HERE ARE THE first pictures of the 2010 Ducati Hypermotard 796, more than a month ahead of its scheduled release.
The 796 weighs in at a claimed 167kg (368lb), partly achieved by a lightweight engine, but also by continued chassis development that includes redesigned top and bottom fork clamps and an improved frame layout which eliminates almost all of the forged elements previously used with the 1100.
At 825mm (32.5in), the seat height of the 796 is 20mm (0.8in) lower than the 1100.
The completely new Ducati 796 engine, which conforms to Euro 3 regulations, produces 81hp (59.6kW) of power and 55.7lb-ft (7.7kgm) of torque with the smooth and economic rideability expected from all Desmodue L-Twins.
The bike is equipped by an APTC ‘wet’ clutch to give a ‘slipper’ type action that prevents destabilization of the rear-end during aggressive down-shifting and also gives the extra benefit of a super-light feel at the lever, a great benefit in stop-start city traffic or during longer journeys.
With a rev-happy engine it should be awesome around the local back roads and ideal for city centre tarmac terrorists.
The new 796 comes in an urban-style Dark finish with matte black tank and beak section, black frame and black wheels or, alternatively, matte white tank with contrasting matte black beak, black frame and black wheels. An 1100 look-alike red tank with matching beak section, red frame and black wheels gives the 796 a traditional livery.
The Hypermotard is expected to arrive in UK Ducati Stores in December. The bike Matt colour versions have an SRP of £6,995 and the traditional Red version is £7,195 SRP.
It'll go on show for the first time in Milan in November and will be on sale early 2010.
