In popular media, the big brother always steals the spotlight from his younger sibling. Whether hitting a ball further or holding the mantle of 'cool' at school, the older child can be painted as a favorite.

But Ducati doesn't want that to happen with its motorcycle family. The Italian motorcycle manufacturer has been quick to point out that just as aggressively striking as the 1100 is, the lightweight new Hypermotard 796 features a lower seat height and brand new smooth and flexible engine to make it the perfect urban assault vehicle.

Coming with a dry weight of just 368lb and seat height of 32.5in Ducati hopes the lower Hypermotard 796 inspires confidence however and wherever it’s ridden. And the rider's assurance can look to the motorcycle's powerhouse as well. The completely new Ducati 796 engine has a bore and stroke of 88mm x 66mm, producing 81hp of power and 55.7lb-ft of torque with the smooth and very economical rideability enjoyed from all Desmodue L-Twins.

The new power unit is also equipped with an APTC ‘wet’ clutch to give a ‘slipper’ type action that prevents destabilization of the rear-end during aggressive down-shifting and also gives the extra benefit of a super-light feel at the adjustable lever, a great advantage in stop-start city traffic or during longer journeys.

The new Hypermotard 796 comes in an urban-style Dark finish with matte black tank and beak section, black frame and black wheels or, alternatively, matte white tank with contrasting matte black beak, black frame and black wheels. For the purists, an 1100 look-alike with Ducati red tank with matching beak section, red frame and black wheels gives the 796 a traditional livery.

And the Italian motorcycle manufacturer thinks all these unique qualities can beat out big brother's infamous home run that everyone is still talking about.