Ducati Multistrada V4 2021 — Specifications

For twenty years, Ducati has built its trail reputation on the rugged musculature of its L-twin cylinders. The Multistrada V2 was a cult object, with its desmodromic valves, trellis frame, and monobrach that turned heads. So when Bologna announces a Ducati Multistrada V4 for 2021, purists hold their breath. What they discover is a machine that has retained only the silhouette and thrown the rest overboard.

The engine is where it all begins. The 1158 cm3 V4 Granturismo descends directly from the competition blocks that have powered the Panigale and Streetfighter. Bologna has tamed it, civilized it, made it compatible with 800 kilometers of national roads without wrist pain, but it retains a density of character that few competitors can claim. Its 170 horsepower peaks at 10500 rpm, placing it five units above a BMW S 1000 XR on this terrain. The torque peaks at 125 Nm at 8750 rpm, a slightly lower figure than the old twin, but available earlier in the rev range and with a much more suitable progression for versatile use. V2 enthusiasts will quibble over that lost demi mkg; they will be wrong, because in return, oil changes are spaced at 15000 kilometers and valve control occurs at 60000 km. Assumed pragmatism. Note that the two rear cylinders are cut off at idle to limit heat transmitted to the rider, a system shared with the Streetfighter V4 and also used by Harley-Davidson and Indian on their recent machines.

The chassis is a clear break with the house tradition. The steel trellis frame, a visual signature of the brand for generations, gives way to a monocoque aluminum structure identical to that of competition superbikes. The monobrach disappears in favor of a classic double-sided swingarm. The 50 mm inverted fork, adjustable for preload, compression, and rebound with Ducati Skyhook electronic management, works with 170 mm of travel. The rear follows with 180 mm. The front wheel changes from 17 to 19 inches, which clearly orients the machine towards trails without making it a true adventurer: for serious off-road use, spoked rims and knobby tires remain an option. The Ducati Multistrada V4 2021 weighs 242 kg fully fueled, which places it in the high average of its category. We don't forget it, but the suspensions and mass distribution make it feel lighter than it looks.

Braking entrusted to Brembo M50 Stylema four-piston calipers on two 320 mm discs is up to the available power. Cornering ABS modulates braking force based on the lean angle. The IMU inertial sensor also supervises traction control in eight levels, wheelie control in eight levels, and four distinct riding modes. In Sport mode, the 170 horsepower are delivered unfiltered with discreet aids. In Touring, the delivery is softened and the protections are tightened. In Urban, the power drops to 115 horsepower for relaxed city use. In Enduro, even 115 horsepower but with ABS management adapted to soft surfaces, where rear anti-lock is disabled to allow the rider the freedom to slide. The 5-inch TFT screen adopts the graphic codes of the sporty V4s, with an analog tachometer and Bluetooth connectivity for call and music management.

At €19,590 in its base version, the Ducati Multistrada V4 price is at the expected premium level. The S version adds radar for adaptive cruise control, pilot suspensions, a larger screen, and GPS navigation. The S Sport version completes with carbon parts and an Akrapovic exhaust. What is missing from all versions: a center stand as standard. It is an oversight that is annoying, especially on a machine designed for long journeys with a 22-liter tank, mounting points for cases, and an adjustable saddle at 840 or 860 mm. The Ducati Multistrada V4 is primarily aimed at the seasoned sporty touring rider who wants a single motorcycle capable of doing everything, from alpine passes to forest trails, without compromise on efficiency or pleasure. For that audience, it ticks almost all the boxes.