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EICMA2009: Ducati Multistrada 1200 Motorcycle - OMG! |
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File under Exhibitions Ducati
Author: Mike Werner
Location: Milan, Italy
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There wasn't much suspense with the unveiling of the Ducati Multistrada 1200 motorcycle, since the photos had already leaked a few days ago. But nevertheless, it's a motorcycle that has been anticipated for a while, and seeing it in full glory, live, is something different from seeing studio photos.
But when Claudio presented the "monster", it became clear that Ducati had surpassed themselves when designing the successor to the Multistrada 1100, and they done a great job. Ducati have created a truly versatile motorcycle. Here are the highlights. The press packs will be given to us tomorrow.
The Multistrada 1200 has four modes, selectable by a button on the dash board. You select sport, touring, urban and enduro. Depending on what you select, the available power changes, from 100 hp to 150 hp, as does the power delivery. Smooth riding for touring, sport riding for sport.
The motorcycle also has the Ducati Traction Control (DTC), and an electronically adjusted suspension system (DES). Again, depending on the mode chosen, the suspension adjusts to a new preset value (which you can change). The suspension also adjust itself according to the load on the bike (pillion and cargo).
Throttle control is electronic; Ride-by-wire, just like the best jet-fighter planes. The wet clutch is actioned via servo motors, meaning no effort to clutch. Optional on all version of the 1200 is ABS.
The ignition is hands free. This means that you keep the key on you, and if you're within 2 meters from your bike, you can start it by just pressing a button. Loose the key, and you can activate the motorcycle with a PIN code.
The tires are brand new Pirelli dual road (on/off) 190/55, designed specially for this motorcycle. It still allows you to ride fast in sport mode, with plenty of grip, but also off road.
With the new engine, the manage to consume 15% less gasoline, and burn 65% less fuel versus air intake. Running at 120 kph, the 20 liter fuel tank will bring you 400 kms further.
The 6th gear is "long", meant for touring with less vibrations and less fuel consumption. The pillion position (as for the rider) was restudied for ergonomics.
Dry weight is 189 kgs. Three version will be offered, including the normal "S" version, and a tourer version.
More when I get a chance and more data, but from the initial data, I'd say Ducati have a winner.
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