DUCATI’S MULTISTRADA V-FOUR: MORE ADVENTURE, MORE TECH, LESS WEIGHT

Ducati has decided to shake up the Adventure bike world with a four-cylinder, 19-inch front-wheel machine aimed at beating BMW and KTM at their own game. Prices range from $28,990 to $40,690 in Australia, ride away. Here are some of the highlights:

• 170hp (125kW) @ 10, 500rpm/125Nm @ 8750rpm

• 19-inch front wheel (laced available)

• 215kg dry weight

• Aluminium monocoque frame, steel tubes subframe and aluminium double-sided swing arm

• 60,000km major service intervals

• Designed for long-distance riding on any road surface

• 22L fuel capacity

• Seat heights from 810-875mm

• Improved rider and pillion comfort

• Comprehensive electronics

• Improved ground clearance

At its core the new Multistrada appears to be more about touring – on and off the bitumen – than previous models. Of the V-twins, only the Enduro and 950 had a 19-inch front wheel; all