Having had more than a little envy of Ducatis style the culture, and desmo valves for quite a while the things about ownership that put me off were the question mark over reliability, especially several stories I read about 2010 - 2012 Multistrada motors lunching themselves. Not only that but stories of coolant problems, fuel sender problems and the other elephant in the room which is servicing costs. All this meant that I daren't risk what limited hard earned I had on a the cost of a Multistrada. Any road up 6 months ago I decided that not to would be a massive regret and so I took the plunge, hoping for the best and being accepting should it be the worst. I went for a 2014 from a non Ducati dealer (KTM actually ) with 7000 miles on it, this kept costs down. I kept my Jap in line 4 as my safety net and guaranteed reliability. It's now done 13500 miles and taken me on short tours of Scotland, England and the big one which is World Ducati Week. All with perfect reliability, the Italian electrics were faultles even thru a thunder storm from hell. Riding it is fantastic, I love it. It's a beautiful bike and i can see that the engineers play second fiddle to the designers. What this means is that working on it is a complete bitch, even adjusting the chain, so don't get me started on cleaning the hub, changing the oil and filter. So I can now see why Ducati charge north of a grand to service the buggers. I know its early for a valve and belt service but i like to do my servicing in the winter and I'm hoping to pile the miles on in summer so I've done it now. Here's a big nod to Ducati John who will happily talk with you to discuss how to reduce costs as all I wanted him to do was the valves, belts, plugs and air filter, which he was happy with and suggested if I take off all panels and tank that will cut down on costs. So I've bought at a good price and found a way to keep servicing in touch with the real world and I love the bike (surprised and delighted with reliabilty). I'm delighted I took the plunge and I for good measure I really enjoy the lively banter of this forum. Conclusion, I've no regrets I'm seriously happy. TB
Good on you! I’ve just started to pull my bike apart ready to take it round to Ducati John beginning of the new year. It’s due it’s 15/16,000 mile service but like you, I just want him to do the belts and valves as everything else inc. suspension, brakes, clutch... have been overhauled recently. Thing is, I want him to sprinkle his magic dust over it when done by setting it up properly. Need to talk to him to find out the best way of doing it.
Just the TPS, co and balancing really, just enough to have it running as sweet as possible. TBH, there seams to be nothing wrong with it, a bit rough round 5K rpm which can be normal anyway but i’d feel happier with him and his experience saying, there’s nowt wrong with it.
Great to hear you took the plunge and are loving it! The feel good factor of owning one of these machines can’t be underestimated
I had a Buell for 17 years and then bought a Triumph Explorer. Bar room wisdom would have you believe that the Buell would have been unreliable and the Triumph a safe bet. The Buell was bullet proof and the Triumph a disaster. I sold it and bought my Diavel and I am a happy bunny again. Sod the servicing costs there is more to biking than simple economics.
Welcome to the Web Site for Ducati John. My real name is John Cellier and my workshop is based at Rothwell which is just south of Leeds, West Yorkshire. He has always been there. Known him for many years. Not had any work done by him but know he has a good reputation.
