FIRST LOOK: 2022 DUCATI MULTISTRADA V2

Having only recently launched its all-new and more off-road capable Multistrada V4 model range, Ducati hasn’t wasted any time in unveiling two new members of the Multistrada family – the 2022 V2 and V2 S models. These 113hp, ‘Testastretta’ engine-powered (937cc twin-cylinder) machines evolve significantly from their (now discontinued) predecessors, the Multistrada 950 and 950 S, and are pitched as “the perfect gateway to the Ducati tourer universe.

Testament to Ducati’s ongoing investment in the touring and travel enduro market segments, these 2022 MTS V2 models get a raft of updates to bodywork, ergos, engines and state-of-the art ‘six-axis’ electronics package, plus they’re the beneficiary of a weight loss program and are fitted with a cross-section of up-speeced components recently introduced to the new Multistrada V4 models.

Due to arrive in Australia in the first quarter of 2022, the new Multistrada V2 and V2 S come with Ride Away Prices that start at $22,539 and $25,190, respectively. Both models are available in “Ducati Red” with black rims, while the V2 S version is also available in “Street Grey” livery with black frame and “GP Red” rims.

Two “trim” levels can be ordered directly from the factory: the Essential trim is available for both V2 and V2 S, while the Travel trim (with panniers, heated grips and central stand) can only be ordered for the S version. Then there’s the Ducati Performance catalogue, which includes a series of specifically designed accessories to enhance the character and qualities of the Multistrada V2 – including the option of spoked wheels. For an even sportier ride, you might want to add a Termignoni exhaust, or a larger plexiglass screen for long-range touring duties.

For more information about the trims, options and any accessory packs available for the 2022 Multistrada V2 and V2 S, check our Ducati’s handy ‘Bike Configurator’.

Following is Ducati’s detailed insight into these new Multistrada V2 machines, along with a video snapshot of the new models…

DESIGN

The Multistrada V2 focuses on an elegant and sporty design, perfectly in line with the stylistic and recognisable canons of the Ducati Multistrada family, recently renovated by the Borgo Panigale manufacturer with the entry into the range of the Multistrada V4. The clean surfaces, the fluid lines and the difference in size between the front and the rear are the most characteristic features of the bike, which inherits the mirrors, alloy wheels and brake discs with aluminium flange from the Multistrada V4, resulting in a saving of 2.9kg in terms of overall weight. Other features in the design are represented by the new engine covers and the new tail, redesigned by the Bologna-based company to improve ergonomics and comfort. The brake and clutch reservoir assembly has been revised, separating them from the handguards, to increase the strength of the bike.

Compared to the previous version, the Multistrada V2 also features new refined graphics that show the name of the bike on both sides. The colour range consists of the classic “Ducati Red” colour with black rims, available for both the Multistrada V2 and Multistrada V2 S and is completed with the new “Street Grey” livery with black frame and “GP Red” rims, which can only be ordered for the S version.

ENGINE

The engine of the Multistrada V2 is the well-known and much-loved 937cc Ducati Testastretta 11° twin-cylinder with desmodromic distribution. This engine, four valves per cylinder, water-cooled, delivers 113 horsepower and approximately 10kgm of maximum torque in Euro 5 configuration, features an excellent level of reliability and the ability to combine performance and adrenaline with a regular and always manageable power delivery, putting a sports bike that is never aggressive in the hands of the rider. Consistent and robust, the engine has extended maintenance intervals, with oil change every 15,000km and valve clearance check every 30,000km.

The evolution of the Testastretta 11° mounted on the new Multistrada V2 features important improvements: new connecting rods, new eight-disc hydraulic clutch and an updated gearbox, which guarantees greater fluidity and precision in shifting, also facilitating the engagement of neutral. An even more appreciable progress in use in conjunction with the quick shifter, now with a further optimised operating strategy.

The interventions on the gearbox and clutch, together with the introduction of new connecting rods and new covers, have also brought about a reduction in the total weight of the engine of about 2kg.

ERGONOMICS

The bike’s ergonomics is the aspect of the Multistrada V2 that has undergone the biggest revamp from the Multistrada 950. Some key elements have been redesigned in order to make the bike even more accessible, helping to improve the high standards of comfort it offers in all areas of use (touring, commuting and urban).

The seat has been modified in shape to allow the rider to move easily along the longitudinal axis and is now narrower and more comfortable between the legs. This feature, togetmm (1790mm), makes it much easier to place your feet on the ground when the bike is stationary and allows you to make confident manoeuvres even when fully loaded. The distance between the seat and the asphalt can be further reduced up to 790mm by mounting the low saddle accessory in combination with the lowered suspension kit.

The riding position is now more comfortable with the new footpegs inherited from the Multistrada V4 which, thanks to a 10mm increase in distance from the seat, ensure the right amount of room also for taller riders, preventing them from bending their legs excessively, and thus allowing a more restful position during long journeys.

