Ducati Multistrada V4 S – Bellezza e Potere
Have you ever wondered what would happen if you put a V4 superbike engine into an adventure bike chassis?
Ducati has done exactly this with the Multistrada V4 and its derivatives.
I had the pleasure of Ducati’s Multistrada V4 S’s company recently for a couple of weeks, and when I say it was a pleasure, I mean it.
I was a fan of the 1260 Multistrada. What’s not to like; lots of power, a great chassis, all-day comfort, tons of luggage. It wasn’t perfect though, the twin was lumpy at low speeds and needed to be revved which seemed to contradict the nature of the bike.
Now Ducati have taken the 1,158 cc V4 out of the Panigale and slipped it in. It has a lower rev limit at 11,500rpm so consequently, it ‘only’ makes 170bhp, but man this thing is fast.
On a private road, I saw 157mph on the clock and it’ll easily pick the front wheel up in 2nd, off the throttle.
Don’t get me wrong, that’s not what this bike is about. Ducati’s Multistrada is a smooth, powerful, capable and fun adventure bike that can take you just about anywhere you want to go and I mean anywhere. You could easily ride across Europe to your favourite track, spend a day embarrassing sports bikes on the track, and ride back with no problem.
The V4 engine and shorter wheelbase have added balance to the Multistrada platform, reducing vibration and making the bike more agile, with a perfect centre of gravity.
The Multistrada has Incredible aerodynamics. Even at very high speed, you can sit behind the screen in comfort, almost untouched by the wind. It makes long-distance riding much easier, reducing fatigue.
The Multistrada V4 S is the personification of a modern motorcycle, equipped with a plethora of advanced features, including; Radar-assisted cruise control: This system uses radar to detect other vehicles on the road and adjust the bike’s speed accordingly. I’ve used this technology on other manufacturers’ bikes with some trepidation. On the Ducati, the system was superb, well-calibrated and worked without issue.
Blind spot detection: This system uses radar to detect vehicles in the rider’s blind spots and warn the rider with a visual and audible signal. I didn’t think this would add any value, but it’s a great tool that helps to make your riding safer.
Ducati Skyhook Suspension EVO: This semi-active suspension system automatically adjusts the damping to provide a comfortable and responsive ride in all conditions. Incredibly effective, it works seamlessly in the background to enhance your riding experience, making the Multistrada V4S even more effective.
Ducati Cornering ABS EVO: The principle is simple. An anti-lock braking system that utilisers ECUs, sensors, actuators, and pressure regulators that work collectively in harmony, allowing you to stop the bike in the shortest possible distance, in the shortest possible time, without locking the wheels, even if you’re at full lean. In short, the brakes on the Multistrada V4 S are exceptional.
In addition to all this tech, Ducati has also extended valve clearance check intervals to 60,000 km. Impressive engineering.
Ducati has thoughtfully included some other features and options that further enhance your riding; The Multistrada V4 S comes standard with panniers and a top case. These are fantastic in practical terms, offering acres of storage. Heated grips and seats: The Multistrada V4 S has heated grips and seats, making it a comfortable ride in all weather conditions.
Just about the only criticism I have for the Multistrada V4 S is that in my brief experience, it didn’t make a great pillion bike. I do a lot of two-up riding and found the Multistrada wasn’t great. It was partly my fault. I like to ride with the bike delivering maximum power and offering maximum feedback. With a bike that makes 170 bhp and with an upright pillion position, this makes it a bit jerky for the pillion. If you turn the electronics down, softening the power delivery, it is a better pillion experience but it still wasn’t a great pillion ride.
The Ducati Multistrada V4 S is a great choice for riders who want a motorcycle that is versatile, powerful, and comfortable. It is perfect for touring, adventure riding and everyday commuting. This is an incredibly effective and practical motorcycle. As a point-to-point motorcycle it is hard to beat; part superbike, part intercontinental missile, this is quite a machine and I was sad to see it go back.
Specification:
Displacement – 1,158 cc (71 cu in)
Power – 170 hp (125 kW) @ 10,500 rpm
Torque – 12.7 kgm (125 Nm, 92 lb ft) @ 8,750 rpm
Dry Weight – 218 kg (481 lb)
Valve Clearance Check – 60,000 km (36,000 miles)
Seat Height – Adjustable – 840 mm – 860 mm (33.1 in – 33.9 in)
855 mm – 875 mm (33.7 in – 34.4 in) with high seat accessory
810 mm – 830 mm (31.9 in – 32.7 in) with low seat accessory
790 mm – 810 mm (31.1 in – 31.9 in) with low seat + low suspension kit accessory
Price from £20,495, (standard bike).
Opton 1 – Radar
Radar system.
Equipment price – £1,000.00 = Total bike price: £21,495.00
Option 2 – Travel & Radar
Rigid side panniers, Centre stand, Heated grips, Heated seats, Radar system
Equipment price – £2,500.00 = Total bike price: £22,995.00
Option 3 – Full
Rigid side panniers, Centre stand, Heated grips, Heated seats, Radar system, Akrapovic exhaust, Carbon front mudguard
Equipment price – £3,850.00 = Total bike price: £24,345.00
