FIRST LOOK: DUCATI’S ALL-NEW 2025 MTS V2 MODELS

Since its inception back in 2003, Ducati’s Multistrada models have been a key driving force behind the Italian company’s meteoric rise. So, it’s big news that, for 2025, the Multistrada V2 models have undergone a comprehensive redesign. The new V2 models get big changes to chassis, suspension, bodywork and, of course, an all-new 890cc V2 engine that makes the for the lightest V-twin Multi yet. Add to the mix a seemingly endless factory-fitted accessory option catalogue (which includes spoked wheels) and these new-generation V2 bikes live up to their namesake, ‘many roads’, more than ever before!

BODYWORK

Ducati’s outgoing V2 models are similar in appearance to the older 1260 models, while the 2025 V2 machines draw heavily from the new-gen V4. Visually, the new bike’s ‘beak’ is a whole lot more subtle than its predecessor and with its lights now reminiscent of the Panigale, the new V2s look very much part of the latest Ducati range. Big changes in the tank design make for a much slimmer feel between the knees, along with improved protection from the elements. While simple, the cleverly adjustable windshield featured on the V4s has made its way to the V2 range, and protection extends to the arms and hands, thanks side deflectors and hand guards. Also of note is the top fairing, which includes air scoops that divert fresh air to the lower half of the bike to keep the rider comfortable when the summer sun is blazing. Out back, the trellis subframe and seat arrangement have both slimmed down dramatically, bringing the new bike in line with the V4 – which, it must be said, is much easier on the eye.

REDESIGNED FRAME & SUBFRAME

Featuring a completely redesigned frame, rear trellis subframe and swingarm, the new V2 Multis embrace the same construction philosophy as the Multistrada V4. The frame is an aluminium monocoque that uses the engine as a stressed element, much like Ducati’s latest MotoGP frames, while the rear subframe is a steel trellis and the swingarm is cast aluminium. Combined with the new V2 engine, these improvements bring the Multistrada to a suitably low weight: 199kg (fluids, no fuel) for the V2 version, plus another couple of kilos for the V2 S version, which comes equipped with semi-active suspension. That’s a full 18kg lighter than their predecessors! This relatively low weight – matched to their signature longitudinally oriented V-twin engine – means Ducati has created a very slim bike that is less of a handful than the much wider V4 machines.

Standard seat height is a very reasonable 830mm that can be adjusted to 850mm, and there are 810mm and 870mm seats available. To make climbing aboard easier, the Ducati Skyhook suspension (standard on the 2025 Multistrada V2 S model) can be lowered when you are stopped.

ALL-NEW 890CC V-TWIN ENGINE

Ducati’s latest 890cc 90-degree twin-cylinder motor first showed itself in the 2025 Panigale V2 and Streetfighter V2, and the factory claim it weighs in at a paltry 54.9kg. That’s way lighter than the outgoing Multi, which shares its 937cc Testastretta twin as Ducati’s DesertX. Of course, the 2025 V2 also got a bump up in power compared with the outgoing version – a claimed 115hp at 10,750rpm. Maybe the biggest improvement, though, is valve-clearance checks (now every 30,000km), plus it comes with a four-year unlimited mileage warranty.

MOTOGP-INSPIRED ELECTRONICS

The new Multistrada V2 rolls with a very sorted electronics package, all accessed via redesigned handlebar controls and possibly the most neatly integrated five-inch TFT colour dashboard we’ve seen. The five available riding modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Enduro and Wet) allow you to adapt the Multistrada V2 to any situation, setting the engine power and response to pre-configured (and tuneable settings), thanks to the four power modes with which the engine is equipped. The riding modes set the cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) and Engine Brake Control (EBC) to pre-defined levels, which again, you can tune to your heart’s content.

Standard spec on both Multi V2 models is cruise control, a USB socket integrated into the dashboard, the Ducati Brake Light EVO (which manages emergency flashing in sudden braking) and, in the case of the V2 S, the Ducati Multimedia System, with which you can run a turn-by-turn navigator accessory. Add to this, a new ‘Coming Home’ function keeps the low beams active when the ignition is turned off, illuminating the area in front of the bike and making getting into the garage that little bit easier…

SUSPENSION

The Multistrada V2 sits on a Marzocchi fork with 45mm legs and a Sachs shock absorber with a progressive link out back, and both are fully adjustable. The Multistrada V2 S is fitted with Ducati’s semi-active suspension with DSS electronic control. Add to this some new ‘algorithms’ that limit diving during braking (anti-dive) and reduce the tendency to “sit” during acceleration (anti-squat), ensuring precise handling all the time.

A nice addition is the Minimum Preload function, allowing you to lower the rear suspension at the touch of a button. This makes it easier to get your feet on the ground, especially when fully loaded or riding with a passenger. As with the new Multistrada V4, the V2’s suspension modes can be adjusted independently of the riding modes, enabling riders to select their preferred suspension calibration while maintaining the same electronic control settings and engine response.

Both V2 models run 170mm of suspension travel to ensure versatility and a superior riding experience when the roads get riddled with potholes. Stopping-wise, the Brembo braking system feature dual 320mm front discs and a single 265mm rear disc, delivering top-tier stopping performance.

WHEELS

Both versions of the Multistrada V2 are equipped with a 19-inch front wheel that’s paired with a 17-inch rear, and fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tyres. As always, spoked wheels are an option out of the showroom – meaning more off-road ability, especially with Pirelli’s range of more aggressive Scorpion tyres, designed specifically for the Multistradas.

Here in Oz, the 2025 Multistrada V2 rolls out of the showroom in its base form for $26,100, while the Multistrada V2 S starts at $29,200. Both will be available form March, 2025, and you can choose from Ducati Red or a very schmick Storm Green. Of course, there is a comprehensive factory accessory range tailored for the Multi V2s – from pipes to wheels, every conceivable piece of luggage, and a whole host of carbon and CNC’d bling upgrades. Plus, a whole lot more that will quickly bump the price up a few grand! Got a few minutes to kill as you count down the days till the holidays? Have a play with Ducati’s bike configurator here. We racked up $38,978 with spoked wheels, Termi pipe, Crash Bars, Bash Guard and a bunch of carbon…