Friday, 1 August 2014

A Jack Of All Trades - The Ducati HyperStrada

Ducati Hyperstrada


Special thanks to Ducati Singapore, I was given the privilege to test ride the Ducati Hyperstrada all the up to Sungai Lembing, East Coast Malaysia. Having brought it on the tarmac and a little off road, here’s how it fared! 




"Ducati Hyperstrada : Broaden the horizons of your emotions."



The new 2014 Hyperstrada sits on an 821cc Testastretta 11° 4 valve water-cooled cylinder engine, having the capability to produce up to 110hp. 


When it comes to riding, Safety always comes first. 
And the Hyperstrada certainly has it. 

Brembo Brakes

Designed to maximize full control of the bike with safety riding, the Ducati Safety Pack (DSP) is built into the bike, featuring Brembo braking system with Bosch ABS and DTC (Ducati Traction Control), adjustable over 8 levels that controls rear wheel slip. 

Ducati Hyperstrada Digital Meter

Paired with a set of dedicated ergonomics, the Hyperstrada exudes practical versatility, offering 3 different riding modes which allows the rider to choose from his preferred riding style to the suitability for different environmental conditions. They are:

Sports / Touring / Urban



Think of a cross-over between the HyperMotard, HyperMotard SP and the MultiStrada = HyperStrada. From a chilled city ride, to touring along coastal roads or even burning some tyres at the track, the Hyperstrada has it all. 




Equipped with the latest Ducati technology, the Hyperstrada model seems less menacing compared to the Hypermotard family and offers more features aimed at Touring.

Getting onto the North South Highway, there stands my chance to bring the Hyperstrada to the test! 



Starting off with Urban 

At 75hp with progressive “low” torque, the ride feels mild and relaxed with a very gradual acceleration response. It has a wide 70 degrees turning ratio, making handling easy. This makes a friendly bike, especially for those who are new to big bikes.  

However, it does get a bit too hot when idling at the traffic light, with upper back thigh being exposed to the heat.


Progressing onto Touring

At 110hp with “medium” torque, the acceleration is more gradual yet still very manageable. I must say, the DTC and ABS significantly enhances the stability and efficiency of braking, which is extremely beneficial especially when touring because with an average traveling speed of 150km/h, having to brake safely and steadily in time to prevent a collision or dodge debris is crucial.


Made more for touring, the Hyperstrada comes with a 16L fuel tank and it’s fuel efficiency ensures you to last at least 250km before each refuel stop.
A visor to minimize wind blast, comfortable upright sitting position with a wider seat measurement for when you’ve got a pillion, and 50L side bags that are easily fitted on/removed.


It comes with the bonus of having two 12V power outlets located under the seat so you could keep your electronics (mobile,GPS etc) running without being afraid of them running out of battery. 



With Pirelli Scorpion Trail tyres as a standard, excellent traction in all weather conditions and superb fuel efficiency is guaranteed. 

(Credit to hyperstrada.com)
Finishing first with Sports

At 110hp with “high” torque, the power delivery is direct and immediate at a light twist of the throttle. The bike climbed from 0 – 170km/h with ease and telling you it could go some more. I don’t feel the harshness of the engine brake or the “pull back” feeling when going up the gears.
It is more reassuring to have it's wheel base at 1500mm to increase stability even at high speeds.

The bike comes to life almost instantaneously and with the DTC pre-set at level 1 (the highest), you can brake confidently at your corners while on the track and take the exit smoothly. 


Off Road Permormance

With such a reactive acceleration response, the Hyperstrada climbs over loose rocks uphill pretty easily, yet without a power that is too overbearing.

On slighty muddy and sandy grounds, the adjustable DTC comes into action that helps maintain traction similarly to when it’s on tarmac.



Change Your Mode Of Riding, ON THE GO

Yes, regardless of what speeds you are traveling at, the Hyperstrada extends it’s versatility further by allowing riders to switch in between riding modes, even while on the go.

How?

Choose your preferred riding mode on the Menu bar.
Close and open the throttle.

That’s it!


Inspired by the sporting spirit of the 1199 Panigale, the Hyperstrada boasts the latest cast-aluminium 10-spoke wheels that contributes to it’s sleek design. 



With such sophisticated looks and practical versatile components combined into one, the Hyperstrada has indeed widened the horizons of the entire riding experience.

If that’s what you’re looking for, what else are you waiting for? ;)



Ducati Singapore
Address: 9 Kaki Bukit Road 1 #01-01, Eunos Technolink, Singapore
Tel: 6631 8166
Opening Hours: 9:00am - 6:30pm