2025 Ducati Multistrada V2S First Ride Review
A masterclass in sport touring that balances punchy V-twin torque with elite electronic suspension. It’s a premium, do-it-all machine built for riders who want top-tier comfort without sacrificing agility.
- Skyhook Suspension: One of the best electronic setups on the market — plush comfort, planted performance.
- Perfect Ergonomics: Near-perfect seat + relaxed upright position for all-day miles.
- Intuitive Tech: Feature-rich but clear menus; infotainment is top tier for the segment.
- High Entry Price: $18K+ keeps it out of “easy fun” territory for many riders.
- Cruise Control Logic: Can’t cancel by rolling the throttle forward (small but annoying).
- Low Rev Ceiling: Hits hard early, but only revs to ~10,000 RPM so it falls off vs sportier rivals.
Performance Highlights
The Multistrada V2S is defined by its versatile 890cc V2 engine. It delivers fun, usable torque instantly, making it a blast to flick through city traffic or fire out of corners. While it isn’t a high-revving screamer, the delivery is snappy and carries cleanly onto the highway.
Even in ugly conditions — sideways rain and heavy winds — the bike stays remarkably stable and planted, which says a lot about the chassis and Skyhook suspension tuning.
Rider Experience & Tech
Comfort is the core of this bike. At 5'10", the reach to the ground is a solid tiptoe, but once moving the bike feels light and easy to manage. The adjustable windscreen is a standout: one-finger adjustment that cleans up helmet buffeting immediately.
Vibration through the pegs and bars is impressively minimal for a V-twin — even at highway speeds. The “S” model adds Skyhook electronic suspension and Brembo master cylinders, giving you elite feel and stopping power. Modes (Urban, Touring, Sport, Wet, Enduro) meaningfully change the bike’s personality. The dash may be a slight step down from flagship Ducati models, but it’s still a gold standard for clarity.
The Chase Score & Final Thoughts
With a Chase Score of 79/100, the 2025 Multistrada V2S is arguably one of the best motorcycles of the year. It handles city, twisties, and long-distance touring with equal confidence. The BMW F900 XR may feel slightly sportier, but the Ducati wins on refinement and suspension quality.
Who it’s for: serious sport-touring riders who want a “do-everything” bike with top-shelf components.
Who should skip: budget-minded riders or anyone chasing a lightweight, high-revving middleweight.