Over the last several months, Ducati fans have been pouring over a number of spy photos and debating whether the new model pictured was a Hypermotard or a Multistrada. The answer, it turns out, is a bit of both, with Ducati revealing the new Hyperstrada at the 2012 EICMA Show alongside a new liquid-cooled Hypermotard.

Like the new Hypermotard, the 2013 Ducati Hyperstrada is equipped with an 821cc version of the liquid-cooled Testastretta 11-degree engine. Like the Hypermotard, the Hyperstrada offers ABS and traction control as well as three ride modes: Sport (claiming 108 hp), Touring (also claiming 108 hp) and Urban (74 hp).

What’s different about the Hyperstrada is its more touring-oriented features. The Hyperstrada comes with a touring screen for better wind protection, center stand, longer mudguards, engine sump guard, two auxiliary outlets and 50 liter quick-detach saddlebags (a 31 liter top case is available as an accessory for more storage.) The Hyperstrada’s handlebars are also 20mm higher than those on the Hypermotard, improving comfort for longer journeys. Continue Reading »

Ducati is streamlining its Hypermotard lineup for 2013, replacing its air-cooled  796 and 1100 models with a new 821cc liquid-cooled Hypermotard. Announced at the 2012 EICMA Show in Milan, Italy, the line now includes the Hypermotard, the Hypermotard SP and the more touring-oriented Hyperstrada which you can read about in a separate post.

Bowing to ever tightening environmentally-friendly restrictions, the new generation of Hypermotards come equipped with a new 821cc version of Ducati’s Testastretta V-Twin engine. The Hypermotard has three ride modes: Sport, Touring and Urban. According to Ducati, the the Sport mode offers an output of 108hp at 9250rpm. The Touring mode also claims 110hp though its power curve is better attuned for longer distance travel. The Urban mode restricts power to 74 hp, also at 9250rpm. The Hypermotard also comes standard with the Ducati Safety Pack which includes ABS and traction control.

The rider triangle has been revised on the new Hypermotard, with the handlebars placed higher and further forward than on the previous generation models. The footpegs are also moved further ahead. Ducati claims the new riding posture offers a commanding riding position. Continue Reading »