2025 Ducati Multistrada V4 and V4 S First Look

Ducati’s 1,158cc V-4 Granturismo-powered Multistrada V4 came like a bolt from the blue in 2021. Ducati keeps investing in the evolution of the model, announcing the 2025 Multistrada V4 and V4 S. The 2025 edition of the Multistrada V4/V4 S marks a further refinement of the models’ comfort and riding safety thanks to a renewed electronics suite that takes advantage of experience and technology developed in MotoGP.

The mechanical architecture of the project remains unchanged with a lightweight sheet-aluminum monocoque from which the 1,158cc V-4 Granturismo engine hangs. The twin-arm rear swingarm has had its pivot repositioned 1mm higher to improve the anti-squat capacity of the rear suspension for a more neutral response of the steering under any riding condition or rider load.

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The claimed 170 hp V-4 Granturismo engine is now Euro 5+ emissions compliant, and its improved Eco model is able to actuate extended rear-cylinder deactivation to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The engine is the non-desmo edition of the Ducati V-4, featuring an 83mm bore and 53.3mm stroke for an actual displacement of 1,158cc; nothing has changed there. Compression ratio is 14:1. Worth noting, although not new information, the spring valve V-4 doesn’t need a valve clearance inspection until 37,000 miles and oil changes are set at every 9,000 miles.

To improve passenger comfort, the top case and side panniers have been moved backward in order to offer more legroom. Standard seat height is adjustable between 33.1 and 33.9 inches. Ducati also offers a selection of optional seats with seat heights ranging from a low 31.9 inches to a towering 35 inches.

To make the Multistrada V4 easier to maneuver at very low speed, this 2025 edition includes an electronically controlled Automatic Lowering Device that is automatically actuated at speeds lower than 6 mph and that resets to the standard suspension height when accelerating back to 30 mph.

The Multistrada V4 suspension consists of a 50mm fork and monoshock rear unit—both fully adjustable. The up-spec Multistrada V4 S goes a couple of notches higher with electronically semi-active 50mm Marzocchi fork with Ducati Skyhook Suspension Evolution featuring a new fork position sensor. Equally, the rear monoshock is fully electronically managed with Ducati’s Skyhook program and now offers a preload range increased from 12mm to 20mm. The rider has a button at their command to modulate the damping settings while riding.

The braking systems of the V4 and the V4 S edition also differ. The Multistrada V4 adopts twin 320mm front discs actuated by Brembo four-piston calipers, and a single 280mm rear rotor actuated by a Brembo two-piston floating caliper. Meanwhile the Multistrada V4 S features larger 330mm rotors squeezed by Brembo Stylema four-piston calipers upfront. At the rear are the same two-piston floating caliper and 280mm disc.

Both braking systems are digitally modulated by a Brembo-Bosch 10.3ME Cornering ABS. Multistrada V4 puts safety at the top, and V4 S was the first in the class to offer a front and rear radar detection system that operated in combination with the Adaptive Cruise Control system to make highway riding safer and more comfortable at the same time.

The new ECU offers a selection of five riding modes: Sport mode comes with full 170 hp power and full torque at disposal at the rider’s action. Touring has 170 hp still at disposal, but with smoother response and a higher ABS function. In Wet mode power is limited to 115 hp with very mild throttle response and all electronic safety systems are set at the most sensitive levels to ensure maximum stability. Then there’s Urban mode where the power is still down at 115 hp with a mild throttle response and Ducati Traction Control and Ducati Wheelie Control are set to a very high level. Enduro mode’s electronic systems, including the suspension units, are set to ensure maximum control of the bike on the pavement with traction and wheelie control functions at a lower level of intervention while the cornering function of ABS along with the rear wheel control are shut off.

Ducati Vehicle Observer is an algorithm that simulates the ability to physically evaluate the forces that the bike applies to the road under the various riding conditions and activates the traction, wheelie, and ABS control system to prevent loss of control. This Ducati Vehicle Observer comes from the company’s MotoGP experience and is also found on the 2025 Panigale V4.

The Multistrada electronics suite also includes Engine Brake Control and the Quick Shift system, both up and down. In case the braking action exceeds average limits, Brake Light Evo activates the hazard lights to signal a dangerous situation. To restart from a standstill on a hill, Multistrada activates its Vehicle Hold Control to prevent rollback.

Ducati has equipped the Multistrada V4 with a 6.5-inch TFT dashboard featuring a circular rev counter and all the fundamental information about the ride, including the setting of the control systems and the navigation systems. The dashboard acts as a central control system for the Multi, including infotainment functions while connected to the rider’s smartphone resting in a new compartment complete with charging socket.

Ducati’s Multistrada has been one of the big hits out of Borgo Panigale, and it’s clear that the brand will continue to evolve the adventure-touring rig. Pricing starts at $19,995 for the V4 and $28,305 for the V4 S.