2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 Gets Variable Timing Performance Boost

This is a wonderful time for adventure/grand-touring motorcycles, even for a superbike manufacturer like Ducati. In fact, the Multistrada is one of the company's best-selling models, second only to the Scrambler. In Borgo Panigale, that message has been received loud and clear as the Multistrada continues to evolve its impressive levels of performance and versatility.

At the heart of this latest upgrade is the most recent Testastretta engine, bumped to 1,262cc by lengthening stroke to 71.5mm and incorporating Desmodromic Variable Timing (DVT). The latter is a stroke of genius from chief project engineer Gigi Mengoli, who combined variable timing with desmo valve actuation for an optimal combination of horsepower, low-rpm torque, and Euro 4-satisfying emissions.

This version of that engine was first fitted to the XDiavel, which quickly lost favor with consumers, and now the Multistrada is a much more appropriate home. The 1260 DVT is capable of 158 hp at 9,500 rpm and 95.5 pound-feet of peak torque at 7,500 rpm, but with a very flat curve featuring 85 percent of that peak value at 3,500 rpm, which is exactly what ADV/GT riders are seeking.

The latest DVT version of the Multistrada is available in three trim levels: Multistrada 1260, Multistrada 1260 S, or Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak. To get the best out of the new engine, the chassis also has undergone an upgrade intended to make the ride more enjoyable under any circumstances, more stable and comfortable at speed, and more precise on twisty back roads.

Rake has increased from 24 to 25 degrees, and a 1.9-inch longer swingarm was adopted. Wheelbase has consequently grown to 62.4 inches for a more comfortable, two-up riding experience and improved stability even when fully loaded with a top case and saddlebags. Suspension is by Sachs, a 48mm inverted fork and shock, both fully adjustable.

Both the Multistrada 1260 and 1260 S roll on 17-inch wheels shod with Pirelli Scorpion radials in 120/70-17 front and 190/55-17 rear sizes. The 1260 is content with 320mm Brembo front brake discs and four-piston calipers while the Multistrada 1260 S goes to 330mm rotors and Evo M50 calipers. Here, wheel control is provided by semi-active Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS).

The Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak goes up one more notch with an Öhlins 48mm inverted fork, a TTX36 shock, forged aluminum wheels, and a Termignoni exhaust system. Electronics are likewise top class, starting with high-definition TFT instrumentation, navigation, and a lengthy list of rider-assistance options controlled by a Bosch Inertial Measuring Unit (IMU).

Check out the rest of our coverage of all the new motorcycles released at EICMA this year.