Ducati Teases India Launch of Hypermotard 698 Mono: A New Era of Single-Cylinder Power
Ducati has teased the upcoming launch of the Hypermotard 698 Mono on its social media handles, building excitement ahead of its debut in India. Expected to be priced between Rs 9.50 and Rs 10.50 lakh (ex-showroom), this motorcycle marks Ducati’s return to single-cylinder engines after three decades.
The Hypermotard 698 Mono, which made its global debut in November 2023, is set to hit the Indian market soon, although the official launch date is yet to be announced. The teaser image partially reveals the bike’s front, showcasing a V-shaped headlamp flanked by LED DRLs, emphasizing its sleek design.
Design & Features
The Hypermotard 698 Mono sports a distinctive design, typical of supermotos, with a high-set beak-like front fender. Its tall stance, wide handlebar, and single-piece bench seat contribute to its enduro bike appearance. Other notable design elements include twin upswept exhaust mufflers under the rear fender, a flat single-piece seat, and a sleek tail section.
In terms of features, the Hypermotard 698 Mono is equipped with a 3.8-inch LCD instrument panel and all-LED lighting. It offers four ride modes: Sport, Road, Urban, and Wet. Ducati has also packed it with an extensive electronics suite, including traction control, three power modes, ride-by-wire, wheelie control, launch control, cornering ABS, and engine brake control, ensuring a versatile and safe riding experience.
Engine Specs
The Hypermotard 698 Mono is powered by a 659cc, liquid-cooled Superquadro Mono engine that delivers 77.5 bhp and 63 Nm of peak torque. With an optional Termignoni race exhaust, the output can be increased to 84.5 bhp and 67 Nm of torque, making it the world’s most powerful single-cylinder engine. It remains to be seen if these specifications will be available in the Indian market.
Hardware
Built on a trellis frame, the Hypermotard 698 Mono features fully adjustable USD front forks and a rear monoshock by Sachs, providing superior handling and comfort. Braking is handled by a 330mm front disc and a 245mm rear disc, assisted by dual-channel ABS. The rear ABS can be switched off for performing slides, adding a layer of excitement for the rider. The bike rolls on 17-inch wheels with 120/70 front and 160/60 rear Diablo Rosso 4 tires, ensuring excellent grip and stability.
The anticipation for the Hypermotard 698 Mono is building, and its innovative features and powerful engine are set to make a significant impact in the Indian motorcycle market. Ducati fans and motorcycle enthusiasts alike eagerly await its official launch.
