Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Ducati Hypermotard 939, specifically the 2016 model. If you're wondering whether this bike lives up to the hype and if it’s worth your hard-earned cash, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll break down everything from its engine performance and handling to its aesthetics and overall riding experience. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of the Ducati Hypermotard 939

The Ducati Hypermotard 939, released in 2016, marked a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the 821. This model brought a larger engine, refined electronics, and updated styling, making it a compelling option in the hypermotard category. Ducati aimed to blend the agility of a supermoto with the power and sophistication of a modern sportbike. The Hypermotard 939 was designed for riders who crave excitement and versatility, whether carving through twisty mountain roads or navigating urban environments.

The bike's core features included a 937cc Testastretta 11° L-twin engine, producing around 113 horsepower and 72.2 lb-ft of torque. This engine was a significant improvement over the 821, offering more usable power and torque across the rev range. The Hypermotard 939 also came equipped with advanced electronics, such as ride-by-wire throttle, multiple riding modes (Sport, Touring, and Urban), Ducati Safety Pack (including ABS and traction control), and a user-friendly LCD instrument panel. These features enhanced the bike's performance and safety, making it accessible to a wider range of riders.

Visually, the Hypermotard 939 retained the aggressive and minimalist styling that defined the Hypermotard family. Its sharp lines, high-mounted exhaust, and exposed trellis frame gave it a distinctive and attention-grabbing appearance. The bike was available in several color schemes, including Ducati Red, Star White Silk, and a special edition SP version with unique graphics and premium components. Overall, the Ducati Hypermotard 939 represented a significant step forward in terms of performance, technology, and design, solidifying its place as a top contender in the hypermotard segment. For anyone considering a fun, versatile, and powerful motorcycle, the 2016 Hypermotard 939 is definitely worth a closer look.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 is its 937cc Testastretta 11° L-twin engine. This engine isn't just a powerhouse; it's a finely tuned machine designed to deliver a thrilling riding experience. Producing approximately 113 horsepower and 72.2 lb-ft of torque, the Hypermotard 939 offers a significant upgrade in performance compared to the previous 821 model. The increase in displacement and various engine enhancements result in a more responsive and torquey ride, making it an absolute blast to ride in various conditions.

The engine's power delivery is one of its standout features. Ducati engineers focused on providing usable power across the entire rev range. This means you're not just getting a surge of power at high RPMs; instead, you experience a smooth and consistent pull from low to mid-range. This makes the Hypermotard 939 incredibly versatile, whether you're navigating city streets or attacking twisty mountain roads. The engine's responsiveness is further enhanced by the ride-by-wire throttle, which provides precise control and seamless transitions.

In terms of real-world performance, the Hypermotard 939 excels in several key areas. Acceleration is brisk, allowing you to quickly overtake traffic and power out of corners. The bike's mid-range torque is particularly impressive, providing ample grunt for effortless acceleration and confident corner exits. The engine also features Ducati's signature Desmodromic valve actuation, which ensures precise valve control and contributes to the engine's overall performance and reliability. One thing to note is the engine's character; it's a Ducati L-twin, so you'll feel the characteristic vibrations and hear the distinctive exhaust note, adding to the bike's overall charm and appeal. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the world of hypermotards, the Hypermotard 939's engine performance is sure to impress.

Handling and Suspension

When it comes to handling, the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 is a true standout. It’s designed to be agile, responsive, and incredibly fun to ride, whether you're carving through twisty roads or navigating city streets. The bike's lightweight chassis, combined with its well-tuned suspension, delivers a riding experience that is both exhilarating and confidence-inspiring.

The Hypermotard 939 features a trellis frame, which is a hallmark of Ducati motorcycles. This frame design provides excellent rigidity and contributes to the bike's overall handling prowess. The bike's geometry is optimized for quick and precise steering, allowing you to easily flick it from side to side in corners. The wide handlebars provide ample leverage, giving you even more control and confidence when maneuvering through tight spaces.

In terms of suspension, the Hypermotard 939 is equipped with a 43mm Kayaba upside-down fork up front and a Sachs monoshock in the rear. Both the front and rear suspension are fully adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune the ride to your preferences and riding style. The suspension does a great job of soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Whether you're dealing with rough pavement or smooth asphalt, the Hypermotard 939's suspension keeps you planted and confident.

The bike's braking system is also top-notch, featuring Brembo brakes with ABS. The front brakes consist of dual 320mm discs with radial-mounted calipers, providing excellent stopping power and feel. The rear brake is a 245mm disc with a single-piston caliper. The ABS system is part of the Ducati Safety Pack and can be adjusted or turned off completely, depending on your preferences. Overall, the Hypermotard 939's handling and suspension are a perfect match for its powerful engine, creating a riding experience that is both thrilling and confidence-inspiring. If you're looking for a bike that can handle anything you throw at it, the Hypermotard 939 is definitely worth considering.

Technology and Features

The 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 isn’t just about raw power and aggressive styling; it also packs a suite of advanced technology and features designed to enhance the riding experience. Ducati has equipped this model with several electronic aids that improve safety, performance, and overall usability. Let’s delve into some of the key technological highlights.

One of the standout features of the Hypermotard 939 is its ride-by-wire throttle system. This system eliminates the mechanical connection between the throttle and the engine, replacing it with electronic sensors and actuators. The ride-by-wire system allows for more precise throttle control and enables the implementation of multiple riding modes. The Hypermotard 939 offers three riding modes: Sport, Touring, and Urban. Each mode adjusts the engine's power output, throttle response, and traction control settings to suit different riding conditions and preferences.

