FIRST LOOK: 2026 DUCATI MULTISTRADA V4 RS

The 2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS is the sportiest and most distinctive Multistrada ever, produced in a numbered series and powered by the 180hp Desmosedici Stradale engine from the Panigale. Beyond carrying over the advanced electronics and touring tech of the 2025 V4 range, the RS debuts new features including Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO), Full Power Mode, and independent Suspension Mode selection, along with a lighter titanium subframe, forged aluminium wheels, revised frame geometry, and exclusive styling touches such as the RS livery, carbon components, and a slim tail fairing – making it far more than a rebadged Pikes Peak.

Read Ducati’s press release on the new 2026 model below…

The Ducati RS range was born from the desire to overcome the compromise between the thrill of sports riding and the ability to offer true grand touring comfort to rider and passenger. Thanks to the Desmosedici Stradale engine with desmodromic timing, dry clutch, and Akrapovič muffler, Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension, and forged wheels, the V4 RS offers unique performance and riding sensations, while maintaining the balance that has always distinguished the Multistrada family.

The unmistakable sound and thrilling power delivery of the MotoGP-derived V4 make for an unforgettable riding experience. These sensations are also guaranteed by the chassis of the sportiest Multistrada in the family, made even more effective by the updates for the 2025 model and enhanced by the single-sided aluminium swingarm and newly designed forged wheels.

The most demanding motorcyclists will appreciate the technical and stylistic details that make this a unique motorcycle in both personality and substance. The RS logo, a true defining element of the model, was designed by the Centro Stile and appears on the livery, on the key, and in the dashboard graphics. The slim, streamlined tail fairing, designed exclusively for this bike, contributes to its sportier look.

The Multistrada V4 RS is a model in which every component, every detail — from the electronics package featuring radar technology to the chassis featuring event-based Öhlins suspension, to the ultra-lightweight titanium rear subframe, now sized to accommodate a top case — was chosen with a single goal: to create the sportiest touring bike ever. The most exciting Multistrada ever created by Ducati.

Superbike Engine

The Multistrada V4 RS is the only model in the family to feature the 1,103 cc Desmosedici Stradale engine. To combine the Multistrada’s typical smoothness with the personality and sportiness of the Panigale and Streetfighter, Ducati has modified the V4 to achieve a smooth power delivery curve at low revs while, thanks to the desmodromic timing, delivering thrills near the redline. A personality that is also expressed through the exhaust note, deep at low revs and exhilarating like a Superbike during high-rev acceleration.

These objectives were achieved by adopting the more permeable and sportier Sprintfilter P08 air filter and the exhaust system with an Akrapovič muffler developed specifically for the Multistrada V4 RS. In this Euro 5+ homologated configuration, the Desmosedici Stradale engine develops a maximum power of 180 hp, with a rev limit of 13,500 rpm. This figure was chosen to ensure sporty performance while maintaining the balance that has always distinguished the Multistrada V4 since its first version.

To best exploit the Desmosedici Stradale’s sportier and more powerful power delivery, the final gear ratio is shorter than those of the Pikes Peak, while the gearbox ratios remain unchanged, assisted by the new DQS 2.0. This system uses a strategy based solely on the gear shift drum’s angular position sensor, allowing for the use of a microswitch-free shift rod, offering the rider a more direct feel with reduced travel.

Finally, as on the most prestigious versions of the Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4 models, the Multistrada V4 RS also features the STM-EVO SBK dry clutch, crafted from billet aluminium, with a specific spring and slipper configuration. This component, which makes the ride smoother during braking and gear engagement, also contributes to the exhaust note, with its distinctive metallic timbre when the clutch is disengaged. Among the benefits of the dry clutch is the ability to increase performance using Ducati CorsePerformance Powered by Shell Advance oil, the result of the collaboration between Ducati Corse and Shell in Superbike and MotoGP.

