Ducati News Today

Ducati has announced it’s 2010 lineup and it is a formidable range that includes the brand new Multistrada 1200, revised Hypermotard Evo and Evo SP, Corse special edition 1198S and 1198R, ABS as an option for the Monster range and the return of a Dark model with the 848 Dark. In a series of articles Ducati News Today will explore the new models in detail. First up is the Multistrada 1200. This is Part II, You may wish to read Ducati Multistrada 1200 Part I first.

An Impressive Dry Weight

With a dry weight of just 189kg (417lb) the Multistrada 1200 is lighter than any other road enduro, touring or sport touring bike currently available.

This weight saving is the result of applying new technologies to Ducati’s design and engineering of all major components. Crankcases are now cast using Vacural® technology and frame components use welded Trellis tubes, cast alloy elements and hi-tech polymers. Further savings have also been made with the single-sided swingarm in aluminium and the fuel tank has been developed using blow moulding technology in pursuit of the best compromise between capacity and weight.

Ergonomics and Comfort

The Multistrada 1200 seat immediately transmits a sense of comfort. Constructed in two separate sections for the rider and passenger, they were designed with particular focus on form and cushion density to ensure maximum comfort during long journeys. A confidence-inspiring passenger grab-handle offers a secure and comfortable grip.

The footpeg position represents part of the optimum ‘ergonomics triangle’ for both the rider and passenger with added consideration to ground clearance during maximum lean angle and position of pannier luggage. The footpegs have rubber inserts that insulate vibration, removable to expose a motocross-style serrated edge that provides enhanced boot grip when riding off-road.

The Multistrada 1200’s screen is designed with 60mm of vertical adjustment to ensure efficient wind protection for all rider heights and effortless high-speed riding over long distances.

The fuel tank has been developed using a new moulding technology which enables a favourable balance between capacity and weight. Subject to riding style, the 20 litre (5.3 gallon US) capacity provides more than 300km (186 miles) of riding pleasure between fuel stops.

Two 12V power outlets situated on either side of the area below the rider’s seat can be used to power up to 3A (fused) accessories such as thermal apparel, intercoms or mobile phone chargers. A special connection point for powering the GARMIN satellite navigator (optional feature) is situated near the instrumentation.

Dripping in Technology

The Multistrada 1200 ignition is not actuated with a normal key. Instead, an electronic key in the rider’s pocket communicates with the Multistrada within a distance of approximately 2 metres, recognising the dedicated key code and automatically enabling the ignition. Pressing the key-on switch then activates the motorcycle’s electrics and the engine can then be started.

The on-board computer system is made up of a large, high visibility LCD with the main data and a dot-matrix circular LCD which visualises various functions according to whether the bike is stationary or moving. The main LCD displays speed, rpm, gear, total mileage, trip1/trip2, tire pressures (as standard on the ‘S’ version Touring package), engine coolant temperature, fuel level and time.

When the motorcycle is in motion, the dot-matrix LCD displays the selected riding mode, remaining fuel/distance, current fuel consumption, average fuel consumption, average speed, air temperature, trip time, and ‘freezing conditions’ alarm. When stationary, it enters a setting menu from where adjustments to the various functions can be made.

‘S’ Model in Two Flavors

The main features of the ‘S’ version consist of the ABS system and the innovative Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES) system, developed specifically for the Multistrada 1200 by Öhlins in partnership with the Ducati engineers. The ‘S’ version is available in the two equipment options of Sport Edition and Touring Edition.

Sport Edition The Sport Edition is enhanced with special carbon fibre components which further accentuate the distinctive character of the Multistrada 1200. They consist of front air intakes, cam belt covers, rear hugger and lateral air extractors.

Touring Edition The Touring Edition focuses on comfort and convenience. A centre stand not only provides parking practicality, but is also essential in the event of tyre maintenance during a long distance journey. Easily connected heated grips are controlled via the instrument panel to three settings and are a must for any tour where adverse weather conditions threaten rider comfort.

Stylish luggage panniers, designed together with the bike, offer a load capacity of 57 litres (or 77 litres with large lid versions) and use a fast and secure attachment system that blends perfectly when the panniers are removed.

The new Multistrada 1200 will be available in the two color schemes: red or arctic white for the standard version, while the ‘S’ version will be available in red, arctic white or diamond black. The US MSRP for the base model is $14,995. Pricing for the S models has not yet been announced. Full specifications are below.

What do you think? Is this a Ducati you could grow to love or is it another ugly duckling? Chime in with your views in the comments section below.

Want More?

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1. 2010 Ducati Multistrada 1200 Full Details Part I
2. 2010 Ducati Superbikes Full Details