STYLING
Apart from the new heart and chassis, the new Multistrada 1260 family sees new fairing panels and lighter, sportier looking wheels. Out front, the 1260 has the same busy face with the teardrop-shaped twin LED headlamps engulfed in a curvy V-shaped front fascia, which also comes with Ducati cornering lights (DCL) as well for the ‘S’ variant and above.
The design of the beak-shaped short fender positioned below the headlamps which stretch all the way from the fuel tank and end up in a nose-shaped dual air vent. The screen is lowered to have better visibility during those on-the-pegs off-road riding.
The new side fairings give the Multistradas a neater, sleeker look giving a cleaner contrast for the front and rear visual mass. The partly exposed trellis frame enhances the side profile and lends it the exotic appeal which the Ducatis’ are renowned for. The rear frame, however, gets a black treatment. The Pikes Peak edition has that in red while the rest sees the frame in black.
While the Multistrada 1260 carries an LCD dash, the S and above variants get 5” TFT units also seen on the new Panigale V4 that incorporates the Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) for music and navigation via a smartphone and handlebar mounted switches. This Multistrada also has a hands-free system that gives keyless ignition for enhanced security.
The handlebar does get crash guards on both the sides ahead of palm grips and comes with integrated LED turn indicators in them. The backlit switchgear is the same of that of the Enduro and is ergonomically placed for better convenience. The rear grab handles are also borrowed from the 1200 Enduro, which can now accommodate the Touratech aluminum side panniers offered as an alternative to the plastic panniers (both optional).
The Pikes Peak enjoys even more gizmos like the Golden Ohlins forks, Ohlins shock, short plexiglass windscreen, forged aluminum wheels, red saddle stitching and light Termignoni exhaust. They also feature carbon fiber cosmetic touches like the front mudguard, hands-free cover and front side panels. Special paintwork to commemorate Ducati’s three victories in America’s famous hill climb event sports on this 1260 Pikes Peak.
Overall Dimension
Make Model | 2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 | BMW R 1200 GS Adventure | Triumph Tiger 1200 XCa |
Length | 86.6 in | 88.8 in | 86.6 in |
Width | 37.4 in | 38.6 in | 36.6 in |
Height | 55.1 in | 57.1 in | 60.3 in |
Wheelbase | 62.4 in | 59.4 in | 59.8 in |
Seat height | 32.3 in | 35 in | 32.8 in |
Wet weight | 511 lb | 580 lb | 547 lb |
Fuel Tank | 5.3 gal | 7.9 gal | 5.2 gal |
PRICE
The new Multistate 1260 comes with a starting price tag of $ 18,695. The 1260 S costs $ 20,995 while the top of the range 1260 Pikes Peak will come at $ 24,995.
Each one in the Multistrada 1260 family can be equipped with one or more Ducati Performance accessory packages along with individual packs like the Touring Pack (which includes heated grips, panniers and center stand), the Urban Pack (with top case, tank bag with tank lock and USB hub to charge electronic devices), the Enduro Pack (consisting of supplementary LED lights and Ducati Performance components by Touratech: engine crash bars, radiator crash bars, sump guard, a broader kickstand base and off-road foot pegs).
Make Model | 2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 | BMW R 1200 GS Adventure | Triumph Tiger 1200 XCa |
MSRP | $ 18,695 – $ 24,995 | $ 18,895 | $ 21,750 |
2020 Ducati Multistrada 1260 / 1260 S / 1260 Pikes Peak Features
Engine
DVT system
Developed and fine-tuned by Ducati engineers, the DVT system optimizes performance and fluidity of delivery at all end speed levels.
Displacement and torque
Thanks to its new displacement of 1262 cc, the new Multistrada 1260 engine sets outstanding new riding and performance standards.
Exhaust system
In order to achieve the extraordinary performance of the new Multistrada 1260, the exhaust and intake systems were also redesigned. The exhaust has a new pipe design, a new internal layout of the pre-damper and a new silencer, while the air intake inlet area has also been redesigned.
Desmo appeal
The Ducati Testastretta DVT also uses the engine valve timing system that has made Ducati famous throughout the world.
Chassis
Frame
The new Multistrada 1260 chassis is based on the use of a new frame and a longer swingarm. The steering angle has been increased by 1 degree, from 24° to 25° while the swingarm, also new, is 48 mm longer.
