rides

Ducati Multistrada 1200 is the most electronically advanced road bike ever produced.

Multistrada is available in standard version with optional ABS, or in a higher-specification S model. The S is also split into two editions: Sport, with carbon fibre frontal air intakes, cambelt covers, rear hugger and lateral air extractors. Touring, is equipped with a center stand, panniers and heated grips.

All versions are powered by the liquid-cooled 1,199cc engine from the 1,198 Superbike, but with a new cylinder head that reduces valve overlap from 41° to 11° to soften power delivery and reduce fuel consumption and emissions. This Testastretta 11° engine puts out 150bhp, a very impressive 40bhp more than Ducati’s nemesis - BMW’s R1200GS.

Multistrada S has a handlebar switch with four different modes. But instead of just power output via ride-by-wire, it also controls ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), and the all-new Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES) - all standard on the S model.

Sport mode unleashes all 150bhp with an aggressive throttle response, taut suspension set-up and traction control that kicks in late.

Touring mode provides the full 150bhp, but with progressive throttle response and softer delivery, softer suspension, and maximum ABS and traction control.

Urban riding mode reduces power to 100bhp with optimum suspension, DTC and ABS for city streets.

Enduro has power reduced to 100bhp so it’s easier to grip in dirt, and it also raises the suspension, while ABS is set to the lowest level.

EICMA 2009: Ducati Multistrada 1200

Milan show: Ducati’s 2010 models