Ducati Multistrada

The multi-functional machine

Following on from the Vespa test last time (and by the way, consumption was 3.0-3.5 litres per 100km not 30-35 - apologies) this month I tested Ducati's impressive Multistrada.

As the name suggests it is a dual purpose bike - it can be a sport's bike and yet can easily take on a touring role on indifferent roads, thanks to its long travel suspension, with equal aplomb.

The last Ducati I tested was an early '70s Ducati 860, which was during my tenure with the Brisbane Telegraph. It was one of the few bikes of that era that had a rigid, straight frame and, of course, it sounded great with the open pipes. Although I nearly broke my leg trying to kick-start the recalcitrant Italian and the electrics seemed to react to the "mood of the day".

The Multistrada, however, started at a touch of the starter button and modern Italian electrics are very reliable.

Statistics
Model - Ducati Multistrada
Weight - 200 kg
Engine - Twin cylinder 1000cc four stroke
Power - 62kW at 8000rpm
Gearbox - Six Speed
Cost - $18,495 plus on road costs
Performance - 0-100km/h (under four secs).
Economy - Expect a range of plus 300km from the 20-litre tank
Warranty - Two years unlimited kilometres

Convenience
With high, wide bars and a commanding riding position, the Multistrada is a delight to ride. The large LCD screen shows multiple functions including trip meter, average speed read out, fuel consumption and fuel range to complement the fuel gauge.

Negatives
I am just over 170 cms and found the seat height, at 850mm, just too high for convenience. I also found that the mirrors appeared to be a product of design over function. In my opinion, an after market exhaust pipe, comfortable seat and centre stand are essential.

Economy
Difficult to gauge for a reasonably high performance bike, but expect a range of more than 300km from the 20-litre tank.

Competition
There are many other dual-purpose designs on the market including the new BMW-R 1200 GS and the Triumph Tiger.

However, from a sporting perspective the Multistrada walks all over them.

Engine/transmission
All Ducati engines have character and for this model the Italian company have upped the air-cooled engine fitted in the SS to 1000cc, fitted twin sparks for added performance and although it "only" pumps out 62kW at 8000rpm this is still more-than sufficient for average use. Certainly I did not need any more power during my short test and the torque low down made up for any lack of performance at the upper end of the rev range. The one thing I missed was the traditional twin Ducati exhaust beat. I envisage most owners will opt for aftermarket pipes.

Safety/brakes
The Ducati is a very safe bike to ride quickly with high levels of road holding and "chuckability". It handles superbly, and has great stability at speed over rough roads. An average-to-good rider would give the equivalent rider on a sports bike a very hard time on "give-and-take" roads. The superbike brakes are superb with just the right feel during emergency braking.

Comfort/goodies
The long travel suspension is excellent for dirt or less-than-perfect tarmac. The seat is awful though - even after my short ride I found my well-padded butt feeling very sore. A comfort seat is available, but this is an issue that should have been addressed at the factory. However, the equipment that can be fitted - very high-panniers, rear rack and a taller screen - are easily available.

Why you'd buy it
The Multistrada is great fun to ride with outstanding road holding on rough roads. It has a commanding riding position and is therefore very suitable for the "mature" rider. You can get on this bike and tour with comfort.

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