The Bottom Line: One Giant, Bar-Setting Leap for Ducati
Not only is Ducati's new Multistrada 1200 a serious adventure sport tourer with potent performance and impressive technology, the "S" version's advanced suspension system enables remarkable flexibility when it comes to attacking light offroad situations. And though it wouldn't be our top pick for a round-the-world journey (the BMW R1200GS is still the standard-setter for ultra long distance excursions), the Multistrada offers far more compelling on-road manners alongside reassuring dynamics when the road degrades into rubble.
So, where does that put the new Multi in regards to Ducati's claims of squeezing four bikes into one? I'm not sure it's possible for one Multistrada-- or any bike, for that matter-- to have the functionality of four different bikes. But the Multistrada does manage an exceptional job of tackling a wide variety of duties while adding an element of sportiness and mischief that only an Italian bike can deliver.
As a niche manufacturer that was once an incidental player in a global market, Ducati's newly rounded out lineup is now highlited by the Multistrada 1200, a bike so athletic and advanced that it redefines the possibilities of this burgeoning brand. The Multistrada 1200 may not be the perfect bike for every motorcyclist, but spirited long distance riders open to limited doses of offroad will find that it's nearly ideal for their needs.
Specs
Photo © Milagro
- Price: Base Multistrada 1200 ($14,995)
- Multistrada 1200 with ABS ($16,495)
- Multistrada "S Sport" with carbon trim ($19,995)
- Multistrada 1200 "S Touring" with Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES), Anti-Lock Brakes, center stand, heated grips, side luggage ($19,995)
- Powerplant: Liquid-cooled, 1,198cc L-twin producing 150 horsepower, 87.5 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: Six-speed manual with slipper clutch
- Frame: Tubular steel trellis
- Brakes: 320mm x2 radially mounted, 4-piston, 2 pad front, 245mm, 2-piston rear, available ABS
- Swingarm: Single-sided aluminum
- Wheel travel: 6.69 inches
- Curb weight: 478 lbs (Multistrada 1200), 485 lbs (Multistrada 1200 S)
- Fuel capacity: 5.3 gallons
- Fuel economy: 47 mpg
- Estimated cruising range: 248 miles
- Seat height: 33.46 inches (optional low saddle is 32.48 inches tall)
Who Should Buy the Ducati Multistrada 1200?
Adventure-seeking long distance riders who demand sportbike levels of performance, and might occasionally find themselves on rugged dirt roads.>>Click here for a 2010 Ducati Multistrada 1200 Photo Gallery<<
