my experience with the Monster 797 is all about character rather than outright performance. There’s plenty of usable torque low and through the mid‑range, which encourages smooth throttle use and well‑planned corner exits instead of frantic rev chasing. It really comes into its own on flowing B‑roads, where clean lines and rhythm matter more than aggression. The clutch and throttle are friendly, and the bike feels happiest when ridden at seven‑tenths rather than pushed to the limit.

That said, the front suspension is the bike’s most obvious weak point—and it’s something I noticed almost immediately. Over rough surfaces or sharp bumps, it can feel crashy and under‑damped, sending more impact through the bars than I’d ideally want. Push on a bit harder and the lack of adjustability becomes apparent, especially on imperfect roads. It’s not a deal‑breaker, but it does underline the bike’s budget‑conscious setup and explains why upgrading the forks is high on many owners’ to‑do lists.

Conclusion

As an ownership experience, the Monster 797 earns its RetroRide credentials by staying true to itself. It isn’t chasing trends, lap times, or numbers—it’s focused on the simple joy of riding. It looks right, sounds right, and delivers an engaging, analogue experience that feels increasingly rare.

It may not be perfect, but its flaws are honest. And for riders like me, who value connection, character, and feel over polish and outright performance, that honesty is exactly the point.