Ducati Multistrada 1200 V4 (2021-2022): The Ultimate Sport-Touring Revolution
Introduction
The Ducati Multistrada 1200 V4 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. For the 2021-2022 generation, Ducati took their iconic adventure-touring platform and injected it with the soul of a MotoGP-derived V4 engine, creating a machine that defies categorization. This isn’t merely an evolution; it’s a full-blown revolution in the sport-touring segment. After spending days testing this Italian marvel on winding mountain roads, highways, and even light off-road trails, one thing becomes clear: Ducati has redefined what a do-it-all motorcycle can be.
Design & Ergonomics: Where Form Meets Function
The Multistrada V4’s design is a masterclass in purposeful aggression. The sharp LED headlights, angular fuel tank shrouds, and exposed trellis subframe scream Ducati’s racing DNA, while the 22-liter (5.8-gallon) fuel tank and adjustable windscreen hint at its touring capabilities. The aluminum monocoque frame isn’t just lightweight—it’s a structural work of art that centralizes mass for razor-sharp handling.
Key ergonomic highlights:
- Seat height: Adjustable between 840 mm (33.1") and 860 mm (33.9"), accommodating riders of most statures
- Riding position: Upright yet sporty, with slightly rear-set pegs for aggressive cornering
- Weight distribution: At 240 kg (529 lbs) wet, it feels shockingly nimble—credit to the counter-rotating crankshaft that cancels inertia
The Ducati Red and Aviator Grey color schemes pop under sunlight, though the real showstopper is the Sport livery available on certain trims. Every panel gap is precision-matched—this is Italian industrial design at its finest.
Engine & Performance: The V4 Granturismo’s Symphony
The star of the show is undoubtedly the 1,158cc V4 Granturismo engine. Unlike the screaming Desmosedici Stradale, this powerplant is tuned for real-world usability:
- Power: 170–179 HP (124–131 kW) @ 10,500 RPM (varies by model year/market)
- Torque: 125 Nm (92.2 lb-ft) @ 8,750 RPM
- Fuel efficiency: 6.5 L/100 km (36 mpg) under mixed riding
Twist the throttle, and the engine delivers power with a ferocity that’s almost unsettling for an adventure bike. The Twin Pulse firing order gives it a throaty, almost V-twin-like rumble at low revs that transforms into a metallic howl as the tachometer needle swings past 8,000 RPM. Despite the stratospheric power figures, the ride-by-wire system and six-speed gearbox make it docile in urban traffic.
Standout features:
- Desmodromic valves: Ensures precise valve control even at redline
- Slipper clutch: Allows aggressive downshifts without rear-wheel hop
- Counter-rotating crankshaft: Reduces gyroscopic effect for quicker turn-in
Technology & Electronics: A Silicon Valley on Wheels
Ducati’s Skyhook Suspension Evo system is witchcraft. The 50mm USD forks and monoshock automatically adjust damping based on riding mode, road conditions, and even lean angle. Paired with the 6.5” TFT dashboard—one of the most intuitive interfaces in motorcycling—the tech suite includes:
- Riding modes: Sport, Touring, Urban, Enduro
- Safety net: Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Wheelie Control (DWC), and Vehicle Hold Control
- Lighting: Adaptive cornering lights that illuminate apexes
During testing, switching from Sport to Enduro mode softened the suspension travel to 180 mm (7.1") at the rear, proving the Multistrada’s off-road chops aren’t just marketing fluff.
Comfort & Touring Credentials
Don’t let the sporty demeanor fool you—this is a mile-devouring machine. The seat, while firm at first, becomes plush over long distances. Wind protection is exceptional, with minimal buffeting at 130 km/h (80 mph). The 22-liter tank offers a 340 km (211-mile) range between fill-ups, though spirited riding will see that drop to 280 km (174 miles).
