So, you're eyeing the Ducati Hypermotard 939 from 2016, huh? Good choice! This bike is an absolute beast, a hooligan machine disguised as a motorcycle. But before you jump in and drop your hard-earned cash, let's dive deep into what makes this bike tick, its strengths, its quirks, and whether it’s the right ride for you. We'll cover everything from the engine performance and handling to the overall riding experience and potential pitfalls. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear picture of the Hypermotard 939 and whether it deserves a spot in your garage.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 is its 937cc Testastretta 11° L-twin engine. This isn't your grandma's sewing machine motor; it's a torque-rich powerplant designed to deliver exhilarating performance. We're talking about around 113 horsepower and 72.2 lb-ft of torque. Now, those numbers might not sound astronomical compared to some of the superbike figures out there, but it's how the power is delivered that makes all the difference. The torque is available almost immediately, providing strong acceleration in virtually any gear. Whether you're pulling away from a stoplight or overtaking on the highway, the Hypermotard 939 responds with eagerness and aggression. This engine configuration makes it exceptionally fun to ride in urban environments, where quick bursts of speed and nimble handling are paramount. It’s also surprisingly capable on twisty backroads, where you can really exploit the engine's mid-range punch. The engine's character encourages playful riding. You'll find yourself constantly wanting to rev it out and feel the surge of power. It’s addictive, to say the least. The Hypermotard 939 also comes equipped with ride-by-wire throttle, which allows for different riding modes that alter the engine's behavior. These modes can be toggled to suit various riding conditions, whether it's a relaxed cruise or an aggressive attack on a canyon road. Overall, the engine is one of the standout features of the Hypermotard 939, offering a thrilling and engaging experience that will keep you grinning from ear to ear.

Handling and Ride Quality

When it comes to handling, the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 truly shines. This bike is designed to be agile and responsive, making it a joy to ride in a variety of conditions. Its lightweight chassis and wide handlebars provide excellent leverage, allowing for quick and precise steering inputs. Whether you're navigating through city traffic or carving up twisty mountain roads, the Hypermotard 939 feels incredibly nimble and easy to control. The suspension setup on the Hypermotard 939 contributes significantly to its handling prowess. The standard model comes with adjustable Kayaba forks up front and a Sachs shock in the rear, offering a good balance of comfort and control. The suspension soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road while still providing enough feedback to inspire confidence in corners. The higher-spec SP model takes things a step further with fully adjustable Öhlins suspension, offering even greater levels of performance and customization. The Brembo brakes on the Hypermotard 939 are another highlight, providing strong and consistent stopping power. The radial-mounted calipers offer excellent feel and modulation, allowing you to confidently scrub off speed when needed. The bike also comes equipped with ABS, which adds an extra layer of safety, especially in wet or slippery conditions. While the Hypermotard 939 excels in handling, the ride quality can be a bit firm, particularly on rough roads. The sporty suspension setup is designed for performance, which means it can be less forgiving than more touring-oriented bikes. However, this is a trade-off that many riders are willing to make for the bike's exceptional handling capabilities. Overall, the Hypermotard 939 offers a thrilling and engaging riding experience, with sharp handling and responsive brakes that make it a blast to ride in a variety of conditions.

Electronics and Features

The 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 comes equipped with a suite of electronics and features designed to enhance the riding experience and provide added safety. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of some modern bikes, it offers a well-rounded package that caters to both performance and convenience. One of the key features is the Ducati Safety Pack (DSP), which includes three-level ABS and eight-level Ducati Traction Control (DTC). These systems work together to provide enhanced stability and control, especially in challenging riding conditions. The ABS system prevents wheel lockup during hard braking, while the DTC system limits wheelspin to maintain traction. The Hypermotard 939 also features three riding modes: Sport, Touring, and Wet. Each mode alters the engine's power output and the intervention levels of the ABS and DTC systems. Sport mode provides the most aggressive throttle response and minimal intervention from the electronic aids, while Touring mode offers a smoother power delivery and more conservative settings. Wet mode is designed for riding in wet or slippery conditions, providing maximum intervention from the ABS and DTC systems. The bike also features a digital instrument panel that displays important information such as speed, RPM, gear position, and riding mode. While the display is functional, it's not as advanced as some of the full-color TFT displays found on newer bikes. Other notable features include LED lighting, a USB charging port, and adjustable levers. The Hypermotard 939 also has a relatively comfortable seat, although it may not be ideal for long-distance touring. Overall, the electronics and features on the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 provide a good balance of performance and convenience, enhancing the riding experience without being overly intrusive.

Potential Issues and Reliability

Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room: Ducati reliability. Look, Ducatis have a reputation, and sometimes it's not the best. However, the Hypermotard 939, especially the 2016 model, is generally considered to be fairly reliable for a Ducati. Key word being "for." That said, it's important to be aware of potential issues and maintenance requirements. One common concern with Ducatis, including the Hypermotard 939, is the cost of maintenance. Desmodromic valves, while contributing to the engine's performance, require more frequent and expensive servicing compared to traditional valve systems. Valve adjustments, in particular, can be pricey. It's crucial to factor in these maintenance costs when considering the long-term ownership of a Hypermotard 939. Another potential issue is electrical gremlins. Some owners have reported occasional electrical problems, such as sensor failures or issues with the instrument panel. While these issues aren't widespread, they're worth keeping in mind. It's always a good idea to have a qualified mechanic inspect the bike before you buy it, especially if it has high mileage or hasn't been properly maintained. Fuel pump failures have been reported, although they're not super common, it's worth researching. Check forums and owner groups for any recurring issues. Coolant leaks can be a nuisance. Inspect hoses and connections regularly. Overall, the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 is a thrilling and capable machine, but it's important to be aware of potential reliability issues and maintenance costs. Proper care and regular servicing can help minimize these issues and ensure a long and enjoyable ownership experience.

Is the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 Worth It?

So, the million-dollar question: Is the 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 worth it? Well, that depends on what you're looking for in a motorcycle. If you're seeking a bike that offers thrilling performance, agile handling, and distinctive Italian styling, then the Hypermotard 939 could be a great choice. It's a bike that's guaranteed to put a smile on your face every time you ride it. The Hypermotard 939 is particularly well-suited for urban environments and twisty backroads, where its nimble handling and torquey engine can really shine. It's also a great bike for experienced riders who appreciate a raw and engaging riding experience. However, if you're primarily looking for a comfortable long-distance touring bike or a machine that's easy to maintain, then the Hypermotard 939 may not be the best fit. Its sporty suspension and aggressive riding position can be tiring on long rides, and its maintenance costs can be higher than those of some other bikes. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a 2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 comes down to your individual needs and preferences. If you're willing to accept its quirks and maintenance requirements, you'll be rewarded with a truly exceptional riding experience. Just be sure to do your research, inspect the bike thoroughly, and factor in the cost of maintenance before making a purchase. If you do all of that, you'll have a blast. Seriously, this bike is a wheelie machine!