2014 EICMA: 2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200 Preview

Tom Roderick
by Tom Roderick

DVT engine, cornering ABS and airbag connectivity

Introducing the 2015 Ducati Multistrada 1200; a redesigned Multi featuring an engine with Desmodromic Variable Timing (DVT), cornering ABS, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), and a fresh yet familiar look. Everything on the new Multistrada 1200 has been designed for practicality and effectiveness.

The Testastretta DVT engine independently varies the timing of the camshaft that controls the intake valves and the camshaft that controls the exhaust valves. At high rpm, the system increases the amount of valve overlap, maximizing performance. At lower engine speeds, the overlap is minimized for smoother, more fluid power delivery. Ducati says DVT optimizes engine performance throughout the power range in all riding conditions.

The DVT engine uses two spark plugs per cylinder and each spark plug has independent ignitions. There’s also an anti-knock sensor for lower-octane fuels, high altitudes, etc.

Ducati claims the new Testastretta DVT puts out 160 hp at 9500 rpm and 100 lb-ft of torque at 7500 rpm. That’s up 10 claimed hp (150 @ 9250 rpm) and eight claimed lb-ft (91.8 @ 7500 rpm) compared to the outgoing Multi engine. “Yet the DVT system, despite the increase in power, also decreases fuel consumption, which drops by an average of 8% over the riding cycle,” claims the press release.

Standard model Multistradas have a LCD screen while the S and D|air models feature an instrument panel with a 5-inch full color TFT screen.

The 2015 Multistrada also boasts a new Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) which dynamically measures roll, yaw and pitch angles as well as the rate of their change. The IMU enables the Bosch-Brembo ABS 9.1ME ABS system to incorporate a cornering aspect capable of controlling braking when traction is limited and lean angle severe. The IMU detects and corrects any front wheel lift to help provide maximum acceleration via the Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC). The IMU also controls Ducati Cornering Lights (DCL) which activates in curves to give help illuminate the road surface.

Ducati has also introduced a D|air version of the new Multistrada 1200 S providing an on-vehicle system that wirelessly connects to airbag-equipped Ducati Apparel D|air clothing by Dainese. On-board sensors and electronics constantly monitor the dynamic status of the vehicle and can open both rider and passenger in-jacket airbags in just 45 milliseconds.

Distinctive features include the compact full LED headlamp and the rear tail light. The new windshield height adjustment system is more fluid and can be operated with only one hand.

All 2015 models come equipped with electronic cruise control. On the S version a Bluetooth module is included as standard: this activates the Ducati Multimedia System and can connect the bike to a smartphone for controlling basic functions such as receiving incoming calls, notification of text messages, or playing music via the handlebar controls and on-dash info.

The Multi’s rider’s seat is narrower at the front, as well as 20 mm longer and offers 20 mm of height-adjustment. The passenger seat is lower and the passenger grab handles are more ergonomic.

Multistrada 1200: Ducati Red with black wheels rims

  • New Ducati Testastretta DVT engine
  • IMU: Inertial Measurement Unit
  • Bosch-Brembo ABS 9.1ME Cornering braking system o Electronic cruise control
  • Riding Modes
  • Ride-by-Wire Power Modes (PM)
  • Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC)
  • Ducati Traction Control (DTC)
  • Height-adjustable seat
  • LCD instrument panel

Multistrada 1200 S/Multistrada 1200 S D|air: Ducati Red with black wheels rims (S and 1200 S D|air), Iceberg White with black wheels rims (S only)

2015 pricing was not available at the time of publication

Follow the rest of our 2014 EICMA Show coverage for more information on new 2015 motorcycle announcements.

Tom Roderick
Tom Roderick

A former Motorcycle.com staffer who has gone on to greener pastures, Tom Roderick still can't get the motorcycle bug out of his system. And honestly, we still miss having him around. Tom is now a regular freelance writer and tester for Motorcycle.com when his schedule allows, and his experience, riding ability, writing talent, and quick wit are still a joy to have – even if we don't get to experience it as much as we used to.

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  • Alighieri Alighieri on Nov 04, 2014

    I was in love until I got here ... "Ducati Multimedia System can connect the bike to a smartphone? for controlling basic functions such as receiving incoming calls ?! , notification of text messages"?!!!!, I ride to get away from that nonsense - I think Ducati just jumped the shark ... is that the Audi influence? I think will stick with my 2012 Touring (before Audi) .... 17,000 smartphone free kms, just enough gadgetry to keep me safe on all kinds of roads and many trails ... and a great big smile every time I get off it -

  • Greg Zrust Greg Zrust on Nov 07, 2014

    Ducati, where is the Pikes Peak red, white and black paint scheme with gobs of carbon fiber goodies dripping off it??

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