2012 Ducati Multistrada Review

Intro

The launch of the 2012 range of the Ducati Multistrada bikes sees the bikes enter its third year with the addition of the new Pikes Peak Special Edition. The Multistrada bikes are the top-selling bikes offered by the bike manufacturer, and move into their third year with very minor tweaks. The goal of Ducati when designing the Multistrada was to create a genuine multi-tasking motorcycle combined with every day practicality.

According to Ducati, the models that make up the Multistrada range of bikes are all four bikes in one. No matter which version of the Ducati Multistrada is purchased, the rider can expect a combination of a sport bike, long distance touring bike, urban bike, and an enduro bike. Switching between the four different types of bike is done through a single click. Depending on which bike setup is chosen, adjustments are made in the delivery of power and torque, as well as to the suspension and traction control, so the 2012 Ducati Multistrada settings suit the rider and the environment.

The engine found on the 2012 Ducati Multistrada provides 150 horsepower at 9250 rpm and 87.5 lb-ft of torque at 7500 rpm. Coupled with a class-leading weight of 423 lbs and advanced rider and passenger ergonomics, the family of bikes attracts a significantly wider range of riders when compared to single purpose bikes. The engine provides plenty of power for carrying riders, passengers, and cargo, while the ride-by-wire and electronic suspension make it easy to handle.

The Touring edition of the 2012 Ducati Multistrada adds further convenience and comfort features. Heated grips, a center stand, and sidebags with a capacity of 57 liters make long journeys that much more enjoyable. The Pikes Peak Special Edition is the flagship bike for the 2012 Ducati Multistrada range. It was designed to commemorate the win by Greg Tracy in the 2010 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, and features Ducati Corse-style paintwork, passenger foot pegs, and an engine cover in an anodized black finish, and red pinstriping on the wheels.

New For 2012

  • A new color scheme is available for the 2012 Ducati Multistrada 1200 S Touring model, which is called race titanium matte.
  • The seat of the 2012 Ducati Multistrada has been upgraded and lengthened to improve comfort of the rider.
  • A new special edition of the Ducati Multistrada, the Pikes Peak special edition, is launched for the 2012 model year.

2012 Ducati Multistrada Specs

  • Model: 1200, 1200 S Touring, 1200 S Pikes Peak
  • Engine Type: 1198cc, L-Twin cylinder, four valve per cylinder, Desmodromic, liquid cooled
  • Bore and Stroke: 106 x 67.9 mm
  • Compression ratio: 11.5:1
  • Valve Train: N/A
  • Induction: N/A
  • Ignition: N/A
  • Transmission: Six-speed
  • Final Drive: Chain 5.30 inches; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 40
  • Fuel Capacity: 5.3 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy:
  • Brakes (Front): Dual 320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo callipers, four-piston, two-pad; Dual 320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo callipers, four-piston, two-pad. ABS as standard equipment
  • Brakes (Rear): 245 mm disc, two-piston caliper
  • Suspension (Front): Marzocchi 50 mm fully adjustable usd forks; Öhlins 48 mm fully adjustable usd forks, electronic compression and rebound adjustment
  • Suspension (Rear): Progressive linkage with fully adjustable Sachs monoshock. Aluminium single-sided swingarm; Progressive linkage with fully adjustable Ohlins electronic monoshock. Aluminium single-sided swingarm
  • Wheelbase: 60.2 inches
  • Rake: 25 degrees
  • Trail: N/A
  • Seat Height: 33.5 inches
  • Curb Weight: 423 lbs
  • Tires (Front): Pirelli Scorpion Trail 120/70 17
  • Tires (Rear): Pirelli Scorpion Trail 190/55 17

Accessories

  • When parked outside, a waterproof canvas that has been designed to provide the maximum protection from both UV and rain can stop the elements from reaching the 2012 Ducati Multistrada.
  • Adhesive tank protectors made from transparent material, or with a carbon fiber core, can be placed on the top and sides of the tank to not only protect it from scratches, but to provide additional grip and stability to the rider's legs.
  • A lower seat can replace the seat of the 2012 Ducati Multristrada Touring S to give a seat height that is 25 mm lower, making the bike more accessible to all riders.
  • An aluminum rear luggage rack and 48-liter rear top case in a variety of colors increase the load carrying surface of the 2012 Ducati Multistrada and is the perfect addition for those riders seeking adventure.
  • To improve the comfort of a passenger, replace the standard seat with one with extra-thick high-density foam that absorbs bumps and vibrations that much better.

Key Competitors For The 2012 Ducati Multistrada

  • 2012 Honda VFR 1200F
  • 2012 KTM 990 SMT
  • 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000
  • 2012 Aprilia Dorsoduro 1200