Ducati Multistrada 1260 launched in India at Rs 15.99 lakhs

- Available in standard and S trims

- Powered by a bigger 1262cc V-twin engine

- Competes against the BMW R 1200 GS 

The 2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 has been launched in India at Rs 15.99 lakhs. The motorcycle is available in two trims, standard and S, with the latter being priced at Rs 18.06 lakhs (both ex-showroom). 

Visually, the Multistrada 1260 gets a slightly revised fairing to improve airflow and lighter five-spoke wheels. The Multistrada 1260 is based on a similar architecture, although the steering rake has been increased by one degree. It also gets a new 1262cc V-twin DVT powertrain previously seen in the XDiavel. The engine churns out 156bhp and 129Nm of torque. Although the power output is 2bhp down from the older 1200, the new engine delivers 85 per cent more torque below 3500rpm.

As for rider aids, the Multistrada 1260 gets vehicle hold control to make it easier to start on inclines, four riding modes, power modes, cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control and cruise control. The riding modes alter the power output and the throttle response. The rider can play with the full 158bhp in Sport and Touring modes, whereas it is dropped down to 100bhp in Urban and Enduro modes. 

The Multistrada 1260 S further adds electronic Skyhook suspension, a bi-directional quickshifter, colour TFT display and LED headlamps with cornering function to the equation. Both the bikes get anti-theft system and a multimedia system which can be paired with your phone.

While the Multistrada 1260 is available only in red, the 1260 S can be specified in white, grey and red. The first two paint schemes of the 1260 S get gold wheels while the red bike gets black wheels. Pegged as a sports touring motorcycle, the Multistrada 1260 competes against the BMW R 1200 GS and the Triumph Tiger 1200.