2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 First Look

Ducati updated its mid-sized adventure bike for 2022, reducing its weight, improving the ergonomics and updating the engine while renaming it from the Multistrada 950 to the Multistrada V2.

The new name reasserts its relationship to the Multistrada V4 as a difference in cylinder configuration rather than displacement, a pattern we’ve already seen Ducati adopt with its Panigale models and, eventually, the Streetfighter, which we expect to get a smaller displacement V-Twin version later this month.

Visually, the Multistrada V2 doesn't look much different from the 950. The main differences are new engine covers and a new seat. The Multistrada V2's ergonomics were a main focus for Ducati, resulting in a saddle that is narrower and more compact. Ducati says the new saddle shape is more comfortable and offers better freedom of movement. The V2 also receives new footpegs inherited from the Multistrada V4 that are 0.4 inches farther from the seat, providing a bit more leg room that taller riders should appreciate.

The standard seat is now 32.7 inches from the ground, a reduction of 0.4 inches, with accessory seats raising it to 33.5 inches or lowering it to 31.9 inches (a low suspension accessory can drop it further to 31.1 inches).

Ducati updated the 937cc Testastretta 11° V-Twin engine with new connecting rods, but it has the same performance figures as the previous model, claiming 113 hp at 9000 rpm and 71 lb-ft. at 7750 rpm (European models see a slight drop in torque to a claimed 69 lb-ft at 6750 rpm to meet Euro 5 standards). The Multistrada V2 also received a new eight-disc hydraulic clutch and a revised gearbox for more precise shifting, with the V2 S version getting an up and down quickshifter.

The engine updates along with new mirrors and cast wheels derived from the Multistrada V4 help contribute to an 11-pound weight savings, dropping the Multistrada V2's claimed curb weight to 489 pounds (496 pounds for the S model). Wire spoke wheels are available as an accessory, and Ducati says they are also lighter than the ones offered on the wire-spoked 950.

The suspension system is unchanged from the Multistrada 950, with the base version getting a fully-adjustable 48mm inverted fork and monoshock, and the S model receiving the electronic Ducati Skyhook Suspension EVO. The brakes are likewise unchanged, with dual radial-mount Brembo monoblock four-piston calipers and 320 mm discs up front and a two-piston caliper with 265 mm disc at the rear.

Both standard and S models receive cornering ABS, traction control, selectable ride modes and vehicle hold control for easier starts on inclines. The Multistrada V2 S adds cruise control, a full LED headlight with cornering lights, a 5″ TFT full color display and backlit handlebar controls.

For 2022, the Multistrada V2 comes in Ducati Red with black rims, while the V2 S gets an additional Street Grey color option with a black frame and GP Red rims. Both versions are available in the standard Essential trim while the V2 S is available in a Travel trim which adds side bags, heated grips and a center stand.

In the U.S., the 2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 is priced at $15,295. The Multistrada V2 S starts at $17,895. Expect to see them in dealerships in November.

Specifications

Ducati Multistrada V2

Ducati Multistrada V2 S

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How is the wind protection on Adventure style bikes? When I look at this Ducati, the V-Strom 1000, Versys 1000, etc., I find it hard to imagine that the wind noise and buffeting could be acceptable with such small screens. I rode a Tiger 800 once - with the owners 'adventure' helmet (helmet with dirt-bike style sun visor), and I thought my head was going to bend backwards. It sucked.

Protection, good, noise, not so good. With flips flaps, beaks and whatnot there is a ton to make noise. I recommend one more flippity flap, Get a MRA Vario Windscreen with the adjustable lip foil. Best thing I've found to date to quiet the noise. I had an extra large cal-sci barn door on my old multistrada, you could hide behind it but it was ugly and loud. The MRA is slightly smaller than stock but 90% quieter with the flap in the right spot. The stock screen would flex vibrate at high speed and shake my helmet, gone with the MRA. They are now my go to on any bike when replacing the screen.

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The helmet buffeting and noise behind my 2015 Vstrom windscreen was, without exaggeration, completely unbearable above 55mph. The very first thing I did when I got it home from the dealer was remove the windscreen and mounting mechanism. It was always my intention to reinstall the unit after buying an aftermarket windscreen, but I actually found that the headlight nacelle and instrument cluster was the perfect amount of wind protection. The air is completely off my chest, with my helmet, shoulders, and arms in the wind. I also found the change to be an aesthetic improvement, but ya know, it's a Vstrom so the bar is low.

I've had two of them, and at 6'2" I replaced the screen with a taller one on both (under $200). No buffeting with the taller screens sitting upright verses some to a lot with stock. Not quite the wind protection of a touring bike, but good enough to ride in conditions where I'd think twice about riding a naked.

Beaks suck on helmets too!

Interesting center stand- gets both wheels off the ground! (lead image)