Derbi Mulhacén 659 (2005–2011): A Singular Spanish Spirit

Introduction: The Iberian Maverick

The Derbi Mulhacén 659 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. Named after Spain’s highest peak, this bold single-cylinder machine carved its niche in the mid-2000s as a lightweight, Euro-flavored naked bike with a rebellious streak. Born from Derbi’s racing heritage and powered by a Yamaha-Minarelli engine, the Mulhacén 659 straddled the line between urban agility and backroad charisma. Over its production run, it spawned variants like the Café 659 and the Angel Nieto Limited Edition, each adding a dash of personality to the formula. But what’s it like to ride? Let’s twist the throttle.

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Engine Performance: Thumper with Attitude

At the heart of the Mulhacén beats a 659.7cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine—a rarity in a segment dominated by twins. With 47–48 hp (35–36 kW) peaking around 6,000 RPM, this isn’t a fire-breathing monster, but it’s anything but boring.

Low-End Grunt: Where this engine shines is in its midrange. From 3,000 to 5,500 RPM, the torque curve feels like a friendly shove, perfect for darting through city traffic or lofting the front wheel over unexpected bumps. The fuel-injected models (post-2007) deliver smoother throttle response compared to the carbureted 2005–2006 editions, which require a more delicate wrist.

Vibrations? Oh Yes: By 7,000 RPM, the single-cylinder character announces itself through the handlebars and seat. It’s not intrusive—just a persistent reminder that you’re riding something raw. Highway cruising at 110 km/h (68 mph) is manageable, but this isn’t a mile-eater. The engine thrives in short, spirited bursts.

Soundtrack: The exhaust note is a deep, guttural bark that transitions to a frenetic buzz at higher revs. Swap the stock muffler (hint: MOTOPARTS.store offers slip-ons), and you’ll amplify its personality tenfold.

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Handling: Lightweight Flickability

Weighing in at 164–179 kg (361–395 lbs) wet, the Mulhacén feels like a bicycle compared to modern nakeds. The steel trellis frame and aluminum swingarm keep things rigid, while the suspension setup—a 43mm USD fork and linkage-assisted monoshock—strikes a balance between comfort and control.

City Playground: Filtering through traffic is a joy. The narrow profile and 810 mm (31.9") seat height let you slide through gaps, though shorter riders might find themselves tip-toeing at stops. The steering is light, almost telepathic—a flick of the hips is all it takes to change direction.

Backroad Ballet: On twisty roads, the Mulhacén’s 120 mm (4.7") of suspension travel soaks up imperfections without wallowing. The 17" wheels (on Café models) offer quick turn-in, while the 18" variants (base model) add stability on rougher tarmac. Lean it hard, and the footpegs will touch down before the tires protest.

Braking: Brembo-equipped Café editions inspire confidence with a radial 4-piston caliper biting a 320mm rotor. Base models get the job done with simpler setups, but upgrading to sintered pads (available here) is wise for aggressive riders.

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Design: Quirky, Not Cookie-Cutter

The Mulhacén’s styling polarizes—and that’s its charm. The angular fuel tank, exposed frame rails, and minimalist tail section scream “European eccentric.”

Café Flair: The Café 659 Angel Nieto LE dials up the retro vibe with a two-tone paint scheme, clip-on handlebars, and a cowled seat. The red/black livery nods to Derbi’s racing legacy, while the digital dash adds a modern touch.

Ergonomics: The riding position is upright, with wide bars offering leverage for urban combat. The seat, though slim, firms up after an hour—a gel pad (check our accessories aisle) helps.

Practicality: The 13L (3.4-gallon) tank nets ~250 km (155 miles) before reserve. Storage? None. But that’s what tank bags are for.

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Competition: Standing Out in the Crowd

The mid-2000s naked bike arena was crowded. Here’s how the Mulhacén stacks up:

1. Suzuki SV650:
2. Pros: Silky V-twin, bulletproof reliability.
3. Cons: Heavier, less playful.

4. Derbi’s Edge: The Mulhacén’s lightweight and single-cylinder thrills.

5. Yamaha MT-03 (660):

6. Pros: Same Minarelli engine, sharper styling.
7. Cons: Less suspension travel, pricier.

8. Derbi’s Edge: Unique Spanish flair and Café variants.

9. Aprilia Pegaso 650:

10. Pros: Adventure-ready, comfier seat.
11. Cons: Soft suspension, bland design.
12. Derbi’s Edge: Street-focused agility and Brembo brakes.

The Mulhacén’s Achilles’ heel? Its niche engine. Twins ruled the era, but for riders craving character over conformity, this Derbi was—and still is—a breath of fresh air.

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Maintenance: Keep the Single Singing

Owning a Mulhacén isn’t hard, but it demands attention:

Valve Checks
- Intake: 0.09–0.13 mm (0.0035–0.0051")
- Exhaust: 0.16–0.20 mm (0.0063–0.0079")
Check every 6,000 km (3,700 miles). Neglect this, and the top end gets noisy.

Oil Changes
- Capacity: 2.5L (2.6 quarts) with filter. Use 10W-40 JASO MA2.
- Tip: The dry-sump design means oil changes are messier—have rags ready.

Chain & Sprockets
- Stock gearing (15/46 teeth) prioritizes acceleration. For highway riding, swap to a 16T front sprocket.
- Clean and lube every 500 km (310 miles). Our chain kits include everything you’ll need.

Tire Pressures
- Front: 2.0 bar (29 psi)
- Rear: 2.1 bar (30 psi)
Stick to these for optimal grip and wear.

Cooling System
Flush every 2 years with ethylene glycol-based coolant. Watch for leaks around the pump—a common issue.

Spark Plugs
NGK CR7E (standard) or CR7EIX (iridium). Gap to 0.6 mm (0.024").

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Conclusion: The Underdog You’ll Love

The Derbi Mulhacén 659 isn’t perfect. It vibrates, the seat’s firm, and parts can be quirky. But ride one, and you’ll forgive its flaws. This is a motorcycle that engages—a lightweight, snarling singleton that begs to be thrown at corners and city streets with equal abandon.

For owners, MOTOPARTS.store has your back. From performance upgrades to maintenance essentials, we’ve got the goods to keep your Mulhacén alive and kicking. Because legends deserve no less.

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Specifications sheet

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