Review of the Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono 2024: My Wild Ride on the Latest Italian Beast

Let’s be honest—Ducati has always had a flair for the dramatic. When I first heard about the release of the Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono 2024, I was intrigued. A “mono” configuration on a Hypermotard? Surely, Ducati was cooking up something special. Well, I’m here to tell you: it’s as wild, raw, and fun as you’d expect. Spoiler alert: I had a blast!

The First Glance: Minimalist Monster with Attitude

I remember the first time I saw the Hypermotard 698 Mono in the flesh (or should I say metal?). The design is unmistakably Ducati—sleek, aggressive, and with that unmistakable Italian flair that somehow makes it look like it’s speeding even when it’s parked. The red frame? Classic. The overall look? Like a minimalist brawler with a mischievous grin, daring you to take it for a spin.

So, of course, I did. But not before mentally preparing myself, because let’s face it, Ducati isn’t known for making casual bikes. This is no cushy, laid-back cruiser—it’s the two-wheeled equivalent of ordering a double espresso when you know you really should be getting some sleep.

The Engine: Ducati Goes Single, and It’s Pure Joy

Here’s where things get interesting: the “Mono” in the name refers to a single-cylinder engine, a departure from Ducati’s usual V-twin setups. At 698cc, this single-cylinder engine might not sound like much on paper compared to the massive powerplants we’re used to seeing from the Bologna-based brand. But don’t let the displacement fool you—this thing packs a punch.

The engine roars to life with that signature Ducati bark, but it’s got its own distinct character. There’s a raw, mechanical feeling here that makes every twist of the throttle feel like you’re directly connected to the soul of the machine. It’s not overwhelming, but it’s got enough torque to pull you out of corners with a big grin on your face. And that’s the thing—the 698 Mono is all about fun. It’s playful, rev-happy, and begs to be ridden hard.

Now, I’ve ridden bigger bikes, but the power delivery here is something special. The bike is lightweight, nimble, and begs to be thrown around corners. It almost feels like a supermoto on steroids—just without the heart attack-inducing top-end power of bigger Ducatis. Honestly, that’s a good thing. It’s fast enough to get the adrenaline pumping but not so crazy that you feel like you’re constantly teetering on the edge of disaster.

Handling: Light, Flickable, and Downright Addictive

Let’s talk handling because this is where the Hypermotard 698 Mono really shines. As soon as you get rolling, the first thing you notice is how light it feels. At just over 160 kg (about 350 pounds), it’s one of the lightest bikes in its class, and you feel it in every flick of the handlebars.

The upright riding position gives you a commanding view of the road, and the wide bars give you plenty of leverage to toss it from side to side with ease. It’s like riding a BMX bike on steroids—it just wants to play. Take it through tight city streets or a twisty mountain road, and it’ll feel like you’re riding a scalpel, surgically slicing through traffic or carving up corners.

On the highway, it’s surprisingly composed. Sure, the single-cylinder engine means you’ll feel a few more vibes at higher speeds, but it’s nothing too intrusive. Besides, this bike isn’t meant for long-haul cruising—it’s built for urban mayhem and backroad shenanigans, and it excels at both.

Suspension and Brakes: Ready for Anything

Ducati knows their riders like a bit of variety, so they’ve equipped the 2024 Hypermotard 698 Mono with fully adjustable suspension front and rear. Whether you’re bouncing over city potholes or railing through mountain switchbacks, the suspension does an excellent job of soaking up the bumps without feeling too soft.

And the brakes? Oh, they’re plenty sharp. Ducati hasn’t skimped here, either. The front end is equipped with Brembo calipers that offer strong, predictable braking power. The feel at the lever is excellent, and you’ll have all the confidence you need to dive deep into corners. Just be ready for some fun when you slam on the brakes—this bike loves to get a little cheeky with the rear end lifting up!

Pros: What’s to Love About the Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono 2024?

Lightweight Fun: At just over 160 kg, it’s a nimble, flickable machine that’s perfect for city streets and backroads.
Playful Engine: The single-cylinder 698cc engine offers enough grunt for spirited riding without feeling overwhelming.
Handling: This is where the bike really shines. It’s easy to throw around in corners and offers a level of agility that’ll make you feel like a kid again.
Ducati Style: Let’s be honest, Ducati bikes always look good, and the 698 Mono is no exception. It’s minimalist, aggressive, and unmistakably Italian.

Cons: Where the Hypermotard 698 Mono Might Fall Short

Vibrations at High Speed: The single-cylinder engine produces more vibes at highway speeds compared to multi-cylinder machines.
Lack of Touring Ability: This is a bike for short blasts, not long-distance road trips. If you’re looking for a bike to cover serious miles, you might want to look elsewhere.
Not the Most Powerful: At 698cc, it’s not a powerhouse by Ducati standards. If you’re chasing big horsepower numbers, you might feel underwhelmed.

Who Is This Bike For? Should You Buy It?

If you’re a rider who loves the thrill of quick, nimble handling and you don’t need a bike that doubles as a continent-crusher, the Hypermotard 698 Mono could be your perfect match. This bike is for those who want something playful, light, and engaging. It’s a fantastic choice for city dwellers who want a fast, fun machine to carve through traffic. But it’s just as happy being thrown into a set of twisties for a weekend blast.

It’s not for everyone, though. If you’re looking for a touring bike, or something to take on long highway rides, you might want to look at something with a bit more comfort and wind protection. But for those of us who prioritize fun over practicality, the Hypermotard 698 Mono 2024 is an absolute joy.

Final Verdict: The Most Fun You Can Have on Two Wheels?

Riding the Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono feels like a guilty pleasure. It’s a bike that encourages you to be a little bad, to twist the throttle just a little harder, and to lean into the next corner with just a little more gusto. It’s light, it’s fast, and it’s oh-so-Italian. If you’re in the market for a fun, engaging ride that stands out from the crowd, this is a serious contender.

Is it the most practical bike out there? No. But who cares when it’s this much fun?

Before You Go: Gear Up for the Ride

If you’re considering taking the plunge and getting a Hypermotard 698 Mono, make sure you’re properly equipped for the ride! Check out some of my reviews on motorcycle gear and accessories here to ensure you’ve got everything you need for your next adventure.