To improve engine thermal comfort, the Desmosedici Stradale has been designed to deactivate the rear cylinder bank when the bike is stationary, in neutral, and with engine temperatures above 70°C. For even greater comfort, the upwash ducts, which bring cool air to the rider’s legs, can be closed on colder days. The valve clearance check interval on the Multistrada V4 RS is scheduled every 30,000 km.

Electronics

The Multistrada V4 RS features the advanced and sophisticated electronics package of the new Multistrada V4 S, updated with the innovative Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO), the new Suspension Mode management system separate from the Riding Modes, and the Front-to-Rear braking strategy. The package also includes, among other features, standard radar technology on both the front and rear, which enables Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), and Forward Collision Warning (FCC).

With the new DVO (Ducati Vehicle Observer) feature, the Multistrada V4 RS becomes even safer and more efficient, thanks to electronic controls that can operate with greater precision. This feature estimates the ground forces acting on the motorcycle and the loads it can withstand in various riding conditions, simulating the input of 70 sensors in addition to the data provided by the inertial platform. The Ducati Vehicle Observer, developed by Ducati Corse in MotoGP, refines the ABS Cornering and Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) strategies.

The electronics package of the Multistrada V4 RS, thanks to information gathered from the Bosch inertial platform, includes four Power Modes (Full, High, Medium, Low), the aforementioned Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) DVO, Engine Brake Control (EBC), and the new Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0. All these systems have been calibrated for the model’s characteristics and intended use and integrated into five Riding Modes: Race, Sport, Touring, Urban, and Wet.

The V4 RS is the only Multistrada equipped with the Full Power Mode (associated by default with the Race Riding Mode, indicated by a chequered flag above the name), which delivers maximum power in all gears, with a prompt throttle response. The other Power Modes have been calibrated for use on the Multistrada V4. Specifically:

• High (associated by default with the Sport Riding Mode) offers maximum power in 4th, 5th, and 6th gears with a slight reduction in torque in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, with a prompt throttle response.

• Medium (associated by default with the Touring Riding Mode) also offers maximum power in 4th, 5th, and 6th gears, with a slight reduction in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, but with a smoother throttle response.

• Low (default in the Urban Riding Mode) with power reduced to 84 kW (114 hp) and a smooth throttle response.

The Multistrada V4 RS also features EBC (Engine Brake Control), adjustable to three levels, allowing the rider to customise engine braking according to their riding style and the situation. The sportier feel of the V4 RS’s electronics package is underlined by the new dashboard graphics, which feature a control panel on the main screen with functionality similar to the Track Infomode on the Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4. This panel displays the DTC, ABS, and DWC settings for the selected riding mode. Furthermore, the intervention of Ducati Traction Control and Ducati Wheelie Control is highlighted by the corresponding panel element flashing and the upper right corner of the dashboard lighting up.

The Multistrada V4 RS’s 6.5″ TFT dashboard, featuring dedicated graphics, allows you to view the map navigator via Ducati Connect, which enables you to mirror your mobile device. To support this feature, the smartphone compartment features forced ventilation to cool the phone during intensive use of the navigation functions and while charging.

Chassis and Ergonomics

The Multistrada V4 RS’s chassis is developed around the 17″ front wheel, ensuring great precision and responsiveness in sports riding. This solution led to the choice of an aluminium monocoque frame different from the Multistrada V4 S and Rally to achieve a different steering head angle (25.75° compared to 24.5°), defining trail and wheelbase dimensions to enhance the bike’s sportier character, similar to what was already done on the V4 Pikes Peak.

The forged aluminium wheels enhance the vehicle’s dynamic performance. The Diablo Rosso IV Corsa tyres, sized 120/70 at the front and 190/55 at the rear, offer excellent grip during acceleration and a strong feeling of contact with the ground mid-corner.

