Ducati India has teased the arrival of its first modern-day single-cylinder motorcycle, the Hypermotard 698 Mono, indicating a launch in the coming weeks. 

1. Most powerful single-cylinder engine in production
2. Full suite of electronic rider aids
3. Weighs 151kg (without fuel); gets fully adjustable suspension 

Ducati Hypermotard 698 engine, power, price details

The new high-strung Superquadro Mono engine is rated for 77.5hp and 63Nm. This output figure rises to 84.5hp and 67Nm when paired with the optional Termignoni racing exhaust. Featuring a 6-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch, it also offers a bidirectional quickshifter as an optional extra. The RVE variant gets the bidirectional quickshifter as standard. 

Styling remains typical Hypermotard, featuring a tall, flat bench-style seat and a beaky front fender. One notable detail is Ducati's decision to retain the twin exhaust mufflers, despite the engine being a single-cylinder configuration.

This machine is exceedingly lightweight, with the Hypermotard 698 weighing just 151kg (wet weight, excluding fuel). Suspension duties are managed by a fully-adjustable USD fork from Marzocchi and a monoshock from Sachs.. 

Braking duties are handled by a radial M4.32 monobloc caliper biting down on a 330mm disc up front. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard, which can be turned off at the rear in typical supermoto fashion. Tyres are supplied by Pirelli; the front measures 120/70-ZR17, while the rear is a 160/60-ZR17 unit, both running Diablo Rosso 4 rubber. 

A comprehensive array of electronic rider aids is available, including cornering ABS, traction control, engine braking control, 3 power modes, 4 riding modes, and launch control. Wheelie control is offered as an optional extra. All these aids are managed through a 3.5-inch LCD dash. 

The Hypermotard 698 Mono will be imported to India as a CBU and it will command a premium price tag. Due to its limited availability as well as niche appeal, it is expected to be a rare sight on Indian roads. 

Ducati Hypermotard 950 review: true to its name