EICMA 2015 FIRST LOOK: 2016 Ducati Multistrada 1200 Enduro & Pikes Peak

Since the Multistrada's introduction more than a decade ago, there has been an obvious hole in Ducati's model line for a proper adventure-touring variant with greater off-road capabilities. That hole has now been filled with a new model, fittingly named the Multistrada 1200 Enduro.

The Multistrada line now includes two versions that apparently share little: the tarmac-devouring Pikes Peak, named for the legendary Colorado hill climb, and the off-road-ready Enduro, which Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali said is fully equipped to "go across continents." Both versions are powered by the 1198cc Testastretta 11° V-twin equipped with DVT variable valve timing for 160 bhp and 100 lb.-ft. of torque.

The Pikes Peak tips the scales at 470 lbs. dry, the Enduro at 496 lbs. Suspension on the Pikes Peak is by fully-adjustable Ohlins, while the Enduro gets the high-tech Sachs Skyhook semi-active system. The Pikes Peak uses the traditional Multistrada single-side swingarm, while the Enduro gets a new—and stronger—double-sided swingarm. Suspension travel goes up from 6.7 to 7.9 inches, and wheelbase from 60 to 61.2 inches.

The Pikes Peak's 17-inch cast wheels are replaced on the Enduro by wire-spoke aluminum rims shod with knobbier tires, a 19-incher up front. The front-end geometry remains almost unchanged, rake going from 24 degrees on the Pikes Peak to 25 degrees on the Enduro with almost identical trail of 109/110mm. On the road-going version the seat height is adjustable from 32.5 to 33.2 inches, while it is non-adjustable on the Enduro, set at 34.2 inches. Optional seats will be available.

Both versions feature first-class electronics suites, but the Enduro also includes a hill-hold program that keeps the bike from rolling backward on a grade for easier uphill starts. In fully dressed form, the Enduro features solid-looking aluminum panniers of large capacity.