Introduction: Rev your engines, Ducati enthusiasts, because the iconic Italian brand is back with a blast from the past – the Hypermotard 698 Mono. In an exclusive chat with MCN, Ducati’s Head of Design, Andrea Ferraresi, spills the beans on the return to single-cylinder magic after a three-decade hiatus. The 659cc Hypermotard promises not just a ride but a revival of Ducati’s commitment to creating engines that are nothing short of masterpieces.
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The Monologue’s Resurgence: Why Single-Cylinder? For Ducati, engines are the heartbeat of innovation. Ferraresi shares, “Engines, for us, are so important and so when we imagine Ducati in the future, we can’t imagine a Ducati without developing fascinating new engines.” The Hypermotard 698 Mono, with its 659cc single-cylinder powerhouse, marks Ducati’s return to the roots of pure, unadulterated riding excitement.
Supermono Nostalgia: A Glimpse into Ducati’s Past Ducati’s last dalliance with a single-cylinder was in 1993 with the limited-run Supermono 550 racer. Fast forward to 2024, and the Hypermotard 698 Mono takes center stage, boasting a 77.5bhp supermoto engine that’s not only powerful but also the highest-revving single-cylinder in Ducati’s history.
The AlcHemi Magic: Not Just a Name, but a Design Delight Why call it the AlcHemi? Ferraresi unravels the mystery, “Until a few years ago we only had twins, and now we have a single, and V4 engines. Engine development for us is a must. Everything starts from there.” The AlcHemi embraces a playful wordplay, reflecting a nod to alchemy, turning the Hypermotard into gold with yellow Brembo brakes, special graphics, and a vibrant interior with yellow accents. It’s a potion of design and performance.
The Road Ahead: No Supermono Resurrection (For Now) While Ducati aficionados might have dreamt of a Supermono revival, Ferraresi tempers expectations, stating, “At the moment, we are not forecasting to use it in other models, but never say never.” The focus is on the present, with the Hypermotard 698 Mono aimed at attracting a younger audience while maintaining Ducati’s premium allure.
Strategic Shift: Attracting the Youth without Compromising Heritage Ducati’s strategy involves luring a younger audience without diluting the brand’s premium essence. Ferraresi elaborates, “It’s a pillar of our strategy, to acquire and to get the interest of a younger audience. We have several pillars in this strategy.” The Hypermotard’s restrictable nature for an A2 license is a strategic move to bring fresh faces to Ducati showrooms.
Conclusion: The Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono is not just a motorcycle; it’s a testament to Ducati’s commitment to innovation and heritage. As the single-cylinder symphony reverberates on the streets, it’s a reminder that Ducati’s engines aren’t just crafted; they’re composed, each note echoing the brand’s legacy and future aspirations. Ducati aficionados, get ready to savor the sweet melody of the AlcHemi monologue – a ride that’s more than a journey, it’s a sonnet on two wheels.
