The flagship adventure touring motorcycle from Ducati, the Multistrada V4 S, has been updated for 2022 in overseas markets, focusing on enhancements in color schemes, electronic suspension, and accessory options. Although this generation of the V4 “Multistrada” was first released in 2020, it was not introduced alongside the street and sport models. It was only recently that official announcements began to surface domestically, raising the question of whether the 2022 model will be launched simultaneously.
The 2022 Multistrada V4 S features a new Glacier White color scheme, accented with a red subframe and wheel decals, giving it a more stylish and modern appearance. The main upgrade in configuration is the electronic suspension system, which now includes a feature similar to Harley’s “Pan America” that automatically adjusts the preload of the shock absorbers. This allows the seat height to be lowered automatically during slow-speed maneuvers in the city, making it safer and easier for riders and passengers to reach the ground. For a large adventure touring bike with a seat height exceeding 820mm, this is indeed a valuable feature. Additionally, the operating system of the TFT connected instrument panel has been upgraded to support smartphone mirroring.
If the automatic seat height lowering system is still difficult to manage, a lowering kit is available, which includes shorter travel front and rear shocks and a side stand (which can lower the height by 20mm), along with low seat accessories (which can lower the height by 30mm). This allows for a total seat height reduction of 50mm (the factory setting is adjustable from 840mm to 860mm, and with the lowering kit installed, it becomes adjustable from 790mm to 810mm). For taller riders, a high seat version is available, allowing for a maximum seat height of 875mm, along with optional wire-spoke wheels and off-road tires, as well as aluminum panniers developed in collaboration with Givi, transforming it into a hardcore rally bike.
The power comes from a 1158cc, V4, water-cooled, 16-valve engine, producing a maximum power of 170 horsepower and a maximum torque of 125 Nm. Additionally, the aluminum rear double swingarm and radar adaptive cruise control system distinguish it from the previous generation that used the V2 engine. The 2022 Multistrada V4 S is priced at €21,790 in Europe, approximately 154,000 RMB. In contrast, the prices for the V4 street and sport models start at 205,000 and 237,000 RMB respectively (the S version is more expensive). What do you think the upcoming rally version will be priced at?