The RS Difference: Superbike Power Inside a Multistrada

Forget ordinary trim packages; the Multistrada V4 RS is not a trim level. You get a mechanically distinct, numbered-edition machine forged directly around the heart of Ducati’s flagship superbikes. Ducati highlights how the RS packs “a Desmosedici Stradale engine like the supersport bikes, a dry clutch, and dedicated electronic calibration for unbeatable performance.” Stand back—this remains the only Multistrada blessed with the MotoGP-derived Desmosedici Stradale, standard equipment across Streetfighter and Panigale families.

Riders will notice an attitude lightyears away from the calm, long-distance V4 Granturismo fitted to the standard V4 or V4 S. This engine is smaller in displacement (1,103 cc vs. 1,158 cc) yet far spikier, higher-revving, and more aggressively tuned, pushing out 180 hp at 13,500 rpm under Euro 5+ standards. Drop into neutral and listen. The STM-EVO dry clutch—straight off factory track weapons—delivers precise, positive engagement alongside a distinctive rattle at idle that advertises its pure racing pedigree.

Key engine specifications (2023–2026):

Unlike its siblings, this model stands alone as the only Multistrada to feature a “Full Power” option, delivering 180 hp in all gears paired with a dedicated throttle response map. Acceleration snaps hard. Because the final drive ratio is shorter than the Pikes Peak, gears cycle rapidly to give the machine a more urgent, race-bike feel when feeding in power.

Chassis and Suspension: Engineered for the Corner

Ducati built this chassis developed around a 17-inch front wheel, ditching the touring-oriented 19-inch hoop found on the standard Multistrada V4 and V4 S. Its light aluminium monocoque frame sports a distinct specification compared to the V4 S or Rally, featuring a revised steering head angle, trail, and wheelbase close to the Pikes Peak edition.

Out back, a sleek single-sided aluminium swingarm—a legendary Ducati racing hallmark—clears room for a massive 190-section rear tyre while accentuating its superbike-inspired stance. Lightness matters here. The Marchesini forged aluminium wheels (17-inch front and rear) shave off 2.7 kg lighter mass than the stock V4 S setups, drastically cutting unsprung mass and gyroscopic effect so you get sharper turn-in and quicker direction changes through tight bends.

Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension comes pre-installed, offering event-based damping adjustment that actively adjusts to lean angles, road speed, and rider inputs. You get four suspension presets (Track, Dynamic, Touring, Low Grip) that riders can configure independently of the engine’s riding modes.

Braking is Panigale-grade: twin 330 mm front discs with Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers, Panigale-specification brake pads, and Bosch-Brembo cornering ABS. A 280 mm rear disc with a Brembo floating caliper completes the package.

Weight Reduction: Titanium, Carbon, and Lithium

Engineers shaved weight wherever possible, turning this into the lightest Multistrada in the range. Take the rear end: a custom titanium rear subframe drops 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) lighter than steel yet stays reinforced to accept a top box, giving you a full three-piece pannier arrangement without sacrificing long-haul practicality. Premium Carbon fibre wraps the beak, mudguard, handguards, and heat shields, complemented by a compact lithium-ion battery.

All in, you get a ready-to-ride wet weight (without fuel) of 225 kg (496 lb)—which is 3 kg lighter than the Pikes Peak (or 4.4 lb (2 kg) lighter depending on regional specs). Twist the grip, squeeze the levers, or pitch into a bend; the physical lightness shows up instantly in its agility, braking performance, and acceleration.

Electronics: The Full Suite, Plus DVO and Radar

Ducati crammed its most advanced electronics package into the cockpit, headlined by the Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO). Born in MotoGP, this software uses 70 sensors and inertial platform data to predict and calibrate traction, wheelie, and ABS interventions with pinpoint mathematical accuracy.

Model Years, Updates, and Colours (2023–2026)

The RS has a defined model history with a significant update for 2026.

Colours Available

The Multistrada V4 RS is offered in a single exclusive factory livery, with additional personalisation available through Ducati’s Factory Made programme.

• Standard livery: Iceberg White RS—a glossy white base with red inserts and MotoGP-inspired graphic elements, ensuring the RS acts as a magnet for attention everywhere. This livery is exclusive to the RS and is not available on any other Multistrada variant.

• Ducati Factory Made options: Buyers can choose from additional colour and livery options, including Performance and Ducati Corse liveries, with gloss and matt finishes and selected colours from the Lamborghini Ad Personam palette.

New vs. Used: Buying the Multistrada V4 RS

New (2026 examples): The 2026 RS is the current production model, benefiting from the latest DVO electronics, upgraded DQS 2.0, and new five-spoke forged wheels. New examples carry the full Ducati 4-year unlimited-mileage warranty and the numbered-edition plaque on the top yoke. US MSRP is $39,995, with UK pricing at £34,095 and European pricing at €38,490. The 2026 model is expected in dealer showrooms from March 2026.

Used (2024–2025 examples): Shopping pre-owned opens up attractive price breaks, even if the bike’s limited production and numbered-edition status keep available inventory relatively rare. For instance, a 2025 RS with only 950 miles was recently spotted at $34,995 (shaving $1,000 off its original $35,995 MSRP). Meanwhile, a 2024 RS turned up at $28,995 down from its original MSRP of $37,995, while typical used asking prices hover near $33,137. Overseas buyers will find European listings like a 2025 RS with 2,212 km for €31,000 alongside a 2024 RS with 13,954 km at €31,000. That makes a serious case on paper for anyone seeking a superbike-derived engine, Öhlins semi-active suspension, forged wheels, and the full radar safety suite.

Our condition grades for used Multistrada V4 RS:

Every used bike undergoes a pre-sale inspection, and known faults are disclosed before purchase.

Technical Specifications (Multistrada V4 RS, 2023–2026)