Something else that encourages you to choose back roads over main routes also underlines the slightly more focused nature of the bike. Riding along dual-carriageways and motorways is within the remit of the Ducati, but the lack of protection means cruising at anything over 90mph quickly becomes a pain in the neck. Although it pays to keep the pace more reasonable anyway, since the fuel tank range isn’t too practical when you’re caning it.
Speaking of which, the engine tends to run out of puff quite early anyway. At slower speeds and lower rpm, the flexibility and punch of the V-twin fires it along with plenty of spirit and purpose. But when it's spinning harder the two-valve air-cooled motor starts showing its age and lack of power. It can get up to a decent enough speed in time, but with such impressive handling on offer it's a shame the engine isn't quite man enough to match it, and at times becomes a bit of a letdown. Compared to KTM's 990 Supermoto, the Ducati feels quite lame and lifeless when the route becomes more open.
Mind you, as long as you realise this and use the Hypermotard wisely and where it’s best suited, then the lack of power probably won't bother you in any way. Do that and the Ducati is a highly enjoyable bike and certainly one to show off on thanks to its classic and distinctive Italian architecture. It’s just a pity the show isn't matched quite as well by the straightline go.
STAT BOXDucati Hypermotard 1100
Price: £8,000
Performance: 125mph
EngineType: air cooled, 4-valve, Desmo dohc, 90-degree V-twin
Displacement: 1,078cc
Bore x Stroke: 98 x 71.5mm
Compression: 10.5:1
Power (claimed): 90bhp @ 7,750rpm
Torque (claimed): 76lb/ft @ 4,750rpm
Carburation: Magnetti Marelli fuel-injection, 45mm throttle bodies
Gearbox: six-speed
Chassis:Type: Steel-tubed trellis
Rake/Trail: 24 degrees / na
Seat
height: 845mm
Wheelbase: 1,455mm
SuspensionFront: 50mm inverted telescopic forks, fully adjustable
Rear: rising-rate monoshock, fully adjustable
BrakesFront: twin 305mm discs with four-piston radial calipers
Rear: single 245mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Wheels/TyresFront: Pirelli Diablo, 120/70-17
Rear: Pirelli Diablo, 180/55-17
Fuel capacity: 12.4litres
Dry weight: 179kg
Contact: 0845 1222 996 or
Click here for Ducati's website
