2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Launch Ride Review

Design

The overall design of the bike hasn’t changed much as Ducati considers the 1260S a facelift and not a generation change. However, the fairings are new and sleeker. This has also resulted in the bike sporting a partial exposed frame. The frame colour has changed from red to black which is the major differentiating factor. The beak design has been revised too and is much sharper now. It also gets a larger grab rail and LED indicators. 

The mechanicals

The 1262cc DVT engine on the Multistrada 1260S is based on the XDiavel and comes mated to a six-speed gearbox which sports the Ducati Quickshifter System (DQS). The Desmodronic Valve Timing system has been revised, just like the exhaust and the intake. The bike also gets a new ride-by-wire system, a longer swingarm (which has increased its wheelbase) and a revised geometry to make it a bit saner. This Multistrada now develops more power at 158bhp and the torque has been increased by 1Nm to produce 130Nm. However, Ducati claims that 85 per cent of the torque comes at as low as 3500rpm. 

The Multistrada 1260S gets Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) and Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS). There’s also the Cornering ABS that takes data from the inertial platform (IMU). It also gets Ducati Quick Shift System (DQS), various riding modes and the vehicle hill control. The full-LED headlamps come as standard on the 1260S. The new colour TFT instrument cluster too is alluring. 

The ride

Have the various changes and additions made the bike any different? The answer is YES! The 1260S is a lot smoother. The level of refinement is really good. In fact, this tourer is easily one of the most refined Ducatis. There are miniscule vibes but at the higher-end of the revs. The low-down torque and the linear power delivery makes the 1260S a friendly bike to lug around in the city limits. The mid-range is really strong, and never ending. This makes last minute overtakes a stress-free affair. The throttle response is smooth and crisp, especially when you’re riding hard. At low revs, there’s a bit of jerkiness but that doesn’t bother much. 

The quick-shifter works flawlessly, especially when the throttle is full open. The riding experience on this Multistrada depends on the riding mode one selects. There are four to be precise – Sport, Touring, Enduro and Urban. While the first two gears give out full 158bhp with different throttle response and engine character, the last two limit the power to 100bhp. Depending on the selection, the suspension setup is also adjusted. 

The Multistrada 1260S is also quite composed on the corners. The steering feels light and quick. There’s hardly any sluggishness there. Just point the motorcycle in the direction you want to go and the Multistrada will get you there safely. If you’re in the Sport mode, you will reach the spot with an increased heart rate, thanks to the adrenaline-filled experience. The Brembo M4.32 brakes work efficiently and have enough feedback on the levers. Ducati should have equipped the bike with electronically adjusted windscreen, as the bike commands a hefty price tag. The main stand is also sold as an accessory which is a bit surprising to say the least.

Pricing

The Multistrada 1260S is already on sale in the country at Rs 22.5 lakhs (on-road, Mumbai). There’s a standard variant which is almost Rs 2.5 lakhs cheaper at Rs 19.96 lakhs (on-road, Mumbai). But this variant doesn’t get the Ducati Quickshifter System (DQS), Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS), Ducati Multimedia System (DMS), TFT display, LED and cornering lights. There’s also the top-of-the line Pikes Peak edition that demands a few more lakhs. 

Photography by Asif Zubairi