Ducati has evolved the 937cc version of its adventure tourer with the new Multistrada V2 announced earlier today. The new bike loses 11 pounds compared to the Multistrada 950, and will be available in two versions.
The V2 S model receives electronic, semi-active suspension, among other changes over the standard Multistrada V2.
Here is the press release from Ducati:
- The Multistrada V2 is the new gateway to the Multistrada universe: a comfortable, fun to ride, versatile and technologically advanced twin-cylinder bike
- 5 kg lighter than the previous version and with improved ergonomics, the Multistrada V2 is the perfect bike to experience the beauty of travelling every day
- The bike will be available at Ducati dealerships from November 2021, also in a 35-kW version for A2 licence holders
Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), 30th September 2021 – The first episode of the Ducati World Première 2022 web series (link to the video here) is dedicated by the Borgo Panigale manufacturer to the world of travel, with the presentation of the new Multistrada V2: the ideal bike to enjoy every route, versatile in everyday use and in the city, always with the sportiness and unmistakable style that characterize every Ducati.
With the Multistrada V2 project, the Borgo Panigale company has worked to further evolve the twin-cylinder of the family of Ducati dual bikes, creating a 360° bike, increasingly intuitive, comfortable, fun and accessible.
The new Multistrada V2 is a technologically advanced motorcycle, with an extremely complete electronic package and represents the perfect gateway to the Ducati tourer universe, thanks also to the introduction of the 35-kW version for A2 licence holders.
During the development phases of this bike the main points of focus were ergonomics, weight reduction, engine updates and a series of upgrades that follow the philosophy of “continuous improvement”.
The design of the Multistrada V2 is elegant and sporty at the same time, perfectly in line with the stylistic and recognizable canons of the Borgo Panigale family of dual bikes. A style characterized by fluid lines, clean surfaces and the characteristic and distinctive balance between the important front volume and the slenderness and lightness of the rear. The Multistrada V2 also features new refined graphics, which shows the name of the bike on both sides.
The new Multistrada V2 is equipped with the latest evolution of the 937 cc Testastretta 11° unit. The desmodromic distribution engine, four valves per cylinder, water-cooled, delivers 113 horsepower and approximately 10 kgm of maximum torque*. This twin-cylinder is very linear, manageable and smooth at low revs, and is equipped with a torque that is always ready and vigorous, which if necessary can release all Ducati’s typical sporty and adrenaline-pumping character. Consistent and robust, the engine has extended maintenance intervals, with oil change every 15,000 km and valve clearance check every 30,000 km.
The evolution of the Testastretta 11° mounted on the new Multistrada V2 features important improvements: new connecting rods, new 8-disc hydraulic clutch and an updated gearbox, which guarantees greater fluidity and precision in shifting, also facilitating the engagement of neutral. An even more appreciable progress in use in conjunction with the quick shifter, now with a further optimized operating strategy.
The bike’s chassis is agile and intuitive, with a 19″ front wheel that ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, always with the right level of reactivity and precision. Extremely versatile, the bike is also ideal for urban use, thanks to the effectiveness of the Ducati Skyhook Suspension EVO semi-active suspension system (standard on the S version), which can absorb roughness and unevenness of the ground and always guarantee the ideal set-up of the vehicle, improving safety and comfort.
Important development work has been made on the ergonomics of the bike, to make it more comfortable and more intuitive, able to put any rider at ease in any situation. The height has been reduced to 830 mm, with a redesigned shape of the saddle which is now narrower and more compact between the rider’s legs to allow you to easily touch the ground with your feet thanks to an inseam arch of only 1790mm.
These changes provide safety when the bike is stationary and improve confidence when manoeuvring at low speed even with a passenger and full cases. Furthermore, in the Ducati Performance catalogue a low seat and a lowered suspension kit are available which, combined, allow you to reach a height of 790mm.
The work on the seat also focused on riding comfort: the new shape of the saddle provides a flat area that guarantees the rider freedom of movement in the longitudinal direction, improving the level of comfort and allowing anyone to find the optimal position.
The riding position is now more comfortable with the new footpegs inherited from the Multistrada V4 which, thanks to a 10 mm increase in distance from the seat, ensure the right amount of room also for taller riders, preventing them from bending their legs excessively, and thus allowing a more restful position during long journeys.
Another key area of improvement is the reduction in the bike’s weight, which, through work on many elements, has resulted in a reduction of 5 kg in weight compared to the Multistrada 950.
