Ducati Multistrada 1200S, Track Test

It’s a shame that the Multistrada 1200S missed out on an award this year, because it certainly was one of the best bikes that we tested in 2016. Joining the Multistrada family, the 1200 S was designed for Ducatistas who wanted a touring motorcycle with sport-bike performance. And though the Multistrada 1200S is a tourer and a sports bike packaged into one bike, it’s the cutting-edge technology that allows it to be many different motorcycles rolled into one.

The only thing that the 1200S shares with the older Multistrada is the trellis frame. Everything has been updated, including the Testastretta L-twin – which now incorporates Desmodromic Valve Timing (DVT). This allows for variable valve timing for both the intake and exhaust camshafts, which is the first time that anyone has offered this system on a motorcycle. This allows for faster and smoother power delivery in the mid and high revs. There are also four riding modes to choose from, which means you can have four different riding styles where the power, suspension, traction and ABS can be tuned to your liking. The engine really does perform extremely well, and like all Ducatis it offers you raw power on demand. The bike also handles nicely, and we had a lot of fun with it on the track. What we really liked is that you can always adjust the suspension electronically to suit your style.

Besides the high-tech features, the 1200S is also very comforta
ble to ride. And thanks to its adjustable seat, shorter riders can easily saddle up with their feet firmly on the ground. This makes it accessible to almost anyone – well, anyone with deep pockets anyway!

The Multistrada has always been a fast and addictive sports tourer, and the 1200S has made it even more impressive. The bike looks great with its muscular and aggressive stance, and it gets a long list of some of the most innovative electronics and features available on a motorcycle. But, more importantly, it’s got an improved Testastretta engine.

It certainly is one of the best all-rounder motorcycles around today – but it will cost you!

<< BACK TO: BEST OF 2016NEXT>>: Triumph Street Twin