Motorcycle description sheet DucatiMultistrada V4 S 1160 2025 S stands for comfort!
with the introduction of a new Multistrada V4 in 2025, Ducatai is presenting not just one new model, but 3. In addition to the basic version, the Italian brand is also unveiling an S version and a Pikes Peak version. The S version is what I'd call an intermediate model, dedicated to exaggerated versatility and comfort, while the Pikes Peak is a time-trial bomb.
from a styling point of view, this Multistrada V4 S 2025 adopts the slight styling evolutions of the normal version. New daytime running lights bring the look of the Multistrada closer to that of the Panigale , and more paint is applied to the fork head. While we're on the subject of lighting, the Multistrada is equipped with Cornering Lights, which reduce the shadow cone in front of the front wheel when the bike is leaning into a bend. Another useful gadget is the Coming Home function, which increases the headlight delay once the ignition has been switched off, so you can see clearly in dark streets when the bike is parked.
for 2025, Ducati has moved the position of the panniers and top-case back on this S version to provide more space for the passenger. This comfort can be further enhanced with independently customizable saddles and a lowered suspension kit for smaller riders.
Suspensions: that magic carpet dream
compared to the base model, the Multistrada V4 S features the Skyhook DSS EVO semi-active suspension. Already seen on Ducati models, this technology receives a new fork-mounted sensor for 2025. This sensor constantly seeks to predict the future of the road, or at least the degradation of the ground beneath the front wheel, by detecting bumps in particular, and immediately adapting the hardness of the rear suspension to the roughness of the road.
this intelligent suspension system also ensures that the bike remains at a constant level, whatever its load: rider, rider + passenger or luggage. And if this array of suspension management aids isn't enough for you, whatever riding mode you've selected, you can still use a dedicated button (even while riding) to vary the shock absorber response for + comfort or + sportiness.
the new Multistrada V4 S is also equipped with a new feature this year: automatic lowering of the bike. This 2025 model features the Automatic Lowering Device. How it works is simple: the motorcycle lowers itself by reducing its suspension travel automatically when it drops below 10 kph. When the rider accelerates beyond 50 km/h, the Multistrada V4 automatically returns to riding height.
This practical assistance system can be disconnected by the rider.
Driving aids: the ultimate in safety
the Multistrada V4 S is equipped with a front and rear radar system that informs the adaptive cruise control (ACC) to ensure that the correct safety distance is maintained at all times. To prevent the rider from being dizzy when overtaking, the Multistrada V4 S is also equipped with blind spot detection (BSD), which warns of approaching vehicles in the blind spot of the rear-view mirrors.
new for 2025, a new aid completes this already high-performance duo. The motorcycle is equipped with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), which alerts the driver to potential collisions with a vehicle in front, with a pop-up window on the dashboard. In the event of emergency braking, the new Ducati brake light will switch on the hazard warning lights to warn following vehicles.
cornering ABS, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) and Ducati Traction Control (DTC), which keep the bike's spirit in check, receive a new electronic aid this year, the Ducati Vehicle Observer. This technology uses scenarios based on 70 sensors to select the best one and send it to the inertial unit, which manages the intervention of the driving aids.
Engine: silent cylinders
the Granturismo generation of the V4 extends the effectiveness of cylinder deactivation, even during the driving phase (low load / engine load). During these phases, the rear cylinders are shut off, allowing Ducati to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 6%. Despite this, the V4 still develops 170 hp (125 kW) at 10,750 rpm and 123.8 Nm at 9,000 rpm.
depending on your mood or the weather conditions of your trip, you'll have five riding modes at your disposal. For this year's evolution, Ducati has modified the settings of the Enduro mode and offers a new Wet mode. The other three modes - Sport (170 hp), Touring (170 hp) and Urban (115 hp) - remain unchanged.
although not really a mud-biker, Ducati has created an Enduro mode. This reduces V4 power to 114hp, with throttle response and electronics adapted for trail riding. Traction control and anti-wheeling are limited in what they can do, while ABS on the rear wheel is simply deactivated. The aim is to prevent the panicking electronics from causing you to fall over.
another engine control at your disposal: Engine Brake Control. The rider can adjust the level of engine braking in 3 stages, which is particularly useful on duo descents of mountain passes to take some of the strain off the brake pads.
the road: what an adventure!
this S version of the Multistrada V4 2025 is all about comfort. Piloted suspension, Brembo Stylema calipers, a larger TFT screen (with connectivity, multimedia and GPS navigator) and the Keyless system push the price up to 25,390 euros (excluding options). A price that places the Multistrada V4 S well above rivals such as the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Pro. At this level, do we still dare talk about trails? No, they're all-purpose mutants, but the price tag is starting to get steep ... .
Vincent Beaucousin - Manufacturer's photos