 Since the Hyper 698 and KTM 690 SMCR are such similar bikes, and very likely to be cross-shopped, I really wanted to do some comparisons between the two bikes. I did manage to ride the Hyper back-to-back with our 2021 KTM 690 SMCR Project Bike, and I'll say right up front, this really isn't a fair fight. Our Hyper is still bone stock, while our KTM is very well sorted, and has quite an extensive list of performance modifications. I took the Hyper on a quick 25 mile loop, then got off, and right onto the KTM to do that same loop. The KTM was better, frankly, but that was to be expected because, as with most motorcycles, the difference between stock and modified can be very substantial. Our modified KTM 690 has more low end grunt, better low RPM fueling, and sounds alot better (thanks to the Leo Vince full exhaust and Rottweiler intake). Once we do a few things to the Hyper though, especially performance mods like exhaust, ECU flash, etc, I expect it to be pretty damn close to the KTM, as their spec sheets sort of indicate. From a handling perspective, both bikes felt similar. I think I like the cockpit and ergos slightly better on the Hyper... it just seems to fit me a little better. I was surprised how tall the Ducati is though, for a supermoto, the seat height is up there. Our KTM was a little tall too, but we've added a Kouba 1" lowering link and now it's the perfect seat height for me. Both bikes are VERY confidence-inspiring to ride, and feel very nimble out on the road. I have our KTM suspension set to their recommended "Sport" settings and it can be a little harsh on rougher roads. The Ducati has fully adjustable suspension as well, and I'm currently using their "Road Sport" settings. It feels a little more plush than the KTM on our rough roads, without feeling too soft. Looks are subjective, but the Ducati looks great even in stock form. My only minor gripe is that they covered up much of the trellis frame, which was more exposed on some of the older Hypers like our 1100 S. And the swingarm of all things, looks really high end on the Duc. Our KTM looks great now that we've done the graphics kit, tail tidy and so on, but when it was stock, it wasn't nearly as attractive as the Ducati. The standout feature for me on the KTM is that orange trellis frame! I cannot wait to get a few upgrades done on the Ducati, and see how it compares to the KTM... I have a feeling they will be very very similar, with the KTM maybe having a bit more low end torque than the Ducati, which probably prefers to be ridden at higher RPM. I don't think you can go wrong with either bike though, IMHO these are the BEST types of bikes on the market for back road riding... there is no substitute for a supermoto! Shop for Ducati Hypermotard 698 Parts ! |
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