DUCATI’S PIKES PEAK POWERHOUSE

Not done with simply releasing an all-new Multistrada V4 model in late 2020, Ducati has gone on to unveil their very special Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak model – the highest-performance version of the Multistrada ever produced. It’s a MotoGP-inspired mountain-climber with 170 horsepower and a treasure trove of special parts. And recommended Ride Away price tags of $44,500AUD/$46,495NZD.

For the initiated, even one glance will reveal this purpose-built powerhouse bristles with trick bits such as a single-sided swingarm, 17-inch front wheel, Öhlins front fork, titanium/carbon Akrapovič exhaust, Panigale-spec brakes, smoked plexi, and graphics inspired by Ducati’s MotoGP bike, the Desmosedici GP ’21.

The insatiable Ducatisti, however, will no doubt want to know more about this V4 Pikes Peak weapon. So, Ducastisi, here’s Ducati’s insight into the technology and key components this incredible machine showcases…

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

The Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak is the highest-performance version of Multistrada ever, embracing the legacy with top equipment, dedicated technology and a livery that recalls the original inspiration of the mountain. It takes life around the excellent Multistrada V4 platform – where performance, smoothness of operation and reliability offered by the V4 Granturismo engine, together with the contained weight, the ease of handling, the comfort for rider and passenger alike, and state-of-the-art equipment and electronics are all part of the cornerstones of the Multistrada V4 family.

Starting from these solid foundations, the new V4 Pikes Peak was developed by introducing significant changes in terms of chassis set-up, premium ergonomics, electronic controls as well as numerous dedicated components, which give the bike a distinctly sportier attitude compared to the Multistrada V4. Ducati, once again, promises to delight a wide range of riders looking for the purest performance within the dual bikes universe.

The design work behind this new project develops starting from the peculiar elements of the Multistrada V4 family, integrating them with the two elements that mainly identify this Pikes Peak version from an aesthetic and functional perspective – namel, the 17-inch front wheel and the single-sided swingarm. The racing soul of the bike is intensified by the dedicated “Pikes Peak” livery, faithfully inspired both in colours and graphics by that of the Desmosedici GP ’21. Even the number plates on both sides of the fuel tank contribute to highlight the deep link with the world of competition.

THE CHASSIS

The chassis compartment of the new Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak is part of the revolution. With respect to the Multistrada V4, it has in fact been significantly revised. First and foremost, it has been developed around the 17-inch front wheel, which ensures the rider great precision and responsiveness. The new machine is fitted with sports road tyres (120/70-17 front; 190/55-17 rear) and mounts Marchesini forged aluminum rims, 2.7kg lighter than those of the Multistrada V4 S, which make the dynamic behaviour of the vehicle therefore more effective and contribute to the reduction of the total weight amount of 4kg compared to the Multistrada V4 S. Additionally, Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension also guarantees brilliant performance in sports riding, through the use of an “event based” mode, the same adopted by the Panigale V4 S and the Streetfighter V4 S, which automatically adjusts the setting according to the user’s riding style.

The aluminum monocoque frame has been refreshed with the precise objective of achieving a different inclination of the steering head (25.75°, compared to the 24.5° of the Multistrada V4), not to mention that trail and wheelbase geometry have been recalibrated according to the different uses of the motorcycle.

THE BRAKES

The braking system of the new V4 Pikes Peak is at the top of the segment and derives directly from that of the Panigale V4. At the front, the system includes 330mm diameter discs and Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers, like the Multistrada V4 S, to which are added the pads of the Panigale V4. At the rear, the system features a single 265mm diameter disc with a Brembo floating caliper.

THE ERGOS

The new Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak stands out even for its dedicated ergonomics, specifically designed to ensure maximum control and optimise lean angles. With respect to the Multistrada V4, the riding position has been completely refreshed – the footpegs, for example, are higher and moved back to increase the maximum lean angle, while the handlebar is lower, narrower and has contained curved bars. The final result is that the rider benefits from an even better feeling in sporty riding while maintaining an excellent level of comfort.

THE POWERPLANT

The new Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak is powered by the most powerful engine within the category, the admired V4 Granturismo, achieving 170hp with a maximum torque of 125Nm at 8750rpm. This engine, specifically designed by Ducati for the Multistrada V4 family, is extremely lightweight (66.7kg only) and compact. Thanks to these features, Ducati engineers create an uncompromised equilibrium with perfect mass centralization. With a displacement of 1160cc, the V4 Granturismo engine ensures top-of-the-segment power and torque levels. In addition, the V4 Granturismo represents also a reference in terms of versatility and reliability, featuring record-breaking maintenance intervals, with valve play checks scheduled every 60,000km!

The V4 Granturismo engine has been optimised to intensify the characteristics of the bike and features some innovations. Among these, the introduction of the Race Riding Mode, which represents a first for Multistrada models. The Race option is added to a more racing strategy for the limiter, which intervenes more gradually than in the Multistrada V4, in order to alert the biker in advance and allow him a more effective sporty drive in terms of gear changes within the high area of the rev counter. The quickshifter also has a dedicated strategy that allows extremely aggressive downshifts, as well as the implementation of an even more direct throttle response in High Power

Mode.

THE ELECTRONICS

The Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak inherits the latest generation and sophisticated electronic package of the Multistrada V4 S, which includes, among others, the as-standard radar technology both at the front and at the rear, which offers Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Detection (BSD) functionality. The 6.5-inch TFT dashboard, also available as standard on the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak, allows the user to view the map navigator thanks to the advanced Ducati Connect system, which allows to mirror the rider’s smartphone.

Electronics innovations are, also in this case, aimed at obtaining a better sporty driving experience.

In addition to the introduction of the Race Riding Mode, Ducati Wheelie Control on the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak has an updated strategy that offers an even better response and a more accurate control during dynamic riding. ABS Cornering has also been configured to be safe and performing in whatever riding situation, even in the sportiest.

The Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak is a technologically advanced motorcycle, designed for those who love the thrill of sporty riding, especially on mountainous twisties or between the kerbs of a race track.

WHERE, WHEN & HOW MUCH?

The bike will be available at the Ducati dealers network starting at December, 2021, in the Radar trim, which is fitted with both front and rear radar system. Recommended Ride Away pricing is a $44,500AUD and $46,495NZD.

For more info, check out Ducati’s website and/or the video presentation about the new Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak on Ducati’s YouTube channel.