Review of Ducati Multistrada V4 RS 2024
What results from exchanging the 1,158cc V4 Granturismo engine of the Multistrada with the 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale engine from the Panigale? The outcome is the 2024 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS, featuring a dry clutch, 17-inch wheels, and lightweight components crafted from carbon fiber and titanium.
Is there a genuine need for a Multistrada adapted for the race track? Perhaps not, but in a world where Bagger racing exists, the pertinent question is how well does it deliver on this premise? Answers to this question will be unveiled soon, as Troy Siahaan from Motorcycle Online (MO) is among the first individuals outside Bologna to experience the V4 RS. Stay tuned for his comprehensive review next week. In the meantime, here’s what we know.
Manufactured in a limited series to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Multistrada line, the V4 RS stands as the new flagship model with an MSRP of US$37,995, surpassing the Pikes Peak model by $6,400, which previously held the title of the sportiest Multistrada V4.
The Desmosedici Stradale engine injects a distinctive character into the Multistrada V4 RS. With a 1,103cc displacement, it brings Ducati’s long-standing Desmodromic valves, enabling the engine to reach an elevated rev limit of 13,500 rpm. The Multi V4 RS also incorporates the more permeable air filter from the Panigale V4 R and a specially developed Akrapovič silencer.
Ducati asserts a peak output of 180 hp at 12,250 rpm and 87 lb-ft. at 9,500 rpm. While not quite reaching the levels of the Panigale or Streetfighter V4, Ducati aimed for a balance between pure superbike performance and preserving some of the Multistrada’s versatility.
Similar to the SP2 versions of the Panigale and Streetfighter V4, the Multistrada V4 RS is equipped with a billet aluminum STM-EVO SBK dry clutch. While the gear ratios remain unchanged from the regular Multistrada V4 models, Ducati shortened the final drive ratio to enhance acceleration.
Beyond a simple engine swap, Ducati modified the chassis to accommodate the 17-inch front wheel. This involved introducing a new version of the Multistrada’s monocoque aluminum frame, resulting in a sportier rake angle, trail, and wheelbase. Ducati also utilized a lightweight titanium rear subframe, claiming a 5.5-pound weight reduction compared to the standard Multistrada seat support.
Forged Marchesini aluminum wheels contribute to a claimed additional 6.0-pound weight reduction compared to the V4 S. These wheels are paired with Diablo Rosso IV Corsa tires, featuring a 120/70 up front and a 190/55 at the back.
Footrests were repositioned higher and further back, providing the RS with a greater lean angle compared to the regular Multistradas. The handlebar is lower and narrower, creating a sportier riding posture that falls short of the extreme nature of bikes with clip-ons.
The front wheel is equipped with dual Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers, akin to the Multistrada V4 S but with pads from the Panigale V4. The rear wheel is matched with a single Brembo floating caliper. Managing the braking system is the Bosch-Brembo 10.3ME Cornering ABS system.
The Multistrada V4 RS shares the same Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 “event-based” system as the Pikes Peak model, Panigale, and Streetfighter V4 S. This system adapts to different riding styles, with Touring and Sport Riding modes receiving new calibrations unique to the RS.
The rest of the electronics package mirrors that of the Multistrada V4 S, including radar-backed Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection, selectable power modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, and the new Race mode replacing Enduro), lean-sensitive traction control, wheelie control, engine brake control, and an up-and-down quick shift. All electronic settings can be viewed on the 6.5-inch TFT dashboard, which also supports phone mirroring for displaying navigation through the Ducati Connect system.
Ducati utilized carbon fiber for the RS’ beak, front fender, handguards, and heat shields. While specific weight figures haven’t been released, the use of carbon parts along with lighter wheels and subframe, coupled with a smaller battery, is expected to result in a lighter package than the Pikes Peak model’s claimed 527 pounds.
The 2024 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS is set to arrive in dealerships in January, featuring an Iceberg White livery. Ducati has also prepared a range of accessories, including additional carbon fiber and billet aluminum components, along with various luggage and windscreen options.
2024 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS Specifications:
- Engine Type: Ducati V4 Desmosedici stradale, V4 – 90°, 4 valves per cylinder, counter-rotating crankshaft, twin pulse firing order, semi dry sump, liquid cooled
- Displacement: 1,103cc (67 cu in)
- Power: 180 hp at 12,250 rpm (claimed)
- Torque: 87.0 lb-ft. at 9,500 rpm (claimed)
- Frame: Aluminum monocoque frame
- Front Suspension: Öhlins Ø48 mm fully adjustable usd fork with TiN treatment, electronic compression and rebound damping adjustment with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 event-based mode
- Rake: 25.75º
- Trail: 4.7 in (120mm)
- Wheelbase: 62.7 in (1,592 mm)
- Front Tire: Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV Corsa 120/70 ZR17
- Rear Suspension: Öhlins TTX36 fully adjustable monoshock, electronic compression and rebound damping adjustment with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 event-based mode, electronic preload adjustment, aluminium single-sided swingarm
- Rear Tire: Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV Corsa 190/55 ZR17
- Front Brake: 2 x Ø330 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Stylema monobloc 4-piston 2-pad callipers, radial master cylinder, Cornering ABS
- Rear Brake: Ø265 mm disc, Brembo 2-piston floating calliper, Cornering ABS
- Seat Height: Adjustable, 840 mm – 860 mm (33.1 in – 33.9 in)
- Fuel Capacity: 22 l (5.8 US gal)
- Safety Equipment: Riding Modes, Power Modes, ABS Cornering, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, Daytime Running Light, Ducati Cornering Light, Ducati Brake Light, Vehicle Hold Control, Radar system (Adaptive Cruise Control + Blind Spot Detection)
- Standard Equipment: Öhlins Smart EC
