2013 Ducati Multistrada 1200

2013 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Touring

The new 1200 S Touring expresses the Multistrada philosophy to perfection. Thanks to the new Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS), the S Touring actively responds to the challenges thrown up by the terrain. Stylish panniers, heated grips and a practical centre stand make it a bike that was born to travel.

• 4 bikes in 1

Ducati's four-bikes-in-one concept is achieved by selecting from a choice of four pre-set Riding Modes programmed to instantly change the engine character and the riding parameters of the Multistrada 1200 - even while riding. The four modes are made possible by combining a number of class-leading technologies. An electronic Ride-by-Wire (RbW) system administers different mappings to regulate power delivery by interpreting the rider's throttle input, while the world-beating Ducati Traction Control system (DTC) uses eight levels of system interaction to enhance control by reducing wheel-spin. For 2013, ABS is also programmed to offer the optimum setting appropriate to the Riding Mode selected and, for the ‘S' versions, Sachs electronic suspension front and rear not only configures the suspension set-up with Riding Mode appropriate electronic adjustment, but Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) now also instantly reacts to additional inputs to maintain overall vehicle composure for a smoother ride.

• Testastretta 11° DS

The Testastretta 11° engine was introduced on the Multistrada 1200 in 2010. Derived from the Superbike 1198 engine, it achieved brilliant results when valve overlap was reduced from 41° (typical of sport engines) to 11°, losing some peak power in favour of improved overall smoothness, especially in the mid-range.

The new Multistrada family introduces the second generation of Testastretta 11° DS engines with several new features that make it even smoother and more tractable. Dual Spark ignition (DS) uses two plugs per cylinder to ensure complete combustion in very short time. The fuel injectors have been relocated to aim the jet of fuel directly at the hotter rear end of the suction valve, so that all fuel is atomised. A secondary air system similar to that of the 1199 Panigale has been introduced to optimise operation and reduce cyclic combustion variability without affecting emissions. A controlled flow of fresh air is supplied to the exhaust duct to enable complete oxidisation of hot unburnt gases, to effectively reduce hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide levels.

With 150 hp power, 12.7 Kgm (124.5 Nm) torque and 10% less consumption (at 90 kph), the Testastretta 11° DS engine sets a new benchmark for Ducati twin-cylinder engines.

• Sachs active control suspension

The current Multistrada 1200 'S' versions are equipped with 48-mm front fork and Sachs rear monoshock, both integrated with the Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) system. In addition to providing compression and rebound damping and rear suspension spring preload adjustment - either automatic adjustment integrated with the Riding Modes or customised through the on-board computer - the system is characterised by semi-active suspension adjusted continually to ensure perfect vehicle balance, so that the bike seems to run off the ground, gliding in the air.

The current Multistrada 1200 'S' versions are equipped with 48-mm front fork and Sachs rear monoshock, both integrated with the Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) system. In addition to providing compression and rebound damping and rear suspension spring preload adjustment - either automatic adjustment integrated with the Riding Modes or customised through the on-board computer - the system is characterised by semi-active suspension adjusted continually to ensure perfect vehicle balance, so that the bike seems to run off the ground, gliding in the air.