The Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono Nera is Ducati’s latest interpretation of the single-cylinder supermoto formula, but unlike the rough-and-ready machines the category is traditionally known for, the Italian manufacturer has approached this project with a distinctly high-performance mindset. The Nera version introduces a stealthy blacked-out finish to the range, while retaining the same mechanical package aimed squarely at lightweight road and track-focused supermoto riding.
Engine
At the centre of the bike sits Ducati’s new 659 cc Superquadro Mono engine, a liquid-cooled single-cylinder motor developed using technology derived directly from the company’s Panigale programme. Ducati claims 77.5 hp at 9,750 rpm and 63 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm, placing it among the most powerful production singles currently available.
What makes the engine particularly interesting is the engineering behind it. The motor uses Desmodromic valve timing, titanium inlet valves and an oversized 116 mm bore, technologies more commonly associated with Ducati superbikes than with a single-cylinder machine. Unlike many large singles that deliver their power early before running out of breath, the 698 Mono is designed to rev aggressively, carrying power all the way to a 10,250 rpm limiter. A six-speed gearbox comes standard alongside a slipper clutch, while the Nera model also receives Ducati Quick Shift for clutchless up and down shifts.
Suspension and Chassis
The chassis follows a lightweight philosophy, using a steel trellis frame paired with a lightweight aluminium swingarm. Ducati claims a ready-to-ride weight of 151 kg without fuel, keeping the bike firmly within traditional supermoto territory despite its premium specification.
Suspension duties are handled by fully adjustable 45 mm Marzocchi upside-down forks with 215 mm of travel at the front, while the rear features a fully adjustable Sachs monoshock offering 240 mm of travel. The setup reflects the bike’s intended use, combining long suspension travel with adjustability suited to aggressive road riding and occasional track use.
Brakes
Braking hardware is equally serious. Up front sits a large 330 mm disc paired with a Brembo M4.32 radial caliper, while the rear uses a 245 mm disc setup. Ducati has also integrated Cornering ABS with a dedicated Slide-by-Brake function designed specifically for supermoto-style riding, allowing controlled rear-wheel slides under braking.
Wheels and Tyres
The Hypermotard sticks to classic supermoto wheel sizing with 17-inch wheels front and rear, fitted with a 120-section front tyre and a 160-section rear. Ducati also uses lightweight cast wheels and aluminium brake disc flanges in an effort to reduce unsprung mass and improve agility.
Ergonomics
Ergonomically, the Hypermotard remains very much a purpose-built supermoto. The tall 904 mm seat height, upright riding position and wide handlebars place the rider high above traffic while encouraging active movement through corners. The bike is narrow through the middle and physically compact, which suits urban riding and rapid direction changes. At the same time, the minimalist bodywork and exposed riding position make it clear that long-distance comfort was never the primary objective.
Electronics
Electronics are where the Ducati separates itself from more traditional single-cylinder rivals. The Hypermotard 698 Mono Nera comes equipped with Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, Engine Brake Control, Power Launch and multiple riding modes.
Ducati specifically tuned the electronics package to support supermoto riding techniques, including controlled wheelies and rear-wheel slides. The bike effectively borrows electronic architecture from Ducati’s larger superbike range and adapts it to a much lighter and more playful platform.
Rather than building a stripped-back commuter with long-travel suspension, Ducati has approached the Hypermotard 698 Mono Nera as a high-specification performance machine that simply happens to use one cylinder. It combines lightweight supermoto proportions with premium chassis components, advanced rider aids and an engine that revs far beyond what most riders expect from a big single.
