When you think of adventure bikes, you probably imagine rugged machines with loads of practicality but not much charm. Then along comes the Ducati Multistrada V4 S, and it throws all those ideas straight out the window. It’s stylish, powerful, surprisingly comfortable, and brimming with tech. And frankly, it’s left me wondering how a bike this complete even exists. Let’s break down what makes this motorcycle so special.
Table of Contents
Styling
Right off the bat, let’s talk looks. Because this is no clunky ADV – the Multistrada V4 S is a piece of Italian art on two wheels. Ducati’s designers have somehow made a tall, bulky adventure bike look graceful and purposeful. Those sharp LED headlights with eyebrow-like DRLs, the short and sleek beak, and the sculpted fuel tank all work together to make it one of the most attractive motorcycles in its segment.
Add to that the exposed red trellis subframe and a beautifully integrated tail section, and what you get is an ADV that’s just as appealing to stare at as it is to ride. The Iceberg White paint on the test unit was the cherry on top, standing out even more in real life than in pictures.
Quality
When it comes to build, Ducati has nailed it. Every component feels premium – the paint, the touch of the switchgear, and the seamless body panel fitment. There are tiny areas that could be better, like the windscreen adjuster which is a bit fiddly and the smartphone pocket cover that doesn’t click shut as confidently as you’d expect. But really, these are minor gripes on an otherwise flawless machine.
Ergonomics
The Multistrada V4 S offers a surprising level of comfort and adjustability. With seat height options ranging from 790mm to 875mm (thanks to accessory kits), it caters to both shorter and taller riders. I had no trouble planting my feet at a stop, and the seat was roomy enough for my 6-foot frame. Even after an entire day in the saddle, I felt fresh. That says a lot.
Comfort
What really sets the comfort apart is Ducati’s Skyhook electronic suspension. A few button presses let you tweak preload and damping settings based on the terrain. Hard settings make the bike feel agile and sharp on smooth roads. Switch to a softer setup and it transforms into a plush cruiser over rough city roads.
This versatility isn’t just great for solo rides – even my pillion was impressed with the comfort level. The suspension soaks up potholes like a sponge, making long-distance touring a breeze.
Performance
Now we get to the heart of the beast – the 1,158cc Granturismo V4 engine. With 170bhp and 125Nm, it’s the most powerful ADV in India. What’s wild is how docile it feels in Urban mode – smooth, manageable, and totally in control even in city traffic.
But switch to Sport mode, and it’s like flipping a switch on a jet engine. The Multistrada roars, surges, and launches like a sportsbike. The speedometer struggles to keep up with how quickly the bike devours tarmac. It’s genuinely thrilling, but also calm and composed when you need it to be. Touring mode, for instance, lets you cruise effortlessly all day long.
Handling
You’d think a big bike like this would be a handful, but no. It feels balanced, nimble, and astonishingly flickable. It’s like riding a much smaller bike through traffic, and it dances through corners with grace. The 19-inch front wheel doesn’t dull the feedback either – the front end feels precise and responsive. Even the brakes are strong and progressive, offering top-tier performance.
Features
Ducati hasn’t skimped on features. The V4 S comes packed with tech like multi-level traction control, cornering ABS, wheelie control, and power modes. The Skyhook suspension is electronically adjustable too.
Then there’s the radar-based adaptive cruise control and blind spot detection. The former keeps your highway cruise smooth and stress-free, adjusting your speed based on the traffic ahead. The latter alerts you to vehicles sneaking up behind, adding a layer of safety that’s actually useful – especially when riding with a passenger and luggage.
Mileage
Fuel economy isn’t its strongest suit, but it’s respectable for the power it offers. Expect around 15–15.5kmpl on highways. The 22-litre tank means you’ll get over 300km before needing to refuel. Ride it hard, though, and you’ll see single-digit figures.
| Riding Mode | Fuel Efficiency (kmpl) | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Urban | 14–15 | City commuting |
| Touring | 15–15.5 | Highway cruising |
| Sport | 9–12 | Aggressive riding |
It’s not perfect, but it’s not meant to be an economy bike either.
There’s something magical about the Ducati Multistrada V4 S. It stirs emotion in a way few motorcycles can. Yes, it costs a jaw-dropping Rs. 26.70 lakh (ex-showroom), but if you’re lucky enough to afford one, this is more than just a motorcycle. It’s a memory machine, a soul-stirrer, and a damn good reason to hit the road just because. I’ll keep dreaming, but if you can make it a reality – do it. This isn’t just an adventure bike, it’s the adventure bike.
FAQs
What is the price of Multistrada V4 S?
The Ducati Multistrada V4 S costs Rs. 26.70 lakh (ex-showroom).
How much power does the V4 S make?
It produces 170bhp and 125Nm of torque.
Is the seat height adjustable?
Yes, from 790mm to 875mm with accessories.
Does it have radar-based cruise control?
Yes, it includes adaptive cruise control and blind spot detection.
What is the fuel tank capacity?
It has a 22-litre fuel tank.
