Generally speaking, motorcyclists are happy when an update to their favourite machine does two things: Gains power, and loses weight. Ducati Multistrada V2 fans should be very happy in 2025, as that’s exactly what this bike does in its latest update.
The new Ducati Multistrada V2 has the same 890 engine that Ducati already used in the updated Panigale V2 and Streetfighter V2, which debuted in early November. That means it packs at about 114 hp, just a slight increase over the previous Multistrada V-twin, and it also means a switch from Ducati’s trademark Desmo top end to a conventional spring-valve setup (with variable valve timing to boot). This, in turn, means lower maintenance costs. The new engine also shaves of a lot of weight off the 937cc DesertX motor, which the Multistrada V2 used previously.
Of course the new bike has a comprehensive electronics package with traction control, multiple engine modes, wheelie control, a quickshifter and all that jazz.
The chassis follows the same pattern as the other updated V2 models we saw earlier, with a main section of aluminum, a steel subframe and a cast aluminum dual-sided swingarm. Heresy to many Ducati owners, just like the spring-actuated valves, but this is a modern bike for the 21st century, and traditions must go in favour of progress.
And those concessions to modernity bring with them some more weight loss. Thanks to the updated design, the new Ducati Multistrada V2 weighs only 199 kilos (dry weight) in base trim, with Marzocchi fork and Sachs shock—that’s about 18 kg lighter than the 2024 model. The semi-autonomous Ducati Skyhook Suspension system on the upscale Multistrada V2 S model adds a few kg, but even that bike is significantly lighter than the previous Multistrada V2 model.
Wheels are still cast 19-17 rims, with Pirelli Scorpion Trail tires, since this is a streetbike primarily.
As every press release ever does, Ducati’s PR makes much ballyhoo about how the bike is designed to be more comfortable (lower fairing panels that direct hot engine air from rider, adjustable windshield, aerodynamically-designed bodywork, whatever that means…). Regardless of how you feel about such verbiage, the bike does look good and has a proper Multistrada profile.
MSRP for the new Multi is $18,795 for the base model. The U.S. market will get the V2 S model as well, but at this point, it is not listed on Canada’s Ducati website. See more here.