The engine update has produced a saving of about 2 kg, including the clutch (1.5 kg) and its cover, gearbox drum and connecting rods. Various parts of the vehicle have been lightened, including the mirrors, derived from Multistrada V4, the front brake disc flanges and the rims: the new Multistrada V2 mounts rims derived from the Multistrada V4, which are about 1.7 kg lighter, thus generating an important improvement in the dynamic behaviour of the vehicle. Spoked wheels are also available in the Ducati Performance catalogue, which have been significantly lightened.
The Multistrada V2 is equipped as standard with a state-of-the-art electronic package that offers everything you need to travel in comfort and safety. The package includes ABS Cornering, which guarantees a high degree of safety when braking even when cornering, Vehicle Hold Control, which makes starting on sloping roads easy, Ducati Traction Control, the four Riding Modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Enduro) completely configurable by the user and the new featured Ducati Brake Light system which, in the event of sudden braking, automatically activates the flashing of the rear light in order to signal the condition of sudden slowing down appropriately.
In the S version the journey becomes 5-star thanks to a benchmark full-optional package for the segment, which sees the addition of the Skyhook electronic suspension, Cruise Control, full-LED headlight equipped with Ducati Cornering Lights function which optimizes the illumination of the roadway based on the lean of the motorcycle, Ducati Quick Shift Up & Down, Hands Free system, a high resolution 5” colour TFT dashboard with intuitive interface and backlit handlebar controls.
The colour range consists of the classic “Ducati Red” colour with black rims, available for both Multistrada V2 and Multistrada V2 S, together with the new “Street Grey” livery with black frame and “GP Red” rims, which can only be ordered for the version S.
For the Multistrada V2 family there are two trim levels that can be ordered directly from the factory. The Essential trim is available for both Multistrada V2 and Multistrada V2 S, while the Travel trim, with side bags, heated grips and central stand, can only be ordered for the S version.
The Multistrada V2 will be available in dealerships in the Ducati network starting from November 2021.
The Ducati Performance catalogue also includes a series of specifically designed accessories to enhance the character and qualities of the Multistrada V2.
On all models of the Multistrada family, Ducati offers the exclusive “4Ever Multistrada” warranty, valid for 4 years with unlimited mileage that relies on the service offered by the entire network of dealers of the Bologna-based company**.
The dynamic video presenting the Multistrada V2, filmed on the roads of Tuscany in full “Extraordinary Journey” style, is available on the Ducati YouTube channel.
*Only in countries where Euro5 legislation is in force
**Only for EU countries
Given all the negative comments about the beak, mfgs should see this as an opportunity to creatively restyle Nose Pieces into something that’s a plus. On paper, this sounds like a possible replacement for my 2016 KTM Super Duke GT that has been trouble free, fits my use and pegs my fun meter. I’m open minded, maybe I would like the V2 better after a good test ride.
I’ve never had the chance to ride the beaked version of the Multistrada, I’m not sure I would even, given the chance. However, I did get to spend a good amount of time through my favorite roads on the latest Triumph Speed Twin this weekend. Sure, two completely different bikes but it’s difficult to fault the styling and performance of the Triumph. I’ve ridden four different Ducatis and all but one had unacceptable handling (2001 750 Super Sport) while looking absolutely gorgeous. Maybe Ducati made the latest Multistradas handle and perform nicely but completely forgot that a motorcycle was supposed to look good at the same time. If Triumph can do it, certainly Ducati can.
I like it because it has NO RADAR!!
I had a 950s. I liked everything about it except it was too damn tall / tippy/ top heavy for me (5’7″). The skyhook suspension, and especially the ability to fine tune the settings within each mode, was great. But, a few times I stopped for gas at pumps where the ground sloped slightly to the left, and I could not get the bike off the kickstand with my left leg, I had to roll the bike to flat ground before I re-mounted. The handlebars were so high and wide that I felt like I was going to drop it every time I pushed it off the center stand. I was very surprised by the ergos because I had previously owned 2 different Multi 1200’s. I just got tired of the stress of feeling like it was too big for me so I sold it. Full disclosure I have had a Multi 1100, 2x 1200, 950s, and ST3, and never had any issues other than the jiffy-pop gas tanks.
If you are tall enough for this bike, you won’t be disappointed.
I don’t understand all this beak revulsion. Almost all high-performance vehicles have a “beak.” Corvettes have a beak, it’s just spread over a wider area. Formula I and Indy cars have beaks. Hydroplanes have beaks, many have two beaks, LOL. F-18’s have beaks. Beaks repulse you? Resign yourselves to the fact that you don’t like sport bike styling. Move on. Buy a Fatboy and be happy.
In all those other cases you cite, the beak doesn’t suck
It is simple:
the prevalent market is USA. Since so much revered symbol there is EAGLE, they correctly assume it will be liked. Thus everything on wheels has a beak of sort.
