Ducati has taken its Multistrada family to the edge of sport-touring sanity with the new Multistrada V4 RS, updated for 2026 with a numbered-series machine that blends MotoGP madness with long-haul civility. Think Panigale V4 engine, titanium bits, radar tech, and a dry clutch that sounds like a toolbox being thrown down a stairwell… but in a good way.
At its heart is the 1,103 cc Desmosedici Stradale engine, tuned for smoother low-end delivery but still capable of providing 177 bhp (132kw) at 13,500 rpm. Ducati’s engineers have shortened the final gear ratio, added a dry STM-EVO SBK clutch, and fitted an Akrapovič muffler to ensure the V4 RS doesn’t just go fast, it sounds fast too.
The chassis is equally bonkers: brand new 17-inch Marchesini forged aluminium wheels, updated Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension, and a single-sided swingarm all scream performance. Yet, Ducati hasn’t forgotten its touring roots. The titanium subframe saves 2.5 kg and still accommodates panniers but now a top box too, while the upwash ducts keep the rider’s legs cool, or warm, depending on the weather.
Electronics? It’s basically a MotoGP pit wall on two wheels most of which has been updated for the 2026 model. The Ducati Vehicle Observer simulates 70 sensors to fine-tune ABS, traction, and wheelie control. There’s radar-powered Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Detection, and even a smartphone compartment with forced ventilation because overheating your phone while navigating is so 2024.
Ergonomics lean sporty, with higher footpegs and a lower, narrower handlebar. Yet comfort remains a priority, making this the most track-capable touring bike Ducati has ever built. Available in a single RS livery from November 2025, the V4 RS also comes with a four-year unlimited mileage warranty just in case the fastest lap of Planet Earth is on your to-do list.
Here’s an overview of the new standard features, a must for any acronym-lovers out there (those that have been updated are in bold):
Main standard features
1,103 cc Ducati Desmosedici Stradale engine with valve clearance check every 30,000 km
Dry clutch
Aluminium monocoque frame and aluminium single-sided swingarm
Titanium rear subframe
Carbon fibre details
Semi-active Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 event-based electronic suspension with improved strategies
New 17-inch Marchesini forged aluminium wheels with Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, 120/70 ZR17 front and 190/55 ZR17 rear
Bosch-Brembo 10.3ME ABS Cornering braking system with Front-to-Rear strategy
330 mm diameter front discs with Brembo Stylema 4-piston radial calipers
Full LED headlight with DRL and new Ducati Cornering Lights (DCL)
6.5" TFT dashboard with colour screen and dedicated graphics and display*
Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)
Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO)
4 Power Modes (Full, High, Medium, Low)
5 Riding Modes (Race, Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet)
Front and rear radar technology (Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection)
Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) DVO
Ducati Traction Control (DTC)
Engine Brake Control (EBC)
Hands-Free Start
Ducati Connect with phone, music, and map navigation apps
Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0
Vehicle Hold Control (VHC)
Ducati Brake Light (DBL) EVO
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