Ducati Multistrada V2: A Complete Redesign, Built Around the Rider
Forget simple cosmetic tweaks, the 2025–2026 Multistrada V2 starts fresh from the ground up. Ducati built it around a revised motor, new frame, and massive weight reduction. The goal? Create a middleweight tourer that feels nimbler, lighter, and far easier to handle without discarding its sport-touring soul. Test riders claim it feels “about 20 years younger” than the previous 950 generation.
The restyled front end takes design cues from the Multistrada V4 and Panigale family. It features a stubby, integrated beak alongside reworked fairings that improve airflow and engine heat deflection, plus a full-LED headlight array for a sharper front profile. Meanwhile, the 5-inch TFT color screen offers a reworked layout for effortless viewing with crisp contrast in sunlight or darkness.
The New 890 cc V2 Engine: Lighter, Smoother, Stronger
Powering this Multistrada V2 is Ducati’s 890 cc 90° V-twin, standing as the lightest twin-cylinder engine produced at Borgo Panigale at a lean 54.4 kg. It incorporates intake variable valve timing to blend gutsy low-end punch with rev-happy top-end performance, all while meeting strict Euro 5+ standards.
Crucially, Ducati tailored this power unit for street flexibility. A 20% heavier flywheel improves low-speed crawling, and a fresh intake bypass setup irons out twitchy throttle responses—solving the abrupt light-throttle behavior of the older 937 cc Testastretta. It feels docile in heavy traffic yet still packs a 115 hp punch when you open it up. Because over 70% of peak torque kicks in at 3,500 rpm, the motor stays forgiving and smooth anywhere in the rev range.
Chassis: Aluminium Monocoque, 18 kg Lighter
The biggest change comes down to chassis construction. Swapping out the old steel trellis, Ducati built an aluminum monocoque frame that grips the engine as a load-bearing member—matching the setup on the Multistrada V4. A steel trellis rear subframe handles tail loads, complemented by a double-sided aluminum swingarm.
This setup trims a massive 18 kg off the bike. The base V2 sits at 199 kg wet without fuel, down from 217 kg on the outgoing model. The upgraded S version registers at 202 kg due to added electronic suspension gear.
Engineers tuned geometry for flickable yet grounded cornering, employing a 1,572 mm wheelbase, a 19-inch front wheel for rough road composure, and 170 mm suspension travel at both ends.
The saddle profile is totally fresh and adjusts between 830 mm and 850 mm on stock models. An optional low seat drops height down to 810–830 mm, while the S variant drops to 790 mm using a factory low-suspension setup. That makes the V2 approachable across different rider heights. Passenger accommodations got a makeover too, offering better leg clearance and seating space for multi-day trips.
Electronics and Rider Aids: The Full Ducati Suite
The updated Multistrada V2 packs an electronic suite driven by a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU), unlocking lean-sensitive rider assists that outpace standard middleweight systems.
Upgrading to the S model provides independent suspension adjustments, meaning you can tweak damping settings without changing throttle mapping or traction intervention—a huge win for individual setup preference.
Travel Trim: Ready to Tour
Ducati sells the Multistrada V2 S in a “Travel” trim, pre-fitted with key touring gear:
Offered in Ducati Red or Storm Green, the Travel edition remains the go-to option for riders using the V2 for serious distance hauling.
A separate Touring accessory kit (part #97981541AA) is available to order, bundling side panniers, a center stand, and heated grips. If you need maximum luggage space, 76-liter aluminum side cases are sold separately, matching the setup on the Multistrada V4.
Ownership: Warranty and Maintenance
The 890 cc motor was built for low operating expenses and stress-free ownership:
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Factory Warranty: 4 years, unlimited mileage.
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Minor Service Interval: 15,000 km (9,000 miles) / 24 months.
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Desmo Valve Service: 30,000 km (18,600 miles).
These maintenance windows stay highly competitive, saving owners real money over years of hard riding.