Suspensions
The S version suspensions of the new Multistrada 1260 are of the semi-active type and are controlled by the Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) Evolution system.
Tires and rims
The new Multistrada 1260, 1260 S and 1260 S D|Air are all equipped with light alloy rims with five Y-shaped spokes, 340 grams lighter than those mounted on the previous model.
New Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak
In addition to the dedicated racing inspired livery, the new Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak is equipped with new forged aluminum wheels, an exceptional 6.6 lbs lighter than those used on the new Multistrada 1260 S.
Riding Mode
Sport Riding Mode
Selecting the Sport Riding Mode delivers an adrenaline powered motorcycle, driven by 158 hp with a torque of 129.5 Nm and a sporting setup of suspensions in the S versions.
Touring Riding Mode
See also
In Touring Riding Mode the maximum power remains of 158 HP, but the engine delivery is softer and more progressive.
Urban Riding Mode
The power delivery of the Urban Riding Mode is reduced to 100 hp and in the S versions the suspension setting is ideal for easily overcoming frequent urban obstacles
Enduro Riding Mode
In addition to long journeys on motorways and city traffic, the new Multistrada 1260 also deals brilliantly with dirt roads.
Equipment
ABS Cornering
The entire Multistrada 1260 family is equipped with the Brembo braking system fitted with the ABS 9.1ME Cornering device, an integral part of the Ducati Safety Pack (DSP).
Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) Evolution
The Ducati Skyhook Suspension Evolution system has been tweaked even further, with new forks and new sensors.
Vehicle Hold Control
The ABS that is installed on the new Multistrada 1260 is equipped with the Vehicle Hold Control (VHC) system. When activated, the system keeps the vehicle still by activating the rear brake (and automatically deactivates after 9 seconds if it is not used).
New TFT instrument panel
The new Multistrada 1260 is equipped with a high visibility LCD instrument panel with a new information display and simplified menu management.
POWERTRAIN
The new Ducati Multistrada 1260 has been bestowed with the same 90-degree V-twin Ducati Teststretta DVT engine as found on the standard Multistrada but gets its stroke increased from 67.9 to 71.5 mm. This, which ensures an optimized power and torque delivery, thanks to a new throttle control that works in conjunction with the Ride By Wire system for an enhanced experience.
Climbed all the way to the top of the sport touring segment, the new 1260 is for the riders who want more from the segment. And rightly so, the 1260 is powered by the 1262cc DVT (Desmodromic Variable Valve Timing) L-twin engine borrowed from the XDiav el which is capable of pumping 85% of the torque at just 3500 rpm. Peak power of 158 hp comes at 9,500 rpm and 95.5 lb-ft of torque at 7,500.
Of which, 85% comes before the rpm hits 3,500, meaning, the Multistrada 1260 offers the highest torque output in its class at the most frequently used range. That makes the 1260 the most powerful adventure tourer in its class and to handle all that power, Ducati has a new Ride-by-Wire system and DQS (Ducati Quick Shift) Up & Down which significantly improves the riding experience (standard from 1260 S and above).
All the power is sent to the rear via a hydraulic-assist “slipper” clutch variety designed to limit back-torque and prevent loss of rear-wheel grip during aggressive downshifts. The six-speed transmission and chain drive handle the final drive ratios. The increased stroke required new connecting rods, crankshaft and cylinders, and so were the new intake and exhaust routings.
The Testastretta uses the Desmodromic valve actuation that operates the intake and exhaust valves mechanically for those precise throttle responses with no springs to be compressed. The Desmodromic Variable Timing (DVT) hydraulically operates camshaft-phasers to manipulate camshaft position that is actuated by solenoid valves. All of this equals to precise camshaft timings and a smooth build-up of power. The Anti-knock sensor allows the rider to use a range of fuel qualities without letting the engine stall in some far-off lands.
Finally, the aluminum single 2-chamber silencer acting as a 2-1-2 collector in the 1260 looks neat. Being the pampered one, the Pikes Peak edition gets a carbon fiber Ducati Performance silencer by Termignoni. Both generator and clutch covers are now painted in the new “Mercury Grey” color.