You are a tiny minority. But, you have a right, under the Constitution, to disagree – written right under the symbol of Bald Eagle.
Regarding all the complaints about the beak, it is the same size and shape as the beak on the 2015 model which was a tempering of the style of beak that was first seen on the 2010 model. I get that some people don’t like it but to be complaining about it after 12 years is a little “behind the curve”.
If I see one more bike with a beak I’m gonna lose it. Even in the press photos they’re riding asphalt. Why the stupid beak? I’m losing it,
I don’t find this bike entirely unattractive. Yea the beak is kinda pointy. So is the one on my NC 750X unfortunately, but I try and ignore it. This is probably a great bike overall.
My problem is I have had 2 relatives and a good friend who have had recent Ducati’s and they have had enough issues that 2 of the 3 traded them for something else. The other won’t sell because his was a wedding gift from his wife so it’s a sentimental thing, but he won’t ride it more than 25 miles one way from home.
I know some people say they have ridden tens of thousands of of miles on Ducati’s with no issues, but I only know 3 people personally who have owned Ducati’s lately, and none of them have been that lucky.
Then again todd hasn’t had any luck with Hondas lol, and my 2018 Yamaha FJR required a complete teardown and transmission replacement due to defective gears (recall..all 2016-2020s) so who knows.
Mickey,
Is yours a DCT model?
Yep, thought I’d give one a try. Pretty nice actually and it gets amazing gas mileage. Unfortunately had to give up big power to get it, but I’m learning to live with that.
I had a VFR12X w/DCT and loved it except it was too big at slow speeds. It was light bending fast though. I wish Direk would review one.
Cool. I’ve only ever seen one VFR 1200. Would love to ride one, std or dct.
The tall, and bulburous frontal appendage would be less offensive, if the seat was a normal horizontal flat fill from the back step to the tank, instead of shaped like a catchers mitt for a Kardashian butt.
Absolute lame copy of the magnificent class-leading Harley-Davidson Pan America. Sorry spaghettios, nice try but no cigar. With the known abysmal build quality from the Italians, only people with immense self-hate will buy this.
Not sure how this is a copy? The Multistrada has been around quite a while in both V2 and V4 versions. You could make an argument that the Harley is better which I am sure would be debatable, but a copy it isn’t.
Where to start? Huls has no clue. Let’s hope Huls is simply ignorant,and not a deliberate troll.
Right on both counts. He is an ignorant troll
Truth hurts. Small people will resort to namecalling.
This motorcycle with it’s absurd styling will quickly fall by the wayside. Or it will leave you stranded with electrical problems, which the Italians are known for.
So if your hobby is chasing weird electrical gremlins and you have plenty of spare time to do it, then go ahead and buy this machine.
Don’t forget to keep us updated!!
“Small people will resort to namecalling.” Said one who just typed, “Sorry spaghettios” in reference to an Italian brand. Ok.
The only name I’d call Huls might be “misinformed”. Spaghettios was a purely American product, released in the 1960’s by Campbell Soup (an American company), as a “less messy” form of spaghetti for kids. This was done through Campbell’s “Franco-American” brand, which they had owned for half a century at that point, and whose origins were French-Canadian, not Italian. In fact, spaghetti is widely believed to have originated in China, and brought back to Italy by Marco Polo.
But mostly, you can criticize the Italians for many things, but their cuisine and sense of style should not be included in said criticism (reference the old joke about Heaven and Hell as being defined by different ethnic groups being placed in various occupations). And, to paraphrase Walter Brennan’s character in the 1940 movie Northwest Passage, “That ain’t a bad beak, iff’n you gotta have a beak”.
Thanks, internet! BTW, I’d sure like to have one, if anyone wants to start a GoFundMe account for that purpose.
Really enjoyed that post Tom K.
Class – leading ?
Um, as many will note, the Multi has been around since the Neolithic Axe. DUC’ve won Superbike World Titles. MotoGP. Pikes Peak. – Dealer network is thin in many places. The early Multi tanks needed either replacing or ethanol free gas or emptying and allowing to shrink again from time to time.
Oh yes – I had a 2006 multistrada with the fuel tank issue. It also weeped oil (told this was normal) and had a ton of little issues. I traded it and got a 2012 Super Tenere that I’m still riding. The Yamaha isn’t as exciting, but it starts when you turns the key and is stone reliable.
I have a 2007 FZ6. It is 1000% the most reliable, needs NOTHING vehicle I’ve owned by a LONG SHOT.
