Ducati Gears Up for India Launch of Hypermotard 698: A Powerful Single-Cylinder Beast

Ducati India has announced that it will soon launch the Hypermotard 698, its first single-cylinder motorcycle in recent times, by releasing a teaser. The move will generate huge interest among motorcycle enthusiasts across India since the launch is expected to take place in the coming weeks.

Most Powerful Single-Cylinder Engine

The Hypermotard 698 holds the distinction for the most powerful production single cylinder to date: its "Superquadro Mono" high-performance engine puts out a significant 77.5 horsepower and 63 Nm of torque; with the optional racing exhaust from Termignoni, this can be pumped further up to 84.5 horsepower and 67 Nm.

Packed with Technology and Rider Aids

Additionally, it will feature a 6-speed gearbox and a slip-and-assist clutch for smoother gear shifts. And an optional bidirectional quickshifter will enable riders to ride the motorcycle without using the clutch at all, making the riding experience even more enriching. The quickshifter also comes as a standard feature of the RVE variant.

Lightweight Design and Agile Handling

Noticeably, Ducati has managed to keep the Hypermotard 698 very light at 151 kg sans fuel. This would mean it is agile in terms of handling and sporty when straddled. Its suspension setup features fully adjustable fittings—a USD fork from Marzocchi and a monoshock from Sachs.

Sharp Brakes and High-Performance Tires

Radial-mount monobloc caliper squeezing a 330mm disc up front, sharp stopping power is provided. In addition, the motorcycle comes with dual-channel ABS for good measure, though rear ABS can be disabled for track work. Up front, Pirelli Diablo Rosso 4 tires are sized 120/70-ZR17 and 160/60-ZR17 at the rear, providing impressive grip and control.

Advanced Electronics for Rider Assistance

The Hypermotard 698 comes standard with a full package of electronic rider aids featuring cornering ABS, traction control, engine braking control, and power and riding modes. Launch control is also available while wheelie control is an optional extra. All information is displayed on a compact 3.5-inch LCD instrument cluster that also allows riders to configure all of this.

Also Read: Brighten Your Ride With HELLA Knight Series LED Modules

Premium Price Tag Expected

Since the Hypermotard 698 is going to be imported as a Completely Built Unit, it's obviously going to be rather pricey. And considering that it's a single-cylinder design—a bit of a niche product, really—it perhaps isn't expected to have the widest appeal among riders in India.

With the Ducati Hypermotard 698 entering India, it finally shows that the manufacturer has put things into gear in sending more motorcycles to this part of the world. Equipped with a power-packed engine, lightness, and advanced technology, this motorcycle will no doubt be one of the interesting choices for riders seeking a different and more exhilarating experience.

Want more of the world of automotive – check out the social media pages of GoMotoring. Connect anywhere, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.