Gents, Ladies, Test rode the V4 Rally, and absolutely loved it. Currently on 1150GS from 2002. So I actually want to buy the Multi. Been looking online to gather some info, and the only thing I found out are: - whining issues from badly lubed chain - rear wheel bearing not lubed, and corroded Not much at all, so is there more known issues I've not came across? I also have a question about trickle charging. Got my GS on Optimate 4 CAN edition. It's been said here that these sockets on Ducati are shut down with ignition. Would my optimate be able to wake the port up for charging? Ducati also mentions in the manual that you need their charger, upon which I immediately thought it's just a money grab. So ideally, I'd like to continue using my optimate. The question is, can I? Thanks all for taking time to read and respond.
I tried connecting a BMW charger to the 12v socket on my V4, everything started flashing and clicking, wired a lead direct to battery and connected Oxford Oximiser charger no issues past 6 months.
The only issue that i would like to change is the fuel consumption but having read Ride mags test of the V4 rally this month, it seems the changes to the cylinder shut down have had no effect at all on the Rally compared to the V4S.
Yeah, I've heard about the fuel consumption, and it seem to vary from person to person, how much you enjoying the bike I guess. Not as good as latest GS, but the engine feels so much better, so with the large tank, eliminating the refuel needs every half hour, I'm willing to give that a pass. But thanks for bringing that up. I just didn't see it as an issue, more like a 'feature' people don't like.
I’d think that if you’re going to buy a new V4 Rally, any dealer worth their salt would surely chuck in an optimate, at the very least! The only issue I can think of is the constant jaw ache from all the laughing, you’ll have so much fun!
it’s not a big problem just something you have to live with. I don’t like riding non stop for hours on end but do wish It did another 20 miles or do before the light appeared. To be honest when looking at a lot of bikes, low 40s mpg seems very common.
Yeah I get that. Part of the reason I really like the rally model over the "street" multies. Get more range out of the tank. And the phone pocket is out of sight. Very much doubt anyone actually uses that.
Not a V4 (1260) but on a recent trip in France I was down to 5km and a red flashing light but only managed to get 17.5 Lts in. On the other hand my chum on a BMW XR was showing 5km left and put in 19.5 lts! So BMW obviously have more accurate fuel gauges…
I don’t think many fuel tank capacities are very accurate. I suspect they all quote brimmed to overflowing with no pumps, gauges or pipes in the tank.
Yeah my V4 does that. Got to 4km range on Friday and only just got 19 litres in. And that was brimming it. It’s meant to have a 22l tank.
Isn't that more of a case how they decide to design the bike? I can see how Ducati can choose to have different volume as a reserve fuel compared to other brands. Unless there is some universally known rule which demands "all bikes to have 3L as reserve fuel" that I've never heard of?
There's not many places in the civilised world you'll need more than a tank of fuel, with half decent planning. I'll block you if you carry a jerry can on that bike
The best planning can cock up if the intended stop is closed, I agree, but if that happens, I'll call out recovery and admire the view whilst resting before I'll carry fuel.
Do you guys reckon there is a snowflake chance in hell they will start selling demo V4 Rally stradas any time soon? When I asked in the shop, they simply said "too soon, must have them for 6 months before selling". I'm a bit split about this, if I should wait, and get a cheaper Multi. Or get a brand new order in. Getting a brand new in seems like a little bit of waste of money, given they seem to depreciate in price a little fater than say BMW. And while I plan to keep the bike long term, I could potentially save few grand. But could also be waiting for no reason, if they would be selling well.
There won’t be any for sale for a few months, and I’d be surprised if you’d save a few grand, especially as there isn’t any stock available. If you’re keeping it for a few years, get a new one and be happy knowing that nobody but you has only ever ridden it. I certainly wouldn’t consider buying an ex demo bike, as you don’t know how it’s been ridden.