I had an ’07 FZ6. Same experience. I went through a stream of European bikes (and a Buell) starting in 2006. After two years, it became apparent that I was going to have to keep something in the garage I could trust as backup. Settled on the FZ6 because I though it could do it all from track days to interstate days, and that thing was the most versatile, stone-cold reliable, bike I’ve ever owned.
I always wanted an FZ6. I felt it was perfect (maybe not the under-seat exhaust) and would be a nice upgrade for my Seca. The test ride (2004) was one of the best I’ve ever had. Then I bought a showroom condition red 1991 K75/S and, though it wasn’t nearly as powerful as the FZ6, it was less than half the price and soooo refined. I don’t think I made the wrong decision but I wish I had enough money at the time to just buy both.
THAT is without a doubt the funniest thing I will read today! I think the new Multi looks a lot like a 2010 Mutlistrada, beak and all. Pan Am was just a recent memory of a defunct airline when Ducati built its first Mutlistrada. Ducati will still be building Multistradas when “Pan Am” is a distant memory of another failed HD attempt to break out of their collapsing market segment.
BTW, I have owned three Ducs (two Multis) all without drama.
You misspelled “Hardly-Ableson.”
I like it. This time, the beak looks a little more intergrated. Or else I’m getting used to Ducati’s styling fetish.
Probably a good bike, surely expensive to buy and maintain. The beak with those big air inlets looks similar to a turkey vulture beak. Surprised they didn’t name it the “Avvoltoio”.
Probably a good bike, surely expensive to buy and maintain. The beak with those big air inlets looks similar to a turkey vulture beak. Surprised they didn’t name it the “Avvoltoio”.
Hmmm. I have a 2004 and had a 2003 in Europe. Both are less ugly and lighter. Progress? Nope!
I’ll check back in another decade and a half or so.
That was pretty funny Mick… less ugly. I remember when they came out nobody liked the Terblanche styling. The fairing is kinda funky and the way part is fixed and part moves is a little weird. But I really like the way they look and the whole bike just works especially the frame. I am seriously considering an S version of your vintage as I am looking for a street bike again.
I think a name change is in order. Something like V2 Osprey or maybe the V2 Harrier.😀
Remember when Ducatis were the most beautiful bikes on the planet?
Remember when Ducatis were also the best sounding bikes on the planet?
I look at the Ducati Desert X concept and the old Cagiva elephant pictures and my heart warms. These Multi’s just don’t grab me the same way. I’m interested in seeing what the Desert X looks like.
Yep, go back to twins (be it V or inline), they are the best. Besides, he price can be less astronomical.
Sounds like a really well designed bike for versatile, real world use. The over styled beak is a big minus however. I put a deposit on a ST2 when they first came out primarily because I loved the styling. I didn’t buy it because the sales manager would not swap out part of the fairing with another color. Glad I didn’t, I bought a Caponord that was one of my favorite bikes with years of touring and zero problems.
Objectively, the ergos changes for shorty ruin the bike for anyone tall enough not to need them.
But the marketing copy says they accounted for that; “ thanks to a 10 mm increase in distance from the seat, ensure the right amount of room also for taller riders”. See? Says so, right there in the marketing copy!
LOL amazing. 10mm ROFL. That’s like bup/kis.
Sorry. You’ll just have to make do with, oh I don’t know, every adventure/dual sport bike on the planet.
I like the looks of it. It has plenty of power and has little weight. From the pictures it looks like the seat is not too high. My personal issue is getting my leg over the passenger seat.
I’m old. Then I saw the flaw… it’s available Only for EU countries.
The “** Only for EU countries” is about the 4 year warranty, not the bike
Looking less Italian and more Japanese. I’ll keep my Moto Guzzi V85TT than.k you
A beak-phobic lot this is…
Beak phobia is a sign of good taste. Thanks for the compliment.
That schnozzola is a bit pointy, but the overall package is awesome. I am adding the V2 to my short list. I just wish Ducati had the courage to design a belt final drive for ii.
Agreed.
I so agree with the comments below. Ideal though the bike seems, with lower seating, better ergos and sensible and very adequate power, it is still hideous, with far too much emphasis and height at the front. As a dedicated Ducati enthusiast, it breaks my heart that I could never live with such a style.
I love the idea of the Multistrada, but I just can’t get past the eyesore of the beak. I guess you don’t have to look at it if you’re riding it…
I prefer the beak to whatever the front of the Pan America has, but I agree with you. At least the rest of the bike looks good.
I love the idea of the Multistrada, but I can’t get over the looks of the beak. I guess you don’t have to look at it if you’re riding it…
I actually like how it looks.