Ducati announces 796 cc version of its popular Hypermotard

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Ducati unveiled a new version of its twitchy little torque monster today. The Italian manufacturer’s much-loved Hypermotard will soon be available in a 796 cc version for $2,000 less than its 1,100 cc older brother.

Final specs for the bike aren’t yet available, but the mini Hypermotard will be lighter weight with a lower seat height without sacrificing much of its Ritalin-esque appeal. The new 796 L-twin is a brand-new powerplant for Ducati, boasting a respectable 81 horsepower and 56 pound-feet of torque from its 368-pound dirt bike-inspired body. While the chassis has been redesigned to incorporate a new frame layout and the clutch is being upgraded for lighter action, the single-sided swingarm remains the same.

Ducatisti who want to see the bike up close and personal will need to visit Milan in November for the EICMA International Motorcycle show. Or they can wait until December, when the bike is expected at U.S. dealers -- just in time for Christmas.

-- Susan Carpenter