The Ducati Safety Pack (DSP) is another crucial feature, comprising ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and DTC (Ducati Traction Control). The ABS system prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, enhancing safety and stability. The DTC system monitors wheel speed and reduces engine power if it detects wheelspin, helping to maintain traction and control, especially in slippery conditions. Both ABS and DTC are adjustable, allowing you to customize the level of intervention to match your riding style and experience.

The Hypermotard 939 also features a user-friendly LCD instrument panel that displays essential information, such as speed, RPM, gear position, and riding mode. The instrument panel is easy to read, even in bright sunlight, and provides all the information you need at a glance. Other notable features include self-canceling turn signals, a lightweight lithium-ion battery, and a comfortable rider seat. Overall, the Hypermotard 939's technology and features demonstrate Ducati's commitment to innovation and rider-centric design, making it a well-rounded and capable motorcycle.

Styling and Design

The Ducati Hypermotard 939 (2016) is a head-turner, no doubt. Its styling and design scream aggressive, modern, and undeniably Ducati. The bike's aesthetics are a key part of its appeal, blending form and function to create a motorcycle that looks as good as it performs. Let's break down some of the design elements that make the Hypermotard 939 so visually striking.

One of the most distinctive features of the Hypermotard 939 is its minimalist and edgy design. The bike's sharp lines, high-mounted exhaust, and exposed trellis frame give it a raw and purposeful look. The trellis frame, a signature of Ducati motorcycles, is not only functional but also adds to the bike's visual appeal. The frame is finished in a contrasting color, highlighting its intricate design and adding a touch of sophistication.

The Hypermotard 939's high-mounted exhaust is another eye-catching element. The dual exhaust pipes are positioned under the seat, giving the bike a unique and aggressive stance. The exhaust system is not just for show; it also contributes to the bike's performance by optimizing exhaust flow and reducing weight. The bike's bodywork is kept to a minimum, exposing the mechanical components and emphasizing its raw and unadulterated nature.

The Hypermotard 939 is available in several color schemes, including Ducati Red, Star White Silk, and a special edition SP version with unique graphics. The Ducati Red color scheme is a classic choice, showcasing the bike's sporty and aggressive character. The Star White Silk color scheme offers a more subtle and sophisticated look. The SP version features unique graphics and premium components, setting it apart from the standard models. Overall, the Hypermotard 939's styling and design are a perfect reflection of its performance capabilities, making it a motorcycle that is both visually stunning and incredibly fun to ride.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 into its strengths and weaknesses to give you a balanced view. No bike is perfect, and understanding the pros and cons is crucial before making a purchase.

Pros:

• Powerful Engine: The 937cc Testastretta engine delivers a thrilling riding experience with ample power and torque across the rev range.
• Agile Handling: The lightweight chassis and well-tuned suspension make the Hypermotard 939 incredibly nimble and fun to ride in various conditions.
• Advanced Technology: Features like ride-by-wire throttle, multiple riding modes, and Ducati Safety Pack (ABS and DTC) enhance performance and safety.
• Aggressive Styling: The bike's sharp lines, high-mounted exhaust, and exposed trellis frame give it a distinctive and eye-catching appearance.
• Versatile Performance: The Hypermotard 939 is equally capable of carving through twisty roads and navigating city streets, making it a versatile choice for different riding scenarios.

Cons:

• Seat Comfort: The seat can be uncomfortable for long rides, especially for riders who prefer a more plush and supportive seat.
• Limited Wind Protection: The bike's minimalist design offers little wind protection, which can be a drawback on long highway rides.
• Maintenance Costs: Ducati motorcycles can be expensive to maintain, with higher service costs compared to some other brands.
• Heat Management: The engine can generate a significant amount of heat, which can be uncomfortable in hot weather conditions.
• Fuel Economy: The Hypermotard 939's fuel economy is not the best, especially when ridden aggressively. You might find yourself visiting the gas station more frequently than you'd like.

Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 Worth It?

So, the big question: Is the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 worth it? After thoroughly examining its performance, handling, technology, styling, and potential drawbacks, here’s the final verdict.

For riders who prioritize a thrilling and engaging riding experience, the Hypermotard 939 is definitely worth considering. Its powerful engine, agile handling, and advanced technology make it an absolute blast to ride in various conditions. Whether you're carving through twisty mountain roads or navigating city streets, the Hypermotard 939 delivers a level of excitement and fun that few other motorcycles can match.

However, it's important to consider the bike's potential drawbacks, such as seat comfort, limited wind protection, and maintenance costs. If you're planning to use the Hypermotard 939 primarily for long highway rides, you might find the lack of wind protection and seat comfort to be an issue. Additionally, Ducati motorcycles can be expensive to maintain, so you'll need to factor in higher service costs compared to some other brands.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not the Hypermotard 939 is worth it depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're willing to compromise on some of the bike's drawbacks in exchange for its thrilling performance and unique styling, then the Hypermotard 939 is definitely worth a look. But if you prioritize comfort, practicality, and low maintenance costs, you might want to consider other options. Overall, the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 is a fantastic motorcycle that offers a unique and engaging riding experience, making it a top contender in the hypermotard segment.