Ducati Multistrada 1260
The Ducati Multistrada 1260 is an exceptional sport-touring motorcycle that offers a blend of high-performance, comfort, and advanced technology. With its powerful Testastretta 1260cc engine, customizable riding modes, Öhlins suspension, and advanced safety features, the Multistrada 1260 is designed to deliver an exhilarating yet comfortable ride for both spirited riders and those looking for long-distance touring comfort.
Whether you’re tackling twisty mountain roads, cruising highways, or exploring light off-road trails, the Multistrada 1260’s combination of power, versatility, and cutting-edge technology makes it one of the top choices for adventure and sport-touring enthusiasts.
Key Features
Engine and Performance:
Engine Type: The Multistrada 1260 is powered by Ducati’s signature 1,262cc, L-twin Testastretta DVT engine (Desmodromic Variable Timing). It’s a liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC engine, which offers both high power and smooth torque delivery.
Power Output: The engine produces 158 horsepower (118 kW) at 9,500 RPM and 95 lb-ft (128 Nm) of torque at 7,500 RPM, offering exceptional performance for both long-distance touring and aggressive sport riding. The torque curve is tuned for mid-range performance, making it ideal for passing, cornering, and sustained high-speed riding.
Transmission: The Multistrada 1260 uses a 6-speed gearbox with a chain final drive. The Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) system allows for clutchless upshifts and downshifts, which is a great feature for seamless, fast gear changes.
Fuel Economy: The Multistrada 1260 has a fuel tank capacity of 5.3 gallons (20 liters), and it achieves a fuel efficiency of around 40-45 mpg (5.8-6.3 L/100 km). This gives it a decent range for long-distance touring.
Top Speed: The top speed of the Multistrada 1260 is around 155 mph (250 km/h), but its strength lies more in its overall performance, handling, and touring comfort.
Chassis and Suspension
Frame: The Multistrada 1260 features a steel trellis frame, which provides a strong yet lightweight structure. This helps with handling and rigidity, especially when tackling sharp turns or off-road trails.
Front Suspension: The bike is equipped with Öhlins electronically adjustable suspension (on higher-end models), with 50mm inverted forks. This allows for quick adjustments to preload, compression, and rebound damping to suit the rider’s weight, riding conditions, and load.
Rear Suspension: The rear features an Öhlins monoshock, which is also electronically adjustable. The rear shock is designed to handle both aggressive riding and long-distance comfort, with adjustments for preload and damping.
Brakes: The Multistrada 1260 comes with high-performance dual 320mm front discs with M50 Brembo calipers and a 265mm rear disc with a Brembo caliper. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, with a cornering ABS system available for better safety during hard braking in turns.
Comfort and Features:
Ergonomics: The Multistrada 1260 offers a comfortable, upright riding position, which is ideal for long distances and a wide range of riders. The adjustable seat height (between 32.7 inches to 33.9 inches) allows for customization to fit various rider heights, and the handlebars are designed for comfort in both city riding and on long highways.
Wind Protection: The bike comes with an adjustable windscreen, which can be raised or lowered to provide better wind protection for touring. This helps reduce rider fatigue on long stretches of road, especially at higher speeds.
Seat and Comfort: The seat is designed for long-range comfort, offering cushioning for both the rider and the passenger. The Multistrada 1260 also offers an optional heated seat feature for added comfort in colder climates.
Luggage Options: The Multistrada 1260 can be equipped with hard panniers and a top case for storage. These luggage options provide ample space for long tours, making it an excellent option for adventure riders.
Technology & Instruments:
Instrument Cluster: The Multistrada 1260 features a full color TFT display with a large, easy-to-read screen that provides a wealth of information, including:
- Speedometer
- Tachometer
- Gear position indicator
- Trip computer
- Fuel gauge
- Riding modes (more on this below)
- Navigation options (on certain models)
Riding Modes: One of the standout features of the Multistrada 1260 is its riding modes. The bike has four customizable modes:
- Sport – Full power and aggressive throttle response, for spirited riding.
- Touring – Balanced power delivery and throttle response for touring comfort.
- Urban – Lower power and smoother throttle response for city riding.
- Enduro – Optimized for off-road riding with softer power delivery and settings for rough terrain.
These modes adjust engine power, suspension settings, and traction control to tailor the riding experience to specific conditions.
Ducati Safety Pack (DSP): The Multistrada 1260 comes with several advanced safety features, including Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), Ducati Cornering ABS, and Electronic Suspension (on higher trims). These systems work together to enhance safety by maintaining traction and stability during various riding conditions.
Cruise Control: The bike comes with cruise control, which is an excellent feature for long-distance touring, helping riders maintain a consistent speed without having to grip the throttle.
LED Lighting: The Multistrada 1260 features full LED lighting, including LED headlights, taillights, and turn signals. The headlights feature Ducati’s signature Daytime Running Lights (DRL), which improve visibility and safety.
Design & Styling:
Appearance: The Ducati Multistrada 1260 has an aggressive, sporty appearance, combining rugged adventure styling with sleek, modern design elements. Its sharp, angular bodywork, wide fuel tank, and tall windscreen give it a commanding presence on the road. The bike’s aesthetics reflect its versatility for both city riding and off-road adventures.
Color Options: The Multistrada 1260 is available in several color schemes, including the iconic Ducati Red and Star White Silk with red accents. Special-edition models, like the Multistrada 1260 S or Pikes Peak edition, may come with unique graphics or additional color options.
Adjustable Features: The seat, handlebars, and suspension settings can all be adjusted to ensure a customized fit and ride. These features enhance the bike’s comfort and versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of riders.
Dimensions and Weight:
Length: Approximately 87.8 inches (2,230 mm).
Width: About 38.2 inches (970 mm).
Height: Around 56.7 inches (1,440 mm).
Wheelbase: 61.4 inches (1,560 mm).
Curb Weight: The Multistrada 1260 weighs approximately 503 lbs (228 kg), which is light for a bike of this size, making it more agile for both sport riding and touring.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 5.3 gallons (20 liters), offering good range for long-distance travel.
Pricing:
Ducati Multistrada 1260 Standard:
- Price: Approximately ₹16.50 lakh (ex-showroom).
Ducati Multistrada 1260 S:
- Price: Around ₹19 lakh (ex-showroom).
Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro:
- Price: ₹19.99 lakh (red) and ₹20.23 lakh (sand shade) (ex-showroom).
Ducati Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak:
- Price: ₹21.42 lakh (ex-showroom).
Conclusion:
The Ducati Multistrada 1260 is an exceptional sport-touring motorcycle that offers a blend of high-performance, comfort, and advanced technology. With its powerful Testastretta 1260cc engine, customizable riding modes, Öhlins suspension, and advanced safety features, the Multistrada 1260 is designed to deliver an exhilarating yet comfortable ride for both spirited riders and those looking for long-distance touring comfort.
Whether you’re tackling twisty mountain roads, cruising highways, or exploring light off-road trails, the Multistrada 1260’s combination of power, versatility, and cutting-edge technology makes it one of the top choices for adventure and sport-touring enthusiasts.