An all-new 821cc Hypermotard replaces the old 796 and 1100 models. No longer competing against its siblings, the Hypermotard takes on the rest of the world with a new Testastretta engine derived from the Streetfighter.

The 2013 Ducati Hypermotard sports unique, ultra-aggressive styling. Behold the single-sided swingarm, upswept tail (in pure superbike fashion), and completely redesigned exhaust system with a new single silencer mounted lower on the right side.


The heart of a supersport
The water-cooled engine from the Streetfighter 848 signals the end of air cooling for the 2013 Ducati Hypermotard, which also features just about every possible electronic aid, including Sport ABS, 8-level Ducati Traction Control, and a choice of three different riding modes (Urban, Touring, and Sport on the base model; Rain, Sport, and Race on the SP). What's more, highlighting a growing trend among the Ducati lineup, there's a new ride-by-wire throttle system.

The new Testastretta L-twin produces 110 hp at 9,250 rpm and 65.8 lb-ft of torque at 7,750 rpm. That's 29 hp more than the 796 and 15 hp more than the 1100. The engine is housed in a new tubular trellis frame made of steel. Despite the addition of a water cooling system, the 2013 Ducati Hypermotard weighs only 175 kg, making it just a tad heavier than the outgoing 1100.

Photo: Ducati

Sportier SP
Meanwhile, the sportier Hypermotard SP gets a Marzocchi fork, fully adjustable Öhlins shock, several carbon pieces, lightweight alloy wheels, and Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires. It shaves 4 kg off the base model's weight while raising the seat to 890 mm thanks to some suspension tweaking.

With irresistible machines like the Diavel (introduced in 2011), 1199 Panigale (2012) and these two new 2013 Hypermotard models, Ducati showrooms will be quite busy this spring. Hurry now before they all fly off the lot!