wheels
Image Credits: Ducati
Ducati has recently unveiled the world's most powerful single-cylinder engine, known as the Superquadro Mono. This thumper will feature in the upcoming Ducati Hypermotard 698 Mono, producing 77.5 PS of power and 63 Nm of torque, which can be increased to 85 PS with a Termignoni exhaust (for track use only). To commemorate this, we have taken a closer look at some of the most potent single-cylinder motorcycles ever made.
Image Credits: Aprilia
KTM 690 Duke ROffering a balance of power and agility, the 690 Duke R was known for its bonkers character with its 690cc single-cylinder engine making 75PS of power. Putting this power down was a host of electronic aids such as ride-by-wire throttle, multiple riding modes, top-tier suspension components and more.
Image Credits: Husqvarna
Husqvarna Vitpilen 701Packing the same engine as the KTM, but in a neo-hipster look is the Husqvarna Vitpilen 701. The motorcycle, which many consider to be one of the most well-designed offerings out there, makes the same 75PS of power. If the visual drama wasn’t enough to give it a more prominent identity, you may like its sibling a bit more.
Image Credits: Husqvarna
Husqvarna 701 SupermotoMeet what is considered to be the “king of supermoto”, with its upright design, sharp handling characteristics, premium WP suspension and a Brembo brake setup. Underneath, it still packs the same KTM engine that makes the same amount of power mentioned earlier.
Image Credits: Kawasaki
Kawasaki KLR650In case you’re looking for something a little more Japanese and off-road friendly? How about the unkillable Kawasaki KLR650? Decked up in its dual-sports avatar, the iconic motorcycle packs a 652cc single-cylinder engine that makes 40PS of power and 52Nm of torque.
Image Credits: KTM
KTM RC 390Of course, it’s another KTM, but the one you can buy on our shores right now. The updated KTM RC 390 is as close to a budget super-sport motorcycle as you can get. At the heart of it sits a 373cc single-cylinder engine that makes 43.5PS and 37Nm.