Ducati India has fueled the flames of anticipation by teasing the imminent arrival of the Hypermotard 698 Mono on its social media page.
A Bold New Chapter for Ducati
Unveiled in November 2023, the Hypermotard 698 Mono represents a significant milestone for Ducati. It’s the company’s first production motorcycle in over 30 years to boast a single-cylinder engine, generating considerable buzz among motorcycle enthusiasts. While an official launch date is yet to be revealed, Ducati hints at an arrival within the coming weeks.
Aggressive Design and Modern Features
The Hypermotard 698 Mono borrows styling cues from its larger sibling, the Hypermotard 950, featuring sharp bodywork and a streamlined fuel tank. A new LED headlamp flanked by aggressive DRLs dominates the front fascia, while a 3.8-inch LCD display keeps the rider informed. Ducati equips the motorcycle with a comprehensive suite of features, including three power modes, cornering ABS, four ride modes, traction control, and wheelie control – a welcome addition for spirited riding. Adjustments to these systems can be made conveniently through the instrument cluster.
World-Beating Single-Cylinder Performance
The heart of the Hypermotard 698 Mono lies in its groundbreaking 659cc, liquid-cooled Superquadro Mono engine. Mated to a six-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch (the RVE variant boasts a standard quickshifter), this powerhouse cranks out 77.5 bhp at 9,750 rpm and 63 Nm of peak torque at 8,000 rpm, making it the most potent single-cylinder engine in production globally. For those seeking an extra edge, an optional Termignoni race exhaust unlocks further potential, boosting power and torque to 84.5 hp and 67 Nm respectively.
Agile Handling and Braking Performance
A steel trellis frame with a steel-tube subframe and an aluminum swingarm forms the foundation of the Hypermotard 698 Mono’s chassis. Suspension duties are handled by an adjustable Marzocchi USD fork at the front and a Sachs monoshock at the rear. Braking performance comes courtesy of Brembo M4.32 calipers gripping 330mm discs at the front, while a single-piston floating caliper with a 245mm disc resides at the back.
Expected Price and Launch
The anticipated price tag for the Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono in India falls around the ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom) mark. With its innovative engine, aggressive design, and comprehensive feature set, the Hypermotard 698 Mono promises to be a thrilling addition to the Indian motorcycle landscape. Stay tuned for further updates on the official launch date.