I test drove the 2015 MS and KTM 1290 Super Adventure. Tough decision as both bikes excel at different things. If I were going to spend significant time adventure riding on gravel/dirt roads over long distances between gasoline stations the KTM is hands down a better choice, but I chose the MS because unimproved roads will be about 10% of my riding time. Be aware that both bikes are large and tall. I am 6 ft. tall with a 35 in. inseam and weigh 175 lbs. Upon dismounting the KTM my foot brushed the rear seat pillow. This happened several times. That is the second reason I opted for the MS. The KTM is to bikes what Clydesdale is to horses. The MS is definitely a more compact package... lighter, and more nimble. I took delivery yesterday. So, I have 370 miles on the MS. Once I figured out how to set the ride preload, etc. it is a dream to ride. I am in the break in process so the bike is restricted to approx. 5,500 rpm. It still is a riot to ride. The only issue is the bluetooth not allowing music to play. I will probably terminate the link to the bike and use the Sena headset controls. The bluetooth interaction is a disappointment, however, everything else is superb. I have tried three of the ride modes and found that Urban really is designed for congested, slow riding over rough pavement. Probably will not use that mode again. Touring mode is excellent on dry and rain soaked pavement. Nearly all of my riding probably will be in this mode. Sport mode is exciting to the point of frightening...to be used on dry roads carefully. Handling is razor sharp in both Touring and Sport modes and rough roads that beat the crap out of me on my other bikes feel like glass on the MS. My butt is sore, but I hope that is part of the break in process and the seat will become more forgiving. The brakes are a conundrum. Seems as though there is no rear brake and the front brake would stop a locomotive. Somehow the brake system works well and I have no fear of short stops for red lights, etc. It was raining when I picked up the bike and the brakes work as advertised on slick and winding roads. All in all, the MS delivers everything Ducati promises in the literature. Before buying I would recommend riding the KTM.
So many combinations for suspension settings in every mode, you can adapt them all. I think the whole Bluetooth system needs a lot of work to get it working correctly, I suspect there will be some software upgrades along the way, I do get the feeling it was a little rushed to get the bike on the market.
The preload is set by the factory for each mode. I used to race a Porsche and currently ride a suspension mountain bike. To best understand why setting preload is critical, buy a suspended MTB and just jump on it and ride over a rough trail. Then set the preload and rebound to the correct levels and ride it again. The improvement in rider control will be dramatic and very easy to feel. The harder and faster an object moves the more important suspension settings become. If a person rides in a moderate manner suspension settings are no longer critical, however, if that rider has a brain fart and takes the bike to the edge of physics the incorrect suspension setting may drop the bike on the pavement. I learned from people much more experienced and smarter than me that all adjustable suspensions require a starting point. That point is preload which sets the correct sag. I suggest working with your dealer to establish the correct preload for your weight and suspension travel. Then ride the bike and fine tune the preload for your riding style. Don't just try to wing it and do this on your own.
Agreed. but be aware that relatively few dealers (in my experience) are any good at suspension setup and even fewer know how to set up for road (rather than track) use. It took me a few years of bad experiences with 'professionals' for me to learn the basics myself. But the baseline setting of sag through preload is quite easy to do, albeit that you'll need a few extra hands. After that, the Skyhook can look after the damping.
If you are south based, head down to Snells and ask for Paul to set it up. No idea what they are charging but results are execllent, knows his stuff
+1 - Snell's are excellent - I flew 500 miles to buy my Multistrada from them. Rob at Pro Twins is also very good at setup, even if I've had other issues with them.
Yes,that would be quite a journey. I signed up on this forum as it is the finest for Ducati that I have found.....anywhere. Please keep the valuable posts coming and even a Yank can appreciate the insights from the rest of the planet.
