Ducati Multistrada 1100 2009 — Specifications

Who, in 2009, would have bet on a future where Ducati’s large V2 would exceed one liter? We were still in the era of air-oil cooled engines, trellis frames, and radical silhouettes. This 2009 Ducati Multistrada 1100 is precisely that bridge between the old guard and the new. With its 1078 cm3, it wasn't just an evolution; it was a statement: Ducati could play in the big cube league without denying its DNA.

The heart of the machine is this famous twin, still with two valves per cylinder and the sacred Desmo system. The bore was increased to reach this displacement, and the oil-bath clutch, inspired by the ST3, makes its appearance. We lose a bit of the characteristic dry clatter, but we gain a welcome daily usability. The figures? 95 horsepower at 7750 rpm and a torque of 102.9 Nm. It’s not an explosion of power, but a maturation. The force arrives lower down, with more regularity, and service intervals are extended. For the touring rider who wants to cover long distances without worrying about a hypersensitive engine, it’s a real improvement.

The chassis remains that faithful steel trellis, the suspensions are fully adjustable Showa and Sachs, and the brakes are effective without being excessive. Ducati added silent-blocks at the steering level to quell the vibrations of the large engine, a crucial detail for long-term comfort. The 850 mm seat height may be impressive, but the weight of 221 kg fully fueled remains reasonable for this type of machine. The S version, with its Öhlins suspensions, was the option for those seeking the ultimate degree of refinement, and today, finding a used Ducati Multistrada 1100 S can be an interesting deal for an enthusiast.

Compared to its contemporaries, this Multistrada 1100 wasn’t seeking a power war with the BMW R1200 GS. It offered an Italian alternative, more sporty in its design and posture, with an engine rich in sensations rather than crushing figures. Its 20-liter tank and honorable range were aimed at the adventurous touring rider, but its V2 temperament also made it capable on a winding road. For a Ducati Multistrada 1100 test ride today, you discover a motorcycle with character, sometimes rough, but with a mechanical sincerity that has disappeared from current models. Its price of 11900 euros at the time seemed justified for this unique proposition.

Today, the search for a used Ducati Multistrada 1100, or even a Ducati Multistrada 1100 DS, often becomes a quest for an authentic object. It’s not the most versatile or powerful machine, but it carries the essence of an era when Ducati was making its big strides while preserving its soul. For those who want a sporty bike dressed for travel, with the sound and character of a traditional Desmo V2, it remains a poignant choice. The reliability of the Ducati Multistrada 1100 DS is now well known, and these models, from 2007 to 2010, represent an important chapter in the brand's history.