Ducati Hypermotard 796
The Ducati Hypermotard 796 has a top speed of 210 km/h, produces 81 hp and weighs 170 kg. Motoryk rates it 8/10.
The Ducati Hypermotard 796 was introduced in 2010 as a more accessible, mid-displacement sibling to the larger Hypermotard 1100, aimed at riders seeking the supermoto-inspired fun of the lineup without the intensity of the bigger twin. It was powered by the air-cooled 803cc Testastretta DS L-twin engine, offering a more manageable power delivery while retaining the iconic Hypermotard styling and nimble handling. It remained in production through 2012, building a loyal following for its lightweight fun-factor and approachable performance.
81 hp
Power
78 Nm
Torque
170 kg
Weight
210 km/h
Top Speed
5.5 L/100km (approximately 18.2 km/L, typical real-world average)
Fuel
Naked
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Desmo Service Costs
The 796 requires Desmodromic valve service every 7,500 miles, which can cost $600–$1,000 at a dealership. Always verify service history before buying, as skipped intervals can cause serious engine wear.
Electrical Gremlins Watch
Early models (2010–2011) had known issues with the dashboard flickering and stator/regulator-rectifier failures, which can leave you stranded. Check for aftermarket electrical upgrades or dealer fixes before purchasing.
Strong Resale Value
The Hypermotard 796 holds its value well due to its cult following and Ducati's desirable brand image. Well-maintained examples with full service records command a noticeable premium over neglected bikes.
Generations & Specs by Year
Introduced as smaller-displacement sibling to 1100, air-cooled 803cc Desmodue twin, ABS optional.
Used Buyer Review
"A brilliant used buy — if you do your homework first."
$4,500-$7,500 usedThe 796 is the sweet spot in Ducati's Hypermotard lineup — lighter than the 1100, friendlier on your wallet, and honestly more fun on real roads where you can actually use the revs. The air-cooled 803cc L-twin pulls strongly from about 4,000rpm and sounds absolutely savage through a decent aftermarket can. It rewards commitment and punishes laziness, which is exactly what a supermoto-inspired machine should do. Buying used though, you need to be smart. These bikes attract owners who ride them hard and maintain them poorly. Pull the fairings and inspect the trellis frame for crash damage — it's surprisingly common. Check the desmo service history religiously; that valve check runs $800-1,200 at a dealer and many owners skip it. Dry clutch chatter is normal and charming, but slipping is not. Budget for belts if they're overdue. Get all that sorted and you've got one of the most characterful middleweights ever built. It'll make every other bike feel beige.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Ducati Hypermotard 796 — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 2 CRITICALAsk for service history, due every 7500 miles
Listen for uneven idle and throttle stumble
Inspect clutch slave for oil seepage near engine
Check charging voltage, should read 13.5-14.5V
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Decent if maintained, expensive when neglected
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Ducati Hypermotard 796
Ktm 690 Smc R
Husqvarna 701 Supermoto
Husqvarna 701 Motard
Cfmoto Cl-x 700 Sport
Gas Gas Sm 700
Compare Ducati Hypermotard 796 Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Ducati Hypermotard 796 vs Ktm 690 Smc R
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Ducati Hypermotard 796 vs Husqvarna 701 Supermoto
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Ducati Hypermotard 796 vs Husqvarna 701 Motard
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Ducati Hypermotard 796 vs Cfmoto Cl-x 700 Sport
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Ducati Hypermotard 796 vs Gas Gas Sm 700
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Ducati Hypermotard 796 Guides
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Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Ducati Hypermotard 796? +
Desmo valve service overdue: Ask for service history, due every 7500 miles (serious) | Throttle body sync issues, rough idle: Listen for uneven idle and throttle stumble (moderate) | Clutch slave cylinder leaking: Inspect clutch slave for oil seepage near engine (moderate)
Is the Ducati Hypermotard 796 a good motorcycle? +
A brilliant used buy — if you do your homework first. Rating: 8.0/10. Best for: Experienced riders wanting characterful Italian middleweight fun. Avoid if: You skip servicing or hate dealer bills.
What is the horsepower of the Ducati Hypermotard 796? +
The Ducati Hypermotard 796 produces 81 hp @ 9,000 rpm, with 78 Nm @ 7,750 rpm of torque. Top speed: 210 km/h.
Is the Ducati Hypermotard 796 good for beginners? +
Not really — the Ducati Hypermotard 796 is better for experienced riders. Experienced riders wanting characterful Italian middleweight fun Avoid if: You skip servicing or hate dealer bills
Is the Ducati Hypermotard 796 reliable? +
Owners report 2 critical issues to watch for on the Ducati Hypermotard 796, notably: Desmo valve service overdue (Ask for service history, due every 7500 miles). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Ducati Hypermotard 796 good for daily use? +
Experienced riders wanting characterful Italian middleweight fun Fuel: 5.5 L/100km (approximately 18.2 km/L, typical real-world average).
How fast is the Ducati Hypermotard 796? +
The Ducati Hypermotard 796 reaches a top speed of 210 km/h, producing 81 hp at 170 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Ducati Hypermotard 796? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Ducati Hypermotard 796, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/ducati/hypermotard-796/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.