Engine Specification
Make Model | 2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 | BMW R 1200 GS Adventure | Triumph Tiger 1200 XCa |
Capacity cc | 1262cc | 1170 | 1215 |
Bore/ Stroke mm | 106/71.5 | 101/73 | 85/71.4 |
Output | 158 hp @ 9500 rpm | 125 bhp @ 7750 rpm | 141 bhp @ 9350rpm |
Torque | 95.5 lb-ft @ 7500 rpm | 92 ft-lb @ 6500 rpm | 90 lb-ft @ 7600rpm |
Type | Ducati Testastretta DVT with Desmodromic Variable Timing, L-Twin cylinder, 4 valve per cylinder, Dual Spark, liquid cooled | Air/liquid-cooled four stroke flat twin engine with balancer shaft, four valves per cylinder, double overhead camshaft, wet sump lubrication | Liquid-cooled, 12 valve, DOHC, in-¬line 3¬-cylinder |
Clutch type | Light action, wet, multiplate clutch with hydraulic control. Self-servo action on drive, slipper action on over-run | Oil lubricated clutch, hydraulically operated | Wet, multi-plate hydraulically operated |
Transmission | 6-speed with quickshifter | 6-speed | 6-speed |
The 2020 Ducati Multistrada 1260, 1260 S, & 1260 Pikes Peak
Contents
Ducati’s flagship adventure-focused motorcycle is back for , with just enough new features to make it an improvement on last year’s model. If you’re looking for an all-purpose Ducati with a do-anything and go-anywhere character, you can’t go wrong with the Multistrada 1260.
The Multistrada 1260 is powered by the latest generation of Ducati’s 1262cc Testastretta DVT v-twin engine, which produces a hearty 158 horsepower, and a class-leading 129.5 lb-ft of peak torque. It’s a veritable powerhouse, but the power is surprisingly manageable, with smoother delivery, responsive acceleration, and with plenty of torque in the low- and mid-range, making every day riding a pleasure.
All of that power is kept in check with Ducati’s advanced electric suite, which includes an IMU that governs the ABS and cornering lighting, traction control, wheelie control, Skyhook suspension, and the clever Vehicle Hold Control system that facilitates easy hill starts. Other new features include redesigned chassis components, such as Y-shaped 5-spoke wheels, a longer swingarm, and a revised front end.
For 2020, the Multistrada is available in three different configurations. The standard Multistrada 1260 is available in Ducati Red, with prices starting from $18,995.
The more advanced Multistrada S features a number of extra riding aids, including Skyhook suspension, a quickshifter, cornering lights, and a full color TFT display to name a few, is available in Ducati Red or Volcano Grey, with prices starting from $21,295.
Lastly, there’s the Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak, which has all of the performance-focused parts found on the Ducati’s Pikes Peak racer. These additions include a Termignoni approved exhaust system, top shelf Öhlins suspension, a Plexiglas windscreen, and carbon fiber parts, The Pikes Peak model is available in a special Pikes Peak livery, with prices starting from $25,795.
On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new Multistrada 1260 / 1260 S / 1260 Pikes Peak in one place.
RIDE AND HANDLING
The new Multistrada 1260 gets the chassis from the 1200 but is updated with an extended swinging arm and wheelbase that changes the riding geometry to a confident feel and provides in for sharper handling and stability by the rider. The steering angle sees a 1-degree increase giving the 1260 longer wheelbase ensuring full stability and sharper handling on the curves.
The electronic package includes the Bosch IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) controlling the 3-level Cornering ABS, Cruise control, 4 Riding modes, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and the new Vehicle Hold Control (VHC). The 1260 S and above models have Ducati Cornering Lights (DCL) functionality incorporated in the full LED headlight and the semi-active Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) Evolution control system that allows suspension setting on the fly via the TFT setup.
The 1260 gets Kayaba 48 mm upside-down fork and Sachs monoshock while the S and above gets Sachs 48 mm front fork. Braking is handled by dual 320mm front brake discs with radially-mounted Brembo Monobloc 4-piston calipers and one 265mm rear disc with a 2-piston caliper. On the S and above, larger 330mm dual front brake discs with radial Brembo Monobloc Evo M50 4-piston calipers does the job.
Both suspension systems provide 170 mm travel, enough to give a supple ride even when fully loaded on soft 0ff-road terrains. Featuring new on the 1260 are the proprietary light alloy five Y-spoke wheels, which are lighter than those used on any Multistrada to date. All variants of the 1260 get 17” wheels sporting Pirelli SCORPION Trail II tires.
