User Review of Multistrada 1200 S by Shrini

About the Reviewer

After a terrible experience 7 years ago with the earlier mumbai dealer when the first multistrada 1200 was launched, ownership of beautiful but impractical harleys (dyna superglide custom and heritage softail) and looking for a more practical touring ride, the 2016 multistrada was chosen through the new dealer (infinity, mumbai). The purchase experience was great with a test ride readily available and the lightness/smoothness and quick paced demeanor just blew me away! 3 multistradas (2 enduros and 1 1200s) were booked together, with my friends and we eagerly awaited delivery.

In comparison to harleys, which are too low, too slow. Heavy and with sub standard brakes, the 1200s seemed like a breath of fresh air, given how practical the machine seemed, with very less heat from the engine, even in congested traffic. Yes, the engine is a superbike derived powerplant but the best aspect of this motorcycle is the braking capability. Truly phenomenal!

The previous generation multistrada wasn't too much of a looker but the current one is striking enough to win awards for design excellence and beauty. A twin cylinder set up does not keep the bike as smooth as a triple or a four cylinder machine but the torque and dvt technology keeps the supply of power silken smooth and constant throughout the rev range.

Among most buyers of ducati, service used to always be a concern for years, thanks to the previous dealer. This has turned around 360 degrees! fantastic sales, great service and welcoming personnel in the showroom makes the purchase even more sensible!

Pros:

The engine - massively powerful and torquey, helped by dvt.

Braking - carrying over the braking system from their superbikes is a great idea and spells great safety with technology like cornering abs, etc.

Technology - a supercomputer on 2 wheels doesn't begin to speak of all the customization possible in this machine. Other brands sell a ton of accessories to promote the concept of customization but i have always felt that changing the ride characteristics matter, rather than changing the look.

Cons

Seat cushion - here's a flaw keeping in mind touring wishes once the bike is in the stable. The seat is wide but quite hard and devoid of much cushioning.

Side stand width - on 2 occasions, the bike has been unable to be rested on the small/narrow side stand and has tipped over to the left. No damage done but this doesn't seem too safe when taken off road to less traveled roads. This tiny size also keeps one avoiding to get on the bike while its on a stand by placing a leg on the gear shift footrest and swinging the leg over (required for most adventure bikes, among shorter riders, not me).

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