Storage solutions:
- Optional panniers integrate seamlessly with the tail section
- The 12V socket and USB port keep devices charged
- Heated grips (optional) extend riding seasons
Competition: How the Multistrada V4 Stacks Up
The sport-touring/adventure segment is fiercely contested. Here’s how the Ducati fares:
| Competitor | Key Differentiators | Where Ducati Wins | |-----------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | BMW R 1250 GS | Shaft drive, Telelever suspension, superior off-road capability | Power delivery, electronics package, road manners | | KTM 1290 Super Adventure | Lighter (220 kg/485 lbs), more aggressive off-road tuning | Refinement, seat comfort, tech interface | | Yamaha Tracer 9 GT | Value pricing, CP3 engine character | Build quality, exclusivity, braking performance |
The Multistrada V4’s secret weapon? It’s the only bike in its class that genuinely feels at home carving canyons one day and tackling fire roads the next—all without compromising touring comfort.
Maintenance: Keeping Your V4 in Peak Condition
Owning a Ducati is a commitment, but the Multistrada V4’s 15,000 km (9,000 mi)/12-month service intervals are surprisingly manageable. Key considerations:
- Engine oil: Requires 4.4L of 15W-50 full synthetic (we recommend MOTOPARTS.store’s Racing Pro Synthetic)
- Valve adjustments: Desmodromic system needs specialist attention every 30,000 km (18,600 mi)
- Brakes: Brembo M50 calipers are sublime but benefit from our store’s sintered brake pads for aggressive riding
- Chain maintenance: Use MOTOPARTS.store’s X-Ring kit with 124 links for optimal durability
Pro tip: The Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tires offer great balance, but consider switching to our Adventure Pro series for mixed terrain.
Final Verdict
The Ducati Multistrada 1200 V4 (2021-2022) is a technological tour de force that redefines the sport-touring genre. It’s not perfect—the seat could be plusher, and the service costs are typically Ducati—but no other motorcycle in its class delivers this level of performance, tech, and emotional engagement. Whether you’re planning a transcontinental tour or attacking your favorite backroad, the Multistrada V4 isn’t just up to the task—it’ll make you wonder why anyone would ride anything else.
Ready to personalize your Multistrada V4? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of upgrades—from performance exhausts to ergonomic accessories—and make this Italian masterpiece truly yours.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 124 kW | 166.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 125 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Injection. 46mm elliptical throttle bodies with Ride-by-Wire system |
| Max power @: | 10500 rpm |
| Displacement: | 1158 ccm |
| Fuel control: | Desmodromic valve control |
| Max torque @: | 8750 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 83.0 x 53.5 mm (3.3 x 2.1 in) |
| Configuration: | V |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Compression ratio: | 14.0:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1567 mm (61.7 in) |
| Dry weight: | 215 |
| Wet weight: | 242 |
| Seat height: | 840–860 mm (33.1–33.9 in) |
| Ground clearance: | Not specified |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 22.0 L (5.8 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Final drive: | chain |
| Chain length: | 124 |
| Transmission: | 6-speed |
| Rear sprocket: | 42 |
| Front sprocket: | 16 |
| Maintenance | |
|---|---|
| Engine oil: | 15W50 |
| Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK SILMDR9A-8GS |
| Coolant capacity: | 2.74 |
| Forks oil capacity: | 1.6 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.4 |
| Engine oil change interval: | Every 15,000 km or 24 months, whichever comes first |
| Valve clearance check interval: | Not specified |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Frame: | Aluminum Monocoque |
| Trail: | 103 mm (4.0 in) |
| Rear tire: | 170/60-z-17 |
| Front tire: | 120/70-z-19 |
| Rear brakes: | Single 265 mm disc, Brembo 2-piston caliper (ABS) |
| Front brakes: | Double 320 mm discs, Brembo M50 Stylema monoblock 4-piston calipers (ABS) |
| Rear suspension: | Fully adjustable monoshock, electronic adjustment with Ducati Skyhook |
| Front suspension: | 50mm fully adjustable USD forks, electronic compression and rebound damping adjustment with Ducati Skyhook |
| Rake (fork angle): | 24.5° |
| Rear wheel travel: | 180 mm (7.1 in) |
| Front wheel travel: | 170 mm (6.7 in) |