The “The Race to the Clouds” Pikes Peak edition takes it up a notch with new forged aluminum wheels, which are lighter than those of the Multistrada 1260 S. In addition, the bike is fitted with the Öhlins fork and Öhlins TTX36 shock, which can both be adjusted mechanically.
Chassis Specifications
Make Model | 2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 | BMW R 1200 GS Adventure | Triumph Tiger 1200 XCa |
Frame | Tubular steel Trellis frame | Two-section frame, front- and bolted on rear frame, load-bearing engine | Tubular steel Trellis frame |
Suspension / Front | Sachs 48 mm fully adjustable USD forks. Electronic compression and rebound damping adjustment with Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) | BMW Motorrad Telelever; stanchion diameter 37 mm, central spring strut | WP 48 mm upside down forks, electronically adjustable damping, 190 mm travel |
Suspension / Rear | Fully adjustable Sachs unit. Electronic compression & rebound damping adjustment. Electronic spring pre-load adjustment with Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS). Aluminum double-sided swingarm | Cast aluminum single-sided swing arm with BMW Motorrad Paralever; WAD strut (travel-related damping), spring pre-load hydraulically adjustable (continuously variable) at handwheel, rebound damping adjustable at handwheel | WP monoshock, electronically adjustable semi-active damping with automatic preload adjustment, 193 mm wheel travel |
Brakes / Front | 2 x 320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted monobloc Brembo callipers, 4-piston, 2-pad, with cornering ABS as standard equipment | Dual disc brake, floating brake discs, diameter 305 mm, 4-piston radial calipers, BMW Motorrad Integral ABS | Twin 305 mm floating discs, Nissin 4-piston calipers, Switchable ABS |
Brakes / Rear | 265 mm disc, 2-piston floating caliper, with cornering ABS as standard equipment | Single disc brake, diameter 276 mm, double-piston floating caliper, BMW Motorrad Integral ABS | Single 282 mm disc, Nissin 2-piston sliding caliper, Switchable ABS |
Tyres / Front | Pirelli Scorpion Rally II 120/70 R17 | 120/70 R 19 | 120/70 R19 |
Tyres / Rear | Pirelli Scorpion Rally II 190/55 R17 | 170/60 R 17 | 170/60 R17 |
2020 Ducati Multistrada 1260 / 1260 S / 1260 Pikes Peak Specifications
Engine | 1262 cc, Ducati Testastretta DVT with Desmodromic Variable Timing, L-Twin cylinder, 4 valves per cylinder, Dual Spark, liquid cooled | |
Power | 158 HP | |
Bore x Stroke | 106 mm x 71.5 mm | |
Compression Ratio | 13:1 | |
Fuel System | Bosch electronic fuel injection system, elliptical throttle bodies with Ride-by-Wire, equivalent diameter 56 mm | |
Starter | Electric | |
Exhaust | Stainless steel muffler with catalytic converter and 2 lambda probes, aluminum tail pipes | |
Clutch | Light action, wet, multiplate clutch with hydraulic control. Self-servo action on drive, slipper action on over-run | |
Transmission | 6 Speed | |
Final Drive | Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 40 | |
Suspension Front | ||
Suspension Rear | Fully adjustable Sachs monoshock unit. Remote spring preload adjustment. Aluminum single-sided swingarm | |
Brakes Front | 2 x 320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted monobloc Brembo callipers, 4-piston, 2-pad, with Bosch Cornering ABS as standard equipment | |
Brakes Rear | 265 mm disc, 2-piston floating calliper, with Bosch Cornering ABS as standard equipment | |
Tires Front | Pirelli Scopion Trail II 120/70 R17 | |
Tires Rear | Pirelli Scorpion Trail II 190/55 R17 | |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 l (5.3 US Gal) | |
Color | Ducati Red | |
Ignition | ||
Spark Plugs | ||
Headlight | LED | |
Tail Light | LED | |
Overall Length | ||
Overall Width | ||
Height | ||
Wheelbase | 1,585 mm (62.4 in) | |
Trail | 111 mm (4.37 in) | |
Seat Height | Adjustable 825 – 845 mm (32.5 – 33.3 in) | |
Dry Weight | 209 kg (461 lb) | |
Warranty | 24 months unlimited mileage | |
Extension |