Ducati Multistrada 950 S, Track Test

The Ducati Multistrada 950 S in its 2021 iteration brings with it some substantial updates. Aside from the BS6 compliant engine, this refreshed version of the mid-size ADV also features Ducati’s semi-active Skyhook suspension – something that has considerably changed the way it rides.

Tipping the scale at 229kgs, the Multistrada 950 S is a heavy motorcycle, and there’s no denying the fact that it does feel top-heavy at slow speeds. But once you are on the move, all of its weight is superbly masked. The suspension gives you insane adjustability with respect to preload as well as damping, and all of it can be done while on the move.

When we first rode it around Mumbai, we found the hardest setting rather pointless, but at the BIC, it really made the Multi 950 feel right at home – that’s saying something, given that it isn’t a track-focused motorcycle. Its direction changes are smooth and quick, even with its high centre of gravity and weight. The ride quality in softer settings is up to the mark too.

The 113bhp producing 937cc motor feels like it has taken a few adrenaline shots. While its peak power comes higher in the rev range, a sizeable chunk of its torque kicks in from as low as 3,500rpm, which makes it a reasonably quick motorcycle. That said, the Multi couldn’t better the lap time set by the BMW F 750 GS and the F 850 GS that we tested for our ‘Best of 2018’ – possibly due to the scanty low-end grunt. That aside, the Ducati’s motor doesn’t feel as refined as that of the BMW either. The Multi also lost some valuable points in the Comfort & Practicality and VFM categories. The Multi’s gearing isn’t quite city-friendly, and the motor also tends to heat up in traffic. Additionally, it also demands about ₹2 lakh more than the Triumph Tiger 900 GT. Sure, the Multi 950 is far from perfect, but it is definitely greater than the sum of its parts. Besides, it is easily the hottest mid-size ADV you can get your hands on.

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