A Multitude of Multistradas

Ducati’s latest new models appear at its World Premier series, ending on 5 December. First up, a new Multistrada V4 and V4 S launching alongside an updated Pikes Peak model.

These are mechanically similar but have different characteristics. The V4 is optimised for two-up touring and off-road riding, the S adds shiny bits. Meantime, the Pikes Peak has more of a sports bent in the Multistrada line-up.

Powering the trio is an 1158cc V4 Granturismo engine, stumping up with 127kW. The latest Multi V4 features an Enduro Riding mode, a new dedicated Power Mode and a Wet Riding Mode.

Multistrada V4 and V4 S are underpinned by an aluminium monocoque frame. A double-sided swingarm is now set 1mm higher than before. The upshot is improved antisquat performance for more precision when fully loaded. 

The Multistrada V4 S differs from the V4 by running semi-active Marzocchi suspension controlled by the Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) Evolution system (adaptive damping). It also has Brembo brakes front and rear. Both bikes have four power modes and five riding modes (comprising Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet and Enduro).

The 2025 Multistrada V4 will be available in European dealerships from October 2024 in Red, Thrilling Black and Arctic White. 

Multistrada Pikes Peak 2025

The current Multistrada Pikes Peak emerged in 2022, and is amongst Ducati’s sportiest models in the Multistrada range, alongside the V4 RS. With a new design for 2025, Ducati’s latest model features fresh livery inspired by the company’s participation in MotoGP, WSBK and motocross championships.

Highlighting its sporting prowess are numerous carbon fibre parts and an Akrapovic titanium exhaust. The chassis set-up is different from that of the Multistrada V4, developed around a 17-inch front wheel. It comes standard with Pirelli Diablo sports road tyres, 120/70-17 on the front and 190/55-17 on the rear.

The single-sided swingarm is now mounted on a pivot that has been raised a millimetre higher than on the previous model. Brembo brakes do the stopping duties and suspension is by Ohlins, as it was on the last model. 

The new DVO (Ducati Vehicle Observer) function, fitted to the 2025 Panigale V4 S, is now part of the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak safety arsenal. Ducati says the safety systems are under improved electronic control and can act with greater precision.

“This function estimates the position of the bike in space and its overall mass more accurately, simulating the input of 70 sensors to integrate the data provided by the inertial platform (IMU). The Ducati Vehicle Observer, developed by Ducati Corse in MotoGP, refines the strategies of ABS Cornering, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) and Ducati Traction Control (DTC).”

he latest Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak also now comes with EBC (Engine Brake Control) adjustable on three levels. That allows the rider to better custom engine braking according to riding style.

The new V4 Granturismo engine features an extended deactivation strategy. That effectively reduces emissions levels and fuel consumption by up to six per cent.