Once a monster of the Italian motor industry Ducati conceived to create a universal bike that would suit both amateurs and leisurely tourists, as well as inhabitants of the modern magapolis languishing from traffic jams ... The idea went into the concept of developing a new motorcycle - Ducati Multistrada. It was first introduced to the world in 2009 at EICMA in Milan.
The basis for the creation of the bike was the model Ducati 1198, popular at the time, completely rethought and modernized. The developers equipped it with all the possible technological innovations that were used on the WSBK and MotoGP races.
Concept
Imagine how a client comes to a motor show and answers the manager’s questions like this:
- I want it to be beautiful ... And fast, so you can drive. And that not only traveled on a good road, but also on the road. Oh yes, and luggage to fit. And so that the city so that maneuverability was. And convenient is a must. And it was easy to manage ...
In fact, most newcomers are usually puzzled by similar requirements of sellers. But if in most cases the manager’s task is only to find the most optimal compromise, then Ducati decided to go the other way - it created an absolutely uncompromising bike that meets all of the above requirements. The idea of the Ducati Multistrada 1200 is based on four pillars:
- Urban (city mode).
- Sport (high speed).
- Enduro (off-road all-terrain vehicle).
- Tourism (comfort in the long run).
The triplet “multi” in the title speaks for itself: the motorcycle is designed to solve many diverse problems. Ducati Multistrada actually turned out to be universal. This motorcycle is a real tour enduro with a dashing sporty heart and a charismatic recognizable appearance.
Exterior
The silhouette of the motorcycle as if painted on a sheet with sweeping bold strokes. The dynamic design is emphasized by contrasting color combinations of the casing. However, all this was done in a sophisticated and tasteful way, the inimitable Italian charm and the Ducati corporate identity can be traced in the entire look of the bike.
The twin headlights of the motorcycle are equipped with the latest optics with LEDs. The windshield is quite high, with the ability to adjust, the mechanism of which is quite simple. The laconic dashboard is equipped with digital sensors, and on the sides of it are small glove compartments.
A wide steering wheel and a narrow "humpback" tank give the exterior of the motorcycle some old-school features typical of an Italian driving school.
Wheels with 17-inch wheels "shod" in tires Scorpion Trail, which was developed by Pirelli specifically for this model.
It should be noted that the rubber in which the Ducati Multistrada 1200 motorcycle is shod is the fastest in the world. It allows you to control the bike even with a slope of 45 °.
Features of modifications
The classic modification of the Ducati Multistrada allows the driver to instantly adjust the engine power and torque, and in addition, to control traction and adjust the suspension of the car.
There are four driving modes, which allows you to adjust the motorcycle to any individual riding style, the configuration of the pilot's preferences.
The sports modification of the S Sport bike is equipped with an Öhlins adaptable electronic suspension. As a brake system used ABS. The “S” model is also distinguished by the presence of an air intake, side extractors and a compact rear wing, which is made of carbon fiber. This further emphasizes the sporty character of the bike.
Variation S Touring is designed specifically for long-distance travel. She has all the "chips" of the first two modifications, but in addition, "sharpened" for increased pilot comfort. The handlebars of the steering wheel are equipped with the possibility of heating, and for long trips there are 57-liter side wardrobe trunks.
Smart Systems
A huge amount of on-board equipment, which the Ducati Multistrada bike is equipped with, deserves considerable attention. Reviews indicate that the kit is complete and self-sufficient.
The model’s built-in alarm system with autostart function can recognize the ignition key at a distance of up to two meters.
ABS, DTS and DES technologies provide maximum traffic safety because they react and act much faster than a person can do. The likelihood of a fall is minimized, control is greatly facilitated, and maneuverability increases.
Specifications
According to experts, fans and even competitors of the company, Ducati Multistrada and so it turned out quite advanced. But in 2013, the manufacturer decided to upgrade it again just in case. It seems that the engineers and marketers of Ducati seriously set some kind of super-goal. Perhaps to challenge the Japanese superiority in mass production? Or pretend to be the legend of the world motor industry, supplanting the good old Harley? Or in general - to get ahead of your time by creating a motorcycle of the future?
The dimensions of the modernized Multistrada remained unchanged:
- length - 220 cm;
- width - 94.5 cm;
- saddle height - 82.5 / 85.5 cm (depending on version);
- base - 153.0 cm.
Dry weight depends on the series. The base weighs 196 kg, Sport - 206, and Touring - 217. You can pour 20 liters of fuel into the tank.
Ducati Multistrada (enduro-sport-touring) is equipped with a completely new suspension with a DSS system. It is adapted for driving on any road.
The engine of the latest generation Testastretta shows a frisky sporting disposition. In tandem with him work brakes Bosch-ABS Brembo with ABS, electric drive Ride-By-Wire. The list of “smart devices” is replenished with such names as Ducati Skyhook and Ducati Traction Control - these are the latest on-board control systems that help the pilot.
The Marzocch front adjustable fork with 25 degrees of inclination, as well as the Trellis frame, are the same on all current releases. Considering the modifications of "Multistrada", you can find the same chassis with tire sizes 120 / 7-17 (front) and 190 / 55-17 (rear).
Advantages and disadvantages
Of course, it is too early to call the Ducati Multistrada 1200 the best motorcycle in the world. However, this bike has a series of advantages over competitors. These include the following:
- an opportunity to choose the necessary movement program;
- high-tech control systems and components;
- relatively small mass even in full equipment;
- excellent maneuverability, high dynamics of dispersal;
- good handling, quick response to teams;
- Stylish modern design.
We cannot but mention the feature that the people have the capacious name of "full stuffing."
But connoisseurs of the model see in it some flaws. Topping the list is a hard seat. Some do not like too prominent rear-view mirrors.
Not all owners like the motor settings. You also need to get used to adjusting the suspensions. But this is rather a matter of taste, and not a flaw.
The target audience
Who could be the buyer who puzzled the dealer with a list of requirements? According to the manufacturer, this is a successful and active person whose pace of life is dynamic and high. Of course, he has many diverse hobbies, he loves to conquer new horizons, and the spirit of competition is not alien to him. This is how the Italian concern “Ducati” sees its potential client.
Often, loyal fans of the brand change seats on this bike, changing, for example, the equally spectacular, but not so frisky Ducati Multistrada 1000. The main feature that unites the owners of motorcycles of this brand is the desire to have the best.
Estimated Cost
The first thing that interests every potential buyer of a Ducati Multistrada motorcycle is the price. Official dealers of the company offer a model of 2015 for 1,690,000 rubles. The sports version will cost 1890000 rubles. A tourist is another hundred thousand more expensive.
Finding and buying this motorcycle in the secondary car market is not easy, but you can still. The price tag starts with 300,000 rubles and depends on the generation, condition, year of manufacture.