2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Touring First Ride Review

2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Touring First Ride Review 2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Touring First Ride Review A Refined Yet Robust Italian Adventure Machine The Ducati Multistrada 1260 S has long been a staple in the adventure touring segment offering a unique blend of sporty performance and longdistance comfort For 2018 Ducati gave their flagship adventure bike a significant overhaul and we were fortunate enough to get our hands on the new Multistrada 1260 S Touring for a first ride review Under the Skin A Refined Powerhouse The heart of the 2018 Multistrada 1260 S remains a liquidcooled 1262cc Testastretta DVT Desmodromic Variable Timing engine but its been significantly revised Ducati claims a 10 increase in power and torque throughout the rev range resulting in a smoother more linear power delivery The powerplant now produces a peak of 158 horsepower at 9500 rpm and 95 lbft of torque at 7500 rpm numbers that belie the bikes smooth almost effortless acceleration The new engine feels noticeably more responsive at lower revs making it ideal for navigating city traffic or winding through tight mountain passes The DVT system continues to seamlessly adjust valve timing for optimal power delivery and efficiency delivering an impressive balance between smooth acceleration and gutwrenching torque A New Chassis Built for Comfort and Control The Multistrada 1260 S Touring rides on a new aluminum monocoque frame that is claimed to be more rigid providing improved handling and a more stable platform The swingarm has also been redesigned for greater rigidity resulting in a more planted feel even under hard braking The most notable addition to the 2018 model is the new fully adjustable hlins suspension The electronically adjustable front and rear suspension features three preset modes Comfort Touring and Sport Each mode adjusts the damping characteristics to match the riding situation offering a wide range of settings to cater to diverse rider preferences and road conditions 2 The 1260 S Touring also boasts a new set of wheels The 19inch front wheel coupled with the 17inch rear wheel delivers a reassuringly stable ride inspiring confidence both on the open road and navigating tight corners Electronic Rider Aids A Symphony of Safety and Performance Ducati has equipped the Multistrada 1260 S Touring with a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids all managed by the userfriendly Ducati Multimedia System DMS interface The most notable of these aids is the Ducati Safety Pack DSP which includes Bosch Cornering ABS This system adjusts braking force to the lean angle ensuring maximum control and safety in corners Ducati Wheelie Control DWC The DWC system intervenes to prevent wheelies offering a greater sense of control and confidence especially during hard acceleration Ducati Traction Control DTC DTC adjusts traction control intervention based on lean angle and riding conditions providing optimal grip and stability even in slippery conditions The Multistrada 1260 S Touring also boasts other sophisticated electronic rider aids Ducati Skyhook Suspension DSS This system automatically adjusts suspension settings in realtime based on road conditions and riding style offering a remarkably comfortable ride Ducati Quick Shift DQS The DQS system allows for clutchless upshifts and downshifts providing an even more engaging and intuitive riding experience Cruise Control The standard cruise control system allows riders to maintain a consistent speed effortlessly reducing fatigue during long journeys TouringFocused Comfort Ready for the Long Haul The Multistrada 1260 S Touring is clearly built with longdistance touring in mind The rider triangle is ergonomically designed providing a comfortable and upright riding position ideal for longdistance journeys The seat is generously padded offering ample support for both rider and passenger The Touring package further enhances the bikes comfort with its standard equipment including Panniers Large lockable panniers provide ample storage space for luggage ideal for extended tours Handguards Handguards protect the riders hands from wind and debris increasing comfort during long rides Heated grips Heated grips offer welcome warmth during colder rides making the bike 3 comfortable even in harsh conditions On the Road A Dynamic and Comfortable Ride Our first ride experience with the Multistrada 1260 S Touring was nothing short of remarkable The bike feels remarkably agile and responsive thanks to the refined chassis and the revised engine The engine delivers smooth predictable power throughout the rev range making it effortless to manage even for less experienced riders The adjustable hlins suspension in conjunction with the Ducati Skyhook Suspension system truly shines The three preset modes offer a wide range of adjustment allowing riders to tailor the bikes feel to suit their preferences and riding conditions The Comfort mode provides a supple and forgiving ride ideal for navigating rough roads and longdistance cruising In Touring mode the suspension is slightly firmer offering improved handling and stability at higher speeds Finally Sport mode provides the most aggressive handling with a noticeable increase in stiffness for those who want a more engaging and sporty ride The electronic rider aids on the Multistrada 1260 S Touring are truly impressive The Bosch Cornering ABS system provides a reassuring sense of security especially during aggressive riding The Ducati Wheelie Control DWC system is surprisingly subtle only intervening when necessary and the Ducati Traction Control DTC system does a fantastic job of keeping the rear tire planted even in slippery conditions Conclusion A Refined and Versatile Adventure Machine The 2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Touring is a significant improvement over its predecessor The refined engine the new chassis and the comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids make this bike a true allrounder capable of tackling everything from daily commutes to epic adventures The Touring package adds a level of comfort and practicality that makes the bike ideal for longdistance journeys while the inherent sporty performance ensures that the Multistrada 1260 S Touring is a joy to ride on any road Whether youre looking for a comfortable and capable adventure touring bike or a sporty and versatile machine for everyday use the 2018 Ducati Multistrada 1260 S Touring is a worthy contender offering a truly unique blend of performance comfort and technology 4