Only yesterday, we were talking about the Ducati 795 which is touted as the Ducati for India. The official unveiling of the bike is on the 20th of October 2011at Sepang, Malaysia. However, an even cheaper variant of the bike made exclusively for the Australian market thus far, makes more sense for the Indian market. Currently this model is sold in the Australian market as a learner bike under the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme.
This is one of those low-power, low spec, and most importantly, low-cost bikes which make perfect sense for cost-conscious markets like India. So is Ducati actually planning to bring this one here?
The Ducati 659, as it is called, based on (and visually similar to) the Monster 696 would be lightweight, easy handling with a low seat height and rider friendly V-Twin power delivery. going by the 696’s visuals, the 659 too should look as premium as its bigger brother with typical Ducati detailing, high quality an imposing presence. Here we have the detailed specs.
Wheel Base 1450mm (57.1in)
Fuel Capacity 15L
Weight 161kg
Type L-Twin cylinder, 2 valve per cylinder Desmodromic, air cooled
Displacement 659cc
Bore x Stroke 88 x 54.2mm
Power 50hp @ 8250rpm
Fuel System Siemens electronic fuel injection, 45mm throttle body
Gear Box 6 speed
Clutch APTC wet multiplate with hydraulic control
Frame Tubular steel Trellis frame
Front Brakes 2 x 320mm discs, 4-piston radial caliper
Rear Brakes 245mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Exhaust 2 aluminum mufflers
