After only one year on the market, the Ducati Multistrada V4 has already received a few updates. Of particular interest is the fact that the V4 S has gained a new semi-automatic ride height function. Since its launch last year, Ducati’s Multistrada V4 has proven to be an advanced grand tourer, following the SuperEnduro GT trend that is so popular at the moment.
Of course, the engine is the key factor: the non-Desmo 1,158cc V-4 produces 170 hp at 10,500 rpm and 92 lb-ft of torque at 8,750 rpm. With a balanced chassis and an aggressive body wrap, the bike offers an advanced electronics package that includes front and rear radar sensors for monitoring traffic conditions, adaptive cruise control, and a blind spot detection system. Of course, Ducati also offers a wide range of accessories.
Features of Ducati Multistrada V4
The chassis of the Multistrada V4 is based on the same cast aluminum concept originally developed for the Panigale V4 superbike. Its construction offers high torsional stiffness and is lightweight, and the bike provides excellent stability, agility, and versatility in both on- and off-road riding.
Ducati’s goal was to provide a bike with high reliability and comfort, an engaging riding experience, and excellent safety. These key benefits helped make the Multistrada V4 an immediate success, with more than 10,000 units sold in its first year. Prestige and purity aside, the current generation of Ducatisti clearly embraces and appreciates the long maintenance intervals of the non-Desmo valve drive system.
Although the motorcycle is only one year old, the Multistrada V4 will receive styling and technical updates in Ducati Multistrada 2022. The most obvious is the new Arctic White color scheme, which joins the current Ducati Red and Pilot Grey. The Multistrada V4 is available in four trim packages, Essential, Radar, Travel & Radar, and Full, with all three colors available for each trim.
The Multistrada V4’s “S” model includes an electronically managed suspension system that now features an additional feature called “Minimum Preload”. This system semi-automatically lowers the bike’s suspension to enhance low-speed maneuverability and make the bike more rider-friendly in urban traffic. Thanks to the DUCATI Connect system, software upgrades have also been made to make it easier to access and interact with electronic devices. While the updates are standard on the new bikes, they will also be available free of charge to owners of last year’s Multistrada V4 S.
While the motorcycle is currently offered with a removable touring case, a new ADV-spec aluminum top case and side panels will now be available. When it comes to lowering the bike, there’s another option: the Ducati Performance accessories line will offer a lowered suspension kit that includes forks and shock springs, as well as a shorter side stand. This setup will lower the seat height by 20 mm (0.8 inches), with the aim of improving low-speed agility and achieving a sportier riding style.
Finally, starting in April, new aluminum luggage (bags and trunks) will be available for the serious touring enthusiast. These offer plenty of space: 76 liters for the side skirt supports and 41 liters for the top case. Waterproof liner bags provide an extra layer of waterproofing to make loading and unloading easier. A quote from Ducati’s own website clearly states the intent of the 2022 Multistrada V4: “It’s never easy to rule the road.”