Any issues I've had over the 3 x Multistradas I've owned, covering a total of 85k miles, none have ever left me stranded at the roadside. So I'd rate the Multistrada as extremely reliable, can't say the same for the 4 previous BMWs 2 x K1200S and 2 x K1300S, stranded with rear shock failure, gearbox failure and 3 x final drive failures. Yes the Multistradas have had a few annoying problems, several warped discs, quickshifter failure twice, hardly catastrophic though and all replaced under warranty, however nothing has soured my enjoyment of a fantastic, capable and fun machine.
The other problem is that it is always the problems and issues that you read about, no one ever writes that their bike is amazingly, boringly reliable!
What was so terrible with the way bikes always used to be; the ignition couldn't be turned on when the steering lock was on? I do worry about all this modern technology; I bought a new-ish car the other week, and everything works perfectly, but I keep hearing about issues with stop/start... And anyway, steering locks don't stop bikes being stolen; they are usually just manhandled into the back of a Transit.
Hate to hear about the issues but I've no real problems with the Duc's, the only real issue was the rear shock on the 1299 decided to give out. They are all great to be honest, I really cant see myself on anything not coming from Italy at this point. The Aprilla and the MV have giveing me me problems that the Duc's.
It looks like LD that it’s a matter of luck whichever make you buy. I could introduce you to a lad that after his reliability problems with his bike who wouldn’t have a Yam even if you paid him. Look at the debacle with BMW and their rear shock, how long were those people not allowed to ride their bikes for ? To me it boils down to whatever bike gives you a buzz to ride, not how reliable it is that matters. There’s something to be said about the sense of achievement you get when you get to your goal despite the problems you may encounter. But then again if I needed a reliable bike for work I’d get a car.
That's true insofar as few people use their bike for commuting these days, they are a leisure activity. But, on the other hand, if your bike breaks down on the way to work, it's an inconvenience, but surely other means of travel are available. If your bike breaks down on holiday, and you are in the middle of nowhere in the Highlands, or abroad...
Yes, I get what you’re saying broke and I pretty much agree with you, but don’t you think that some issues, the fuel sensor and steering lock on Ducatis, the rear suspension debacle and ring antenna on BMWs should never happen? In this day and age, we shouldn’t have to put up with things like this that leave a rider stranded. Motorcyclists pay a lot of money to enjoy riding, but manufacturers appear to be taking the pi$$ out of us. If there is a common problem, then it simply should not continue to happen for years and years.
Mine was the OP. Having owned the Multi from new since 2015 i can say that is the only reliability issue I've had with the bike - although thats probably now cursed it!!! Equally, i havent used the steering lock since the original issue was resolved under warranty!!!
