Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono everyday test 2024

The realm of high-performance street-legal supermotos has long been dominated by the KTM Group - until now! This is because the new Ducati Supermoto from Italy has already made a strong impression in all areas during the initial test on the kart race track. With the RVE configuration, which not only boasts a stylish design but also includes the Quickshifter as standard, we had the opportunity to put it to the test on picturesque country roads. And the outcome is truly remarkable!

Even though we will delve into a direct comparison with the KTM 690 SMC R in a separate article, it's hard not to draw parallels between the Ducati and KTM models - after all, these bikes are the new Hypermotard's competitors and the current industry standard. The Italian manufacturer doesn't need to conceal the power of its engine. On the contrary! The 659 cc Superquadro Mono engine produces 77.5 hp at 9,750 rpm and a torque of 63 Nm at 8,000 rpm. This makes it the most potent single-cylinder engine currently available in a street-legal motorcycle. However, the Hypermotard doesn't just excel on paper; it also delivers an unparalleled level of emotion.

When it comes to single-cylinder engines with a high displacement, they are usually known for their rough and rugged performance. However, the Ducati single-cylinder engine stands out with its elegant and sporty power delivery. Starting from 3,000 rpm, it accelerates smoothly and revs up energetically to its peak at 10,250 rpm. Even with the stock exhaust system, the Superquadro Mono treats you to a delightful sound and the occasional pop in overrun mode. It's pure emotion - a true Ducati classic.

During the initial presentation and also after the first test on the kart track, one question remained unanswered: Can the engine also convince on the country road? After all, its power comes on late for a supermoto and the torque is not the highest in this class. This suggests a revving engine - atypical and deliberate for this class. During the ride, however, the all-clear is given: 70% of the maximum torque is available from 3,000 rpm and 80% from 4,500 rpm. This means that there is no lack of punch in the saddle and the Ducati Supermoto Mono pushes powerfully out of the bend. In fact, there was no noticeable difference in our comparison with the Austrian competition (which has 10 Nm more available). That's how good Ducati's first supermoto is. Even though this bike is the first supermoto from the Italian company, they have already got the hang of the engine.

Supermotos have very specific requirements when it comes to the choice of tires. Here, high torque and high cornering speeds meet low weight. A special tire like the ContiAttack SM 2 is needed to ensure the best possible safety and grip. Developed for this class of motorcycles, the successor to the SM EVO offers a variety of technologies to be perfectly tailored to bikes like the Ducati Supermoto. If you want to find out more about the tire, click here: First experiences with the ContiAttack SM2.

Supermoto and electronics - do they even go together? If it's solved so masterfully, then yes! Starting with the simple but easy-to-read 3.8-inch LC display, which is operated via the familiar Ducati controls on the handlebars. While half of the display is taken up by the speed, gear indicator and revs, the second half shows riding modes and the individual setting options for the electronics. This consists of cornering ABS including Ducati Wheelie Control and slide-by-brake function, Ducati traction control, engine brake control, Ducati Power Launch and the Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) for upshifting and downshifting. The parameters not only adapt to the Sport, Road, City and Wet riding modes, but can also be set separately.

You can learn about how the systems perform at the limit and on the supermoto track in NoPain's review. However, on the open road, the system can also impress, as it allows for easy drifts in the right setting (adjustable based on skill and experience) while keeping the Ducati Supermoto 698 Mono stable, making it hard to go wrong. The electronics package of the Ducati is designed to cater to a wide range of riders: those who simply want to cruise actively on the open road with all systems engaged, those who like to have a bit of fun but are not yet expert riders, and those who want to push the limits without any electronic interference.

However, the Ducati Supermoto is not just designed for chasing the best times on the track and the Supermoto circuit. Despite the limited wind protection, this modern supermoto provides adequate seating comfort for daily commuting, with limited heat build-up between the legs. With a seat height of 904 mm, even riders of shorter stature, around 175 cm, found it easy to stand due to the relatively low crotch arch. The ready-to-ride weight of 151 kilograms also makes handling easier when stationary.

However, what really bothered us was the absence of a fuel gauge on the new Ducati Supermoto 698 Mono. We also looked for any information on the remaining range, but to no avail. This means that the enjoyment of leaning into corners is abruptly interrupted by the orange reserve light. This is a feature that could have easily been included even in the compact display of the Supermoto.

With a full tank and leaving Barcelona behind, we spent most of our time on the winding country roads around the city - where the Ducati Supermoto shines. This is where the fully adjustable chassis demonstrates its quality and precision. The Ducati Supermoto can be maneuvered through corners with absolute precision and provides clear feedback from the road. The Supermoto also exhibits the agile handling typical of supermotos, but never feels unstable. The braking system also offers a stable performance. At the front, the Supermoto is equipped with a Brembo brake system featuring a radial pump, adjustable lever, M4.32 caliper, and an impressive 330 mm single disc for optimal deceleration. Specially developed by Brembo for this model, it delivers top-notch braking performance. At the rear wheel, a 1-piston caliper with a 245 mm single disc, also with a unique design, ensures excellent braking power.

In conjunction with the highly acclaimed engine, Ducati has crafted an exceptionally stylish motorcycle for the backroads. Just like a pizza cutter through a Margherita, the Ducati Supermoto slices through the scenery, leaving a lasting impression.

The Ducati Supermoto 698 Mono is priced at 12,390 euros in Germany, with the RVE version costing 13,390 euros. In Switzerland, the Supermoto 698 Mono is priced at CHF 13,290, while the RVE version is CHF 14,290. In Austria, the standard version is priced at 14,595 euros, with the RVE version costing 15,595 euros.

You can find current offers here: Buy Ducati Supermoto 698 Mono.