The choice of Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension is aimed at ensuring the best performance in sports riding thanks to the use of an event-based system, as on the Panigale V4 S and Streetfighter V4 S, which self-adjusts according to the rider’s riding style. The system, already used on the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak, has been recalibrated to achieve the best balance between comfort for casual riding and support for sporty riding.

The Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension strategies have been optimised to offer more support for sporty riding and, at the same time, greater comfort for touring. The system operates according to an event-based logic, as on the Panigale V4 S and Streetfighter V4 S, self-adjusting according to the rider’s riding style. Furthermore, using a dedicated button, the rider can now select the suspension control strategy regardless of the selected Riding Mode. On this bike, the rider can activate the Track, Dynamic, Touring, or Low Grip Suspension Modes, increasing support and precision, or comfort and stability, based on the type of route and conditions without altering engine response or the behaviour of the electronic controls.

Finally, the Electronic Combined Braking System on the new Multistrada V4 RS offers a new front-to-rear strategy, capable of managing the rear brake even when only using the front control. This improves braking effectiveness in both sporty and fully loaded touring use.

The braking system is derived directly from that of the Panigale V4. At the front, the system includes 330 mm diameter discs and Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers, similar to the Multistrada V4 S, with the addition of pads from the Panigale V4. At the rear, the system features a single, larger 280 mm diameter disc gripped by a Brembo floating caliper. The control, with its regressive kinematics, has a smaller piston, thus improving power and modulation. The system is managed by the Bosch-Brembo 10.3ME ABS Cornering system.

In addition to the carbon fibre and titanium components, a smaller battery has been adopted to further reduce weight. This saves a full 2 kg compared to the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak. The new V4 RS offers sportier ergonomics than the Multistrada V4, with higher footpegs and set back to maximize the lean angle. The handlebar, rigidly attached to the plate to improve riding feel, is lower, narrower, and has a less pronounced curvature. The new, softer grips have a sportier design.

This ergonomic combination translates into a better feeling for sport riding while maintaining a good level of comfort. Comfort has been the focus of considerable attention, to maintain the Multistrada V4 RS’s perfect blend of sport and touring.

Accessories

The Ducati Performance catalogue offers various accessories to enhance the bike’s characteristics and make it unique aesthetically. Riders looking to increase the versatility of the Multistrada V4 RS will find a variety of luggage options, from plastic or aluminium side cases to a top case, tank and passenger seat bags, and various larger windshields. To emphasize its sporty personality, the catalogue also offers billet aluminium parts such as levers, footpegs, brake and clutch reservoirs, and oil tank and filler caps. Many carbon fibre parts are also available to lighten the bike and make the look of the Multistrada V4 RS even bolder.

Sporty Style

The Ducati Multistrada V4 RS combines the unmistakable line of the Multistrada, elegant and dynamic, with technical solutions that reflect the racing technologies typical of Borgo Panigale superbikes. The various carbon fibre components, such as the front mudguard, the handguards (designed specifically for this model), the heat shields, and the front “beak,” create a play of contrasts with the new RS livery.

The slim and lightweight techno-polymer tail fairing integrates the passenger grab handles and defines a sporty, sophisticated, and unmistakable side view. The titanium seat subframe is a highly refined technical component that accentuates its sporty character and saves 2.5 kg compared to the standard subframe. It can now accommodate three panniers. This unique feature in the segment allows the Multistrada V4 RS to transform from a sports bike to a GT in an instant.

The Ducati Multistrada V4 RS is produced in a numbered series. The number is displayed on a black anodized aluminium plaque, embellished with the Italian flag, applied to the triple clamp. The Multistrada V4 RS will be available in a single trim level, featuring front and rear radars as standard, with the exclusive RS livery, in Australia from December 2025/January 2026. As with all models in the Multistrada family, on the Multistrada V4 RS Ducati also offers the exclusive “4Ever Multistrada” warranty, valid for four years with unlimited mileage, guaranteed by the entire Ducati dealer network throughout Europe.