Introducing the New 2010 Ducati Hypermotard 796

Big Red (the Italian one) is at it again. Ducati today announced an all-new model, the Hypermotard 796. The Hypermotard 1100 now has a sibling.

Relying on the proven Ducati platform of an air-cooled, two-valve-per cylinder L-Twin mill, the Hypermotard 796 uses a brand new engine for a brand new bike. The Twin incorporates a light action APTC clutch, and claims 81hp and 56 lb/ft of torque.

The new lightweight motard-like Duc save pounds by utilizing redesigned top and bottom fork clamps, and an improved “frame layout” that apparently eliminates almost all of the forged elements used previously on the 1100. Claimed weight (likely dry) is a svelte 368 lbs.

This should be one kick-ass Duc to ride, making a great urban assault vehicle. And in about two to three weeks we’ll let you know just how cool it is, as we’ll get our first ride on the 796 at Ducati’s headquarters in Bologna, Italy.

The Hypermotard 796 will be available at authorized Ducati showrooms beginning in December 2009. Color selections will include Ducati red, matte black, and matte white. MSRP for the Hypermotard 796 will be $9,995, joining the Monster 696 in Ducati’s sub- $10,000 sporting market. It could be a good contender against Triumph’s Street Triple 675 R that retails for $8,999 ($9,599 for 2010), though the Street Triple will likely have an advantage of 15 or more rear wheel horsepower.

The Hypermotard 796 should make another great hooligan option in this price range.

See the rest of the post for more pics.

By Pete Brissette