Ducati Multistrada 1260 S 2019 — Specifications

Four roads in one. That's the promise Bologna has maintained for years with this chameleon-like machine, and the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S pushes this concept even further than its predecessors. At €20,990, it doesn't pretend to be accessible, but it doesn't pretend to be anything other than what it is: a travel tool honed to perfection, with a sporty temperament hidden beneath the guise of a grand tourer.

The 1,262 cc Testastretta V-twin is the heart of the matter. With its 106 mm bore and 71.5 mm stroke, this DVT variable valve timing engine produces 158 horsepower at 9,500 rpm and, most importantly, 129.5 Nm of torque in the mid-range. Specifically, 85% of this torque is available from 3,500 rpm, which means the machine responds to the slightest twist of the wrist, whether loaded or unloaded, with two passengers or solo. Facing the BMW S 1000 XR or the Yamaha Tracer 900 GT, the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S vs BMW S1000XR is a recurring debate on forums, and it often boils down to this: the Multistrada’s 235 kg all-up weight is compensated by an omnipresent torque that the Bavarian doesn’t quite know how to replicate in the low RPM range. The announced top speed of 240 km/h remains theoretical on public roads, but it says something about the seriousness of the mechanics.

The S version justifies its price premium over the standard Multistrada primarily through its semi-active Skyhook Evo suspension, developed with Sachs. The 48 mm inverted fork and the electronically piloted rear mono-shock rely on an inertial unit to continuously adjust the damping. In Sport mode, the geometry tightens, the rider aids become discreet, and ABS switches to level 2: this is where the experienced rider rediscovers the sensations that made the brand’s reputation. In Touring mode, the same power is delivered with increased progressiveness, the assistances increase by a level, and the suspension softens to swallow kilometers without martyrizing the back. Two other modes complete the picture: Urban tames the power to 100 horsepower for the city, Enduro does the same but deactivates the rear ABS and cornering traction control for rough roads. The Ducati Multistrada 1260 S 2019 also features a bidirectional quickshifter, integrated lighting embedded in the LED row of the headlight, and Brembo M50 calipers on 330 mm discs.

The 5-inch TFT screen replaces the old LCD of the base version and centralizes a number of parameters that can be overwhelming at first. Ducati Multistrada 1260 S luggage, multimedia connectivity, fine-tuning of the suspension, mode selection: everything is managed from this dashboard. The saddle is adjustable to 825 or 845 mm depending on the rider's build, the tank displays 20 liters, and the announced consumption of 5.2 liters per 100 km hints at serious autonomy on the highway. Ducati has also planned four optional packs to personalize the machine according to its use, from the Touring pack with heated grips and side cases to the Sport pack with the Termignoni homologated exhaust.

The target audience for the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S is quite specific: it's the experienced rider who refuses to choose between a sportbike and a tourer, who goes on a weekend trip but retains the desire to chase a Panigale in a mountain pass. This is not a motorcycle for beginners, neither in its handling nor in its size. Fans of the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S used to find on the market 2018 or 2019 vintage models at more digestible prices, without the mechanical evolutions between these years justifying an absolute preference. The Grand Tour, a more touring-oriented derivative with its integrated saddlebags, remains a coherent alternative if comfort takes precedence over sporting rigor. For others, those who want every start to be a small promise kept, this S version remains the reference in the segment.