Bike Test: Ducati’s Multistrada V4 S

Adventure bikes have evolved into the ultimate do-it-all motorcycles. They commute during the week, tour across the country, tackle dirt roads or trails and often embarrass sportsbikes through the twisties. And Ducati’s Multistrada V4 S is one of the top few big bores that can genuinely do it all.

For 2025/2026, Ducati delivered the most significant update to the Multistrada V4 S since the V4 platform was introduced, focusing on refinement, comfort and technology rather than increasing performance. The 170hp Granturismo V4 engine remains unchanged in output but now meets Euro 5+ emissions standards and features an expanded rear-cylinder deactivation system that reduces fuel consumption and rider heat.

The electronics package has been comprehensively upgraded with Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO), enhancing the operation of traction control, ABS and wheelie control, while adding Forward Collision Warning alongside the existing radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection. The semi-active Ducati Skyhook EVO suspension has also been revised with predictive damping and self-levelling functions, complemented by a new Automatic Lowering Device that drops the seat height by up to 30mm at low speeds for added confidence when stopping.

Chassis tweaks include a 1mm higher swingarm pivot, while refreshed styling, a redesigned TFT interface and enhanced passenger comfort (panniers moved back) complete the changes.

During my test, I rode the Ducati in just about every condition imaginable: sunshine, rain, motorway commuting, country roads, fast sweepers, dirt roads and light fire trails all became part of the experience. With the standard road-biased Pirelli Scorpion Trail tyres fitted, I deliberately avoided anything too technical off-road, but that still left plenty of opportunity to explore where this motorcycle really shines.

On the Road

Leaving Gosford early, I headed west through the NSW Central Coast hinterland to Kulnura, stopping at Jerry’s Cafe for coffee before continuing to the Mangrove Creek Dam lookout. From there, one of my favourite dirt roads led into the historic Hawkesbury River village of St Albans, followed by the Wisemans Ferry crossing and the winding run through Cattai Ridge and Berowra Waters. Returning via the Old Pacific Highway and M1 brought the roughly 250km loop to a close, after taking in everything from motorway and fast country roads to tight corners, ferry crossings and dirt. After tackling it on the Duke, I reckon this has to be one of the most versatile motorcycles to come out of Italy.

Despite its physical size, the Multistrada never feels intimidating once underway. The adjustable seat height of 840-860mm provides an excellent commanding riding position for my 187cm frame, while the ergonomics are comfy and give good control. The seat remains supportive over long distances, the handlebars and controls fall naturally to hand and the (manually) adjustable screen provides excellent weather protection and can be moved on the fly.

The finish throughout the bike reflects Ducati’s premium positioning. Quality paint, beautiful machining, premium switchgear and a crystal-clear TFT display all contribute to a motorcycle that feels every bit as expensive as it is. While the menu system initially appears complex, it’s surprisingly intuitive after only a short time and the ability to customise individual riding modes is pretty handy.

Touring mode quickly became my default setting for everyday riding, offering beautifully compliant Skyhook semi-active suspension (DSS) and smooth throttle response. For commuting and long-distance touring it’s difficult to fault.

Sport mode, however, completely transforms the bike. The suspension firms noticeably, throttle response sharpens and the 1158cc Granturismo V4 unleashes its full 170 horsepower with addictive urgency. Despite weighing over 240kg ready to ride, the Multistrada disguises its mass remarkably well, carving through corners with a level of agility that seems almost impossible for a machine of this size. It will drink some serious juice, though, in Sport mode.

With 170hp and 125Nm, it delivers punchy acceleration across the rev range while retaining enough character to remind you it’s still a Ducati. The engine feels smooth, yet there’s always that unmistakable V4 pulse and soundtrack encouraging you to twist the throttle just a little harder. A more liberal muffler would be great, though.

Matched with one of the slickest two-way quick-shifters around, the six-speed ’box makes spirited riding effortless while also reducing fatigue during daily commuting. The clutch is a bit on the heavy side, gearing is tall and first gear is long, but you do get used to it.

Backing up the performance are outstanding Brembo Stylema brakes, delivering excellent feel and reassuring stopping power. Combined with Ducati’s comprehensive electronics package, including cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control and radar-assisted Adaptive Cruise Control, the Multistrada has it all.

The optional panniers are spacious, easy to remove and transform the bike into a genuine long-distance tourer. During my fortnight with the bike they proved invaluable, easily carrying riding gear, camera equipment and everything needed for full-day adventures, plus the groceries on the way home.

Although the standard tyres favour sealed roads, the chassis remained composed on gravel roads and light fire trails (the trade-off being they are awesome on the tarmac). Standing on the ’pegs feels natural, suspension compliance is excellent in Enduro mode (114hp) and the electronics switch off rear ABS. It’s clearly more road-focused than some of its European rivals or the hardcore V4 Rally version, but for the type of off-road riding most owners are likely to attempt, it’s more than capable.

Even with Ducati’s rear-cylinder deactivation strategy helping reduce heat while stationary, noticeable warmth still reaches the rider in slow-moving traffic; it gets pretty hot. Fuel consumption is also on the thirsty side, particularly when enjoying everything the Granturismo V4 has to offer. Fortunately, the generous 22-litre fuel tank still provides respectable touring range between fuel stops.

Conclusion

If you’re after a bike capable of replacing several bikes in your garage, the Multistrada V4 S deserves to be on your shortlist. If the V4 is too big, the V2 is also fantastic.

Ducati may not have changed the V4 much over recent years, but after spending two weeks with it, I’d argue it’s because they got it right the first time.

Visit ducati.com/au/en

Test: Jeff Ware | Photography: HMC Photography