The bike is spacious and can easily accommodate two people even with the top case and side panniers mounted, to allow you to experience the thrill of travelling every day, rediscovering the usual roads or venturing into new territories, following the “Extraordinary Journey” philosophy.

CHASSIS

The scheme adopted for the chassis of the Multistrada V2 includes a front trellis frame together with two cast side frames, closed off by a rear load-bearing element made of techno-polymer loaded with glass fibre for maximum torsional rigidity, with the addition of the double-sided swingarm made in shell cast aluminium.

The bike’s chassis is agile and intuitive, with a 19-inch front wheel that ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, always with the right level of reactivity and precision. Extremely versatile, the bike is also ideal for urban use, thanks to the effectiveness of the Ducati Skyhook Suspension EVO semi-active suspension system (standard on the S version), which is based on a 48mm SACHS fork and a SACHS rear shock absorber – both electronic, with the possibility of adjusting the hydraulic brake in compression and extension in a continuous manner according to a semi-active control approach capable of absorbing roughness and unevenness of the ground and always guaranteeing the ideal set-up of the vehicle, improving safety and comfort.

The aluminium alloy wheels are the same as those of the Multistrada V4 with sizes of 3.0” x 19” at the front and 4.5” x 17” at the rear, which thanks to a weight of 1.7kg less than those of the Multistrada 950 ensure greater agility. The tyres are Pirelli Scorpion Trail II 120/70-ZR19 at the front and 170/60-ZR17 at the rear.

The weight reduction work conducted on the bike has made it possible to obtain a final dry weight of 199kg (202kg for the S version), 5kg less than the Multistrada 950. The engine has lost about 2kg. Among the vehicle components, the new rims stand out, together with the Multistrada V4 mirrors (- 0.7kg) and the front brake disc flanges, now in aluminium (- 0.5kg). In addition, with regard to the wheel rims, new spoked rims are also available as an accessory, also significantly lighter.

As for the suspension, the Multistrada V2 is equipped with a 48mm diameter upside-down KYB front fork with 170mm travel, dedicated cast end caps, adjustable in spring preload and hydraulic brake in rebound and compression. At the rear there is a SACHS shock absorber that connects the swingarm to the left cast subframe, which is also remotely adjustable in spring preload with a hydraulic press and hydraulic brake in rebound and compression. The spring is progressive, with a consequent increase in riding comfort even with the vehicle fully loaded. The rear wheel travel is 170mm.

The entire Multistrada V2 family is equipped with Brembo brakes with ABS Cornering function. The front system features Brembo M4-32 monobloc radial calipers with four 32mm diameter pistons and two pads, radial pump with adjustable levers and double 320mm front disc with aluminium flanges. At the rear we can find a single 265mm diameter disc on which a floating caliper, also Brembo.

ELECTRONICS

Safety, comfort and performance of the Multistrada V2 are also guaranteed by state-of-the-art electronic assistance systems. In the S version, the journey becomes five-star thanks to a benchmark full-optional package for the segment to which it belongs.

In 2010, the Multistrada was the first motorcycle in the world equipped with Riding Modes, which allow you to choose between different pre-set modes to optimize vehicle behaviour based on the rider’s riding style and environmental conditions. The Multistrada V2 features four Riding Modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Enduro), each of which benefits from the presence of the Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) platform to act on the intervention levels of ABS Cornering, modifying the character of the bike depending on the choices of the rider.

The Ducati Traction Control (DTC) of the Multistrada V2 is adjustable on eight levels, while ABS Cornering is adjustable on three and at level 1 it offers “only front” (non-cornering) functionality. The Vehicle Hold Control (VHC) system helps the rider in uphill starting phases. It activates when the user, with the motorcycle stationary and with the side stand retracted, applies high pressure on the front brake lever or on the rear brake pedal and is able to keep the vehicle stationary by actively intervening on the rear brake. This feature turns off automatically after 30 seconds if not used.

The Multistrada V2 sports an aggressive design lamp front headlight, typical of the motorcycles of the Multistrada family. At the rear there is an LED tail-light, which uses the Ducati Brake Light system (already developed on the Multistrada V4): in the event of violent braking, this system automatically activates the flashing of the rear light in order to appropriately signal an abrupt slowdown to the following vehicles, thus contributing to the overall safety of the motorcycle.

In the S version, the headlamp is full-LED, equipped with the Ducati Cornering Lights (DCL) function which optimises the lighting of the roadway when cornering based on the inclination of the motorcycle.

On the Multistrada V2, automatic deactivation of the indicators is available depending on the lean angle. Thanks to the use of the IMU inertial platform, the indicators go out after completing the turn or after prolonged cornering.

The dashboard of the Multistrada V2 consists of a large, high-visibility LCD. The S version, on the other hand, features a high resolution five-inch colour TFT display, with an intuitive interface that makes it easy to navigate the menu, together with the Cruise Control, the Hands Free system and the Ducati Quick Shift Up & Down. Both versions integrate with the Ducati Multimedia System.

For more info, check out the 2022-model Multistrada V2 on Ducati’s website.