Joined Nov 2012
1K Posts | 9+
Mobile Al.
Test rode a black Hypermotard this morning at my local big box store and found it very favorable!
Seat hight was a little taller than expected for my 32" inseam but it didn't put me off at all, sitting in the saddle placed me a little more forward than expected but farther back than the air cooled style motard and once i was under way it wasn't noticeable.
Engine noise wasn't anything unusual for a Duc so bonus there for the new engine design.
Seat height to foot peg ratio was good with a proper bent to my knee, not too little or too much. I circled the parking lot a few times to get a feel for the old girl before entering traffic anticipating lots of pull upon acceleration. Was in Touring mode and did not notice any twitchy throttle anywhere or in any mode even at slow speed. Acceleration was nice but not as strong as anticipated even in sport mode but you must remember this is a new not broken in motor so things will only get better and the grins will get bigger. Exhaust note was pleasant not overly loud for those not interested in hearing their Duc's. Breaks were strong and comforting, i was not able to engage the ABS so cannot comment on that. Cable activated clutch was not even noticeable the fact that it was a cable would surprise most with its smoothness. Slipper clutch did its job on some hard downshifting and did not allow the rear to skid. Found it to be very light and nimble as expected for handling it really feels like a big dirt bike which is exactly the intent! The turn signals have standard bulbs installed not LEDs which make them less expensive and easily upgradable if so desired. Mirrors could be a little bigger and wider but thats just compared to what I'm used to. All in all its a very favorable package and I eagerly await my Strada to arrive so we may begin our lives together!
Swoon!
Seat hight was a little taller than expected for my 32" inseam but it didn't put me off at all, sitting in the saddle placed me a little more forward than expected but farther back than the air cooled style motard and once i was under way it wasn't noticeable.
Engine noise wasn't anything unusual for a Duc so bonus there for the new engine design.
Seat height to foot peg ratio was good with a proper bent to my knee, not too little or too much. I circled the parking lot a few times to get a feel for the old girl before entering traffic anticipating lots of pull upon acceleration. Was in Touring mode and did not notice any twitchy throttle anywhere or in any mode even at slow speed. Acceleration was nice but not as strong as anticipated even in sport mode but you must remember this is a new not broken in motor so things will only get better and the grins will get bigger. Exhaust note was pleasant not overly loud for those not interested in hearing their Duc's. Breaks were strong and comforting, i was not able to engage the ABS so cannot comment on that. Cable activated clutch was not even noticeable the fact that it was a cable would surprise most with its smoothness. Slipper clutch did its job on some hard downshifting and did not allow the rear to skid. Found it to be very light and nimble as expected for handling it really feels like a big dirt bike which is exactly the intent! The turn signals have standard bulbs installed not LEDs which make them less expensive and easily upgradable if so desired. Mirrors could be a little bigger and wider but thats just compared to what I'm used to. All in all its a very favorable package and I eagerly await my Strada to arrive so we may begin our lives together!
Swoon!
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