Motorcycle specifications Ducati Multistrada 1200 2014 Road games

after inventing the trail supersport-GT, Ducati took advantage of 2013 to refine it. There's no shock or transition on the visual side, as the changes are so subtle as to be invisible. Homeopathically revised front end, LED lights, wider bubble with push-button adjustment, 1199 Panigale-style wheels... The manufacturer's attention to detail.

the real changes lie elsewhere. The Multistrada "evo" gains a new ABS and a reworked engine, while the anti-lock braking system is entrusted to Bosch's 9ME system. Using the same processor as on the 1199 Panigale, the ABS can be operated on 3 levels. The first is designed for off-road use, eliminating anti-wheeling and allowing the rider to chase the rear under braking for a brief moment before the ABS activates. The second plays on a front/rear balance without heave detection with Sport mode. The third optimizes braking to the max, with anti-wheeling detection in Touring and Urban modes.

when it came out, the Multistrada immediately made headlines with its 150 horsepower. A hypersport engine in a trail bike, with such power, seemed (and still seems) largely unreasonable. In 2013, the Ducati MTS will have to reckon with KTM's 1190 Adventure, with the same ambitions. The Italian Testastretta twin can see what's coming, and has its answer. It is taking advantage of 2013 to evolve with dual ignition (2 spark plugs per cylinder) and a number of improvements. A repositioning of the injectors, a secondary air intake system, a new valve seat material - these are just the highlights. The result is a 0.7 mkg increase in torque and greater flexibility in power delivery. What's more, the interval between major overhauls has been extended to 24,000 kms.

the key points of the Multistrada need no further reminding... Well, just a little. Its big engine, multi-role chassis with 4 Riding Modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Enduro), ride-by-wire, traction control, its character halfway between trail-GT and sport... However, Ducati has saved a new trump card for the more upscale versions. The Multistrada S introduces the new semi-active Skyhook suspension. A further step towards electronic co-piloting, except that it's more like a virtual damping technician.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos