Up front, the relatively upright 24° rake, two 320-mm discs, Brembo four-piston calipers, a radial master cylinder and a 17-inch alloy wheel contribute to the bike’s efficiency and agility. At the rear, the 17-inch wheel equipped with a 245-mm brake and two-piston caliper holds its own, no problems.

Ergonomics
I liked the quality of the machine’s finish, as well as the handy storage compartment in the right side fairing, which locks with the ignition key and is roomy enough to stuff a compact raincoat.

The various gauges and indicators work with the on-board computer to provide the usual info as well as more specific data, such as average fuel consumption and the amount of fuel left in the tank. The handlebar controls get the job done, except for the flasher switch: it’s too small, hard to use and doesn’t reset automatically.

The excellent riding position features a wide and fairly high (850 mm from the ground) saddle, with the footpeg-saddle-handlebar triangle well suited for touring. The relatively straight up riding position will please those under six feet tall on short and long treks, despite a front fairing that protects well from frontal air blast but does let some turbulence through from the sides at higher speeds.

Braking is still solid and surprise-free, thanks largely to Mr. Brembo.

Great fun on the road
As the kilometres rolled by with my back nice and straight, my hands fell naturally on the handlebars, ensuring hours of riding without strain, while the low windshield didn’t obstruct my view.

The light and precise steering handle asphalt just as well as smooth dirt roads, and even encourages aggressive corner entry and exits-on pavement! No sideways exits from dirt corners however on this tall and heavy machine. The front geometry avoids giving the impression of the bike is about to fall in, or is trying to right itself, which allows you to stay on your trajectory without having to pull or push on the handlebar.

Braking is still solid and surprise-free, thanks largely to Mr. Brembo, while the powerful and flexible engine encourages sporting riding, with great throttle response enhanced by effortless gearshifts.

A great mix that could nevertheless use some refreshing
Light, easy to handle, powerful and fun, the Multistrada 1100 will delight the Ducati fans of today and tomorrow. A sure bet, the Multistrada could nonetheless use an update in the performance and user-friendliness departments for all rider body types, especially us bulkier North Americans when compared to Euro-shrimp builds.

One thing is for sure: All of us (65 to 110 kg) appreciated the bike’s qualities, which makes it a sure bet for any buyer who is attracted by the bike’s appearance and characteristics.



Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux