2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S MC Commute Review

We review Ducati’s fourth-generation and V-4 powered 2021 Multistrada V4 S.

By Adam Waheed, motorcyclistonline.com

Keen to leverage its sensational V-4 powerhouse, Ducati overhauls its 2021 Multistrada V4 S ($24,095-$24,695 as tested) adventure-touring bike. In fitting it with an all-new powertrain, chassis, and electronics package (with radar-equipped adaptive cruise control and blind spot detection), Ducati aims to not only improve this four-generation Multistrada’s versatility, but to enhance comfort and riding thrill with its now signature hot-rod style.

Saddle up at the helm of the 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S ($24,095) in this review.
Saddle up at the helm of the 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S ($24,095) in this review.Phlewid Films

Editor’s Note: the Multistrada V4 has been reported on during the 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 First Look Preview and 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S First Ride Review. This content describes what it is like to ride during the official US press introduction.

Ducati’s optional adaptive cruise control allows the Multistrada V4 rider to pace a vehicle that is ahead of him or her.
Ducati’s optional adaptive cruise control allows the Multistrada V4 rider to pace a vehicle that is ahead of him or her.Phlewid Films

Swing a leg over the Multi and remains a sizable ADV rig Still, the ergonomics are well proportioned and eerily similar to a current generation globe trotting Boxer Twin. A broad forward fairing and manual-adjustable windscreen provide good coverage against elements and the seat is nice and cozy. Our S model was equipped with heated grips and rider and passenger seats.

The dash display and ergonomics are eerily similar to the Motorrad’s Boxer Twin. Aside from clunky menu navigation, the setup works well.
The dash display and ergonomics are eerily similar to the Motorrad’s Boxer Twin. Aside from clunky menu navigation, the setup works well.Phlewid Films

A larger displacement 1,158cc V-4 purrs in a way that the previous L-Twin never did. And with its 2mm wider cylinder bore compared to the Panigale V4 superbike, it delivers pleasing torque at lower rpms. Still, because it’s a modern Ducati, the engine loves to scream and is a hoot to ride with the throttle wrapped to the stop. But it’s fun-loving pedigree has a price, with the Multi recording an paltry 30-mpg average.

The radial-mount Brembos perform well on pavement. In the dirt however, the front brake master cylinder is a tad too sensitive.
The radial-mount Brembos perform well on pavement. In the dirt however, the front brake master cylinder is a tad too sensitive.Phlewid Films

The Multistrada is the first Ducati to employ a conventional, non-desmo valvetrain. This boosts valve adjustment intervals from 18,000 miles to a whopping 37,280 miles. On a side note, this mileage interval is well above German and Japanese-made ADV rigs in this segment. After initial 600-mile service, the V-4 engine goes 9,000 miles between scheduled oil and filter changes, just like the previous L-Twin version.

Not only does the Mulistrada V4 benefit from added ground clearance, it employs hard protection, too.
Not only does the Mulistrada V4 benefit from added ground clearance, it employs hard protection, too.Phlewid Films

Combined adjustable engine power and throttle maps allow the engine to go from mild to wild with a push of a button. Traction and wheelie control, as well as multi-mode ABS are also included. Our S-model also includes semi-active suspension damping adjustment that is light years ahead of the electronics unveiled on the second generation Multistrada.

A manual tool-less adjustable windscreen provides pleasing coverage for the rider.
A manual tool-less adjustable windscreen provides pleasing coverage for the rider.Phlewid Films

Keeping tabs on everything is a larger and more crisp-looking 6.5-inch color TFT display, (again, an identical size as the Motorrad setup). The display is a big improvement versus previous iterations and is generally easy to read while riding. However, menu navigation remains clunky and it’s easy to get lost within sub-menus. Ducati could do well by simplifying the menu and engineering the software intuitiveness of a modern smartphone.

Tactile function of the switchgear is improved, however it lacks the precise movement and simplicity of Ducati’s European nemesis.
Tactile function of the switchgear is improved, however it lacks the precise movement and simplicity of Ducati’s European nemesis.Phlewid Films

Despite fitting a larger diameter 19-inch front wheel, the Multistrada still handles like a dream on pavement. Although it weighs 530-some pounds with 5.8-gallons of fuel, in motion it offers sportbike-like agility. On road handling is again, eerily close to the Motorrad division’s XR bike… which is a good thing.

Semi active suspension from Marzocchi performs well and the Multistrada rides nicely on and off pavement.
Semi active suspension from Marzocchi performs well and the Multistrada rides nicely on and off pavement.Phlewid Films

Added ground clearance and more intuitive ergonomics make it easier to ride the Multi like a dirt bike. Squeezing the machine in the standing position is more dirt bike-like and the suspension is most certainly better equipped for riding in the rough stuff. While excellent on road, the radial front brake master cylinder is a tad too touchy over slick terrain. Another strike is the puny rider footpegs which build pressure on the soles of the feet when standing. Lastly, the hydraulic-actuated clutch lever could also allow more inward adjustment as it can be hard to reach during delicate maneuvers.

During the second half of the day, we rode the Multistrada V4 setup ($26,695) with optional spoked aluminum hoops and Pirelli’s Rally enduro tires.
During the second half of the day, we rode the Multistrada V4 setup ($26,695) with optional spoked aluminum hoops and Pirelli’s Rally enduro tires.Phlewid Films

Smoother and more fun, today’s Multistrada V4 S is a significant improvement of the bike of old. Not only is it more entertaining, it offers a refined level of touring and off-road competency. Consider its enhanced durability and advanced gizmos, including one-of-a-kind adaptive cruise control and there is a lot to love about this new Ducati.

Not only is Ducati’s 2021 Multistrada V4 more capable, it’s faster and more fun to ride. Fit and finish is also improved versus previous models.
Not only is Ducati’s 2021 Multistrada V4 more capable, it’s faster and more fun to ride. Fit and finish is also improved versus previous models.Phlewid Films

Gear Box

Helmet: Shoei RF-SR

Jacket: Rev’It Offtrack

Gloves: Rev’It Cayenne Pro

Pant: Rev’It Trousers Offtrack

Boots: Rev’It Discovery Outdry

2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S Technical Specifications and Price

PRICE$24,095
ENGINE1,158cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled V-4; 16-valve
BORE x STROKE83.0 x 53.5mm
COMPRESSION RATIO14.0:1
FUEL DELIVERYFuel injection w/ 46mm throttle bodies
CLUTCHWet, multiplate slipper clutch; hydraulic actuation
TRANSMISSION/FINAL DRIVE6-speed/chain
CLAIMED HORSEPOWER170 bhp @ 10,500 rpm
CLAIMED TORQUE92 lb.-ft. @ 8,750 rpm
FRAMEAluminum monocoque
FRONT SUSPENSION50mm fork, electronic Skyhook; 6.7-in. travel
REAR SUSPENSIONSingle shock, adjustable Skyhook; 7.1-in. travel
FRONT BRAKERadial-mount 4-piston caliper, 330mm disc w/ ABS cornering
REAR BRAKE2-piston caliper, 265mm disc w/ ABS cornering
WHEELS, FRONT/REARCast alloy; 19 x 3 in. / 17 x 5 in.
TIRES, FRONT/REARPirelli Scorpion Trail 2; 120/70-19 / 170/60-17
RAKE/TRAIL24.5°/4.0 in.
WHEELBASE61.7 in.
SEAT HEIGHT33.1–33.9 in.
FUEL CAPACITY5.8 gal.
CLAIMED DRY WEIGHT481 lb.
WARRANTY2 years
AVAILABLEDecember 2020
CONTACTducati.com
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