Here’s Ducati’s factory rider, Nicky Hayden, in a spot for the new 2013 Ducati Hypermotard called, “License to Thrill.” This cheeky advert sees the MotoGP rider avert his eyes from his lovely brunette date to the new motard parked outside. As the girl leaves the table to freshen up, Hayden uses the opportunity to take the bike for a spin… on a track. Ducati likens the bike to the “bold, agile and fun” qualities Hayden needed pull off this maneuver.

The bike will be offered in three trim levels: the standard Hypermotard, higher-spec’d Hypermotard SP, and the cross-over Hyperstrada, which blends all the character of a motard with that of a touring bike. Each bike will be powered by the same liquid-cooled, Testastretta 11°, L-twin motor as well offer selectable Riding Modes, Power Modes, the Ducati Safety Pack (ABS + DTC) and RbW (Ride by Wire) technology . The SP model comes standard with fully adjustable suspension – Marzocchi up front, Ohlins in the back – aluminum handle bars, forged Marchesini wheels wrapped in Pirelli Supercorsa SP tires and some carbon fiber bits and bobs.  It’s also the lightest of the bunch at 194kg.

The Hyperstrada, conversely,  borrows half its name from Ducati’s long-range touring bike, the Multistrada.  This cross-over then, is the most “civil” of the three, aimed towards – you guessed it – touring.  It sees a different spec sheet which includes; raised handlebars, a 50 l (13.2 gal) semi-rigid side panniers with incorporated supports, touring windshield, touring seat, passenger grab handle, centre stand, larger front and rear mudguards, engine sump guard and two 12 V power outlets.  It gets a different set of rubbers too, the dirt ready Pirelli Scorpion Trails.  As you can imagine, it’s also the heaviest of the group, weighing in at 204kg.

I  really like the idea of a cross-over, hyper-tourer.  The Ducati Hypermotard always seemed like an excellent all-rounder to me if not for the lack comfort/ergonomics.  Now with the addition of a touring seat, panniers and raised bars, the Hyperstrada will give Ducati’s motard family the extended range capabilities without sacrificing performance.

For a full list of specs on all three bikes click here.

There’s also a cameo by ex-MotoGP/Superbike racer Ruben Xaus – who actually tested the Hypermotard back when it was first launched. That video is posted below.

Related:

MCN tests the new Ducati Hypermotard