2024 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS

Well, you asked for it, people, and here it is: a Multistrada superbike.

Ever since the Multistrada 1200 was introduced back in 2010 using a version of the Testastretta engine that powered the 1198 superbike, motorcyclists have explained its identity by saying things like: “[it] offers the power of a superbike, the comfort and long-haul capabilities of a sport-tourer”—which is exactly what we said in our first ride review nearly 15 years ago. Essentially, lots of folks played up the performance potential of the Multi (with good reason) while kind of secretly regretting it wasn’t actually a superbike. Since then, the standard Multi has generally gotten less sport-oriented, eventually adopting a 19-inch front wheel on its way to becoming squarely aimed at the BMW GS. But now this: the 2024 Multistrada V4 RS, a legit desmo super-tourer.

As Adam Child, our British correspondent, says, “This Multistrada is essentially a Panigale V4 S superbike on stilts.” Unlike performance-oriented Pikes Peak versions of the Multi, the RS uses a different engine from the rest of the lineup, booting the Granturismo V-4 to the curb and bolting in the 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale from the Streetfighter V4—probably the engine lots of you hoped for in the first place. Ducati claims it produces 180 hp in stock trim, or 192 hp with an Akrapovič race system. You’ll get all those warm and fuzzy racetrack feels when you hear the dry clutch rattling away by your right boot. On top of that, the Multi RS uses a new aluminum monocoque frame, a single-sided swingarm in place of the standard double-sided unit, and a titanium subframe. It also uses a correctly sized 17-inch front wheel and Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension similar to what’s used on the Panigale V4 S, Streetfighter V4 S, and Multi Pikes Peak. At the same time, the RS still has touring features like front and rear radar fitted for blind spot detection and adaptive cruise control, vehicle hold control, and mounting points for hard side cases. What we’re looking at here is sort of a Streetfighter V4 S with comfier ergos, wind protection, and a place to put your luggage. As Child says in his first ride review: “Superbike performance and handling with comfortable touring ergos; it nearly seems too good to be true…” And this time we really mean it.

The Multistrada V4 RS has an MSRP of $38,895.