I'm considering buying a pre-2025 model Multistrada V2S to replace my problematic BMW S1000XR TE, and would appreciate any observations, views, opinions or advice on the wisdom of this option. My last Multistrada was a 2014 GT, which went well but drank fuel and had a number of recurrent problems. There seems to be a number of attractive deals at the moment for the earlier version with the widely used desmo engine, which would help offset the cost of accessories I would need - Touring and performance Pack for example. I am undecided whether the new model represents the better long term purchase, having the new frame, 890cc engine, chain driven cams and spring returned valves, and then add the accessories gradually, while waiting for better weather. As said, all contributions, including notification of errors made, will be considered before a final decision is taken. Tom. PS. A title prefix seems to be mandatory, but no V2 so 950 selected as nearest option.
I’m an ex S1kXR owner (early TE model of current version, traded in a few years ago as it was also “problematic”) now own a DesertX (same engine as the 950 multi) after 3 years on a V4 Multi . I would suggest trying to get the S version for the adaptive suspension (Ducati’s have better versions than BMWs adaptive sussies) & the 937 Duc engine is a peach in my DesertX, with far better low end grunt /pick up than the flat as a 2-stoke out of its powerband pick of the S1000XR . It obviously won’t/doesn’t have the top end banshee wail but it shouldn’t vibrate your hands and feet off either. Whether or not it’s better than next years 890 V2 Multi is anyone’s guess but do factor in that will have an effect on 2nd hand values of the old version so angle for all the discounts you can get imo. I love the DesertX it’s great fun and has iconic looks (imo) which is the main reason I chose it instead of a V2S Multi earlier this year.
I crossed the new V2 off my list, no radar, no blind spot detection and a small display. Was not impressed. Andy
No one has ridden the new V2 yet so i would reserve judgement. Much will depend on how much discount you can get off the current model. TBH as a road bike, it makes more sense than the V4 imho.
When I was test riding for my replacement bike I rode a MTS 950. I liked it in all respects except the engine I found very underwhelming. I was changing from MTS 1200 2013 model. So the 950 was struck off the list. I ended up buying the new tracer 9GT. I cannot believe that is a similar capacity to the Duke but with so much more performance.
Before I got my V4S I had a 950 then V2S Travel. Just looking at the stats looks like there will be a difference in the power deliver with the new engine 2025 890cc Power 85 kW/115 HP @ 10750 rpm Torque 92,1 Nm @ 8250 rpm <2024 937cc Power 83 kW/113 HP @9000 rpm Torque 94 Nm @6750 rpm That's quote a difference in terms of having more "low-down grunt" I did a lot of touring with mine and it did the job really well .. Also added a stack of accessories - greating the right screen took a few goes, but there's plenty of other threads on that topic.
Once you have had the blind spot detector, you wouldn’t go back, from my perspective, a huge safety feature. I also need to see the speedo, my observer accreditation requires a clean licence. Andy
It's a mesh type cover from Cool Covers https://www.coolcovers.co.uk/product/ducati-multi-strada-v2-950-2022-current/ (You can buy similar style covers more cheaply on eBay, Aliexpress) These covers work great in the summer to help you keep cool.
I agree with the previous responses re the underwhelming engine. I downgraded from a 2015 1200 dvt and straignt away noticed the V2s does not have the thrills. Worse around town, worse on a tour. Though a mid pipe and re map helped with low speed torque and snatchiness and hunting around town. It is as if the V2s has the top 20% and bottom 20% chopped off the power spread. No dvt also may affect in that case. Also you will see cost cutting measures compared to your 2014 MTS GT. M4 Brembo front brakes versus Stylemas (though maybe older calipers on the GT), plastic sump guard, no sexy single sides swing arm, unpainted front guard and beak, the list goes on. Still not many other choices in this segment except the Tracer 9GT and Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro.
To provide an update. I have been waiting to have a claim under Warranty settled on the S1000XR, and that has been confirmed this week, but a recall notice has recently arrived (Oil Filter), which I need to sort out first. In the interim, I've been considering my options, locating candidate bikes and considering the advice in this thread. Depending on what I decide to do with the BMW, sell or trade, I am seriously considering buying a new bike of the pre-2025 V2S variety, not the 2025 new model, and then add the touring pack, a slip on silencer and some additional protection. There are a few of these bikes being offered, but with quite a wide spread in the asking price, so I am searching for the best deal overall. Some of the bikes on offer are pre-registered during 2024, so the warranty period is being reduced as time before sale passes, which of course wouldn't apply to an unregistered bike, but then the overall deal on offer needs to be evaluated. Also, I need to travel to see the most of the bikes on offer, and that needs arranging, not straightforward if the dealers are closed on Sunday and Monday. I realise that if I take too long to decide, I may lose the bikes I'm interested in, but I don't want to rush the sale and purchase, and there's always another bike out there! I'll update the thread when things are more certain. Thanks for all the useful advice so far, it has helped and included points that had not occurred to me. Tom.
On the plus side: 19 inch front, more stable on gravel roads, better TFT screen, quickshifter, lighter.
3 years ago I went from 10 years of MTS1200 2012 to new Tracer 9GT. I desperately wanted to stay with Ducati and was hoping the MTS 950 would be a great possibility. How wrong can you be. To me was as dead as a dodo after the 1200 . Not being rude but to me that would have been a pointless change. Tried several bikes on longish rides. None grabbed me until the Tracer. It wanted to misbehave immediately, stirred something inside me and I couldn’t stop grinning for ages. Smaller engine that MTS950 but goes like stuff of a shovel. I think with the latest 950 Ducati are actually trying to emulate the Tracer!
Would you not consider a lightly used V4S? Got to be similar money, warranty is extendable and in the softer part of the depreciation curve.
