2017 Ducati Multistrada 950 Fast Facts, Photos, and Video
When the Ducati Multistrada 1200 was introduced for 2010, it was the first to morph four bikes into one. The new Multi arrived with four riding modes–Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro–and the S version was upgraded with semi-active electronic “Skyhook” suspension that automatically adjust damping based on terrain.
The Multistrada was extremely capable in Sport, Touring and Urban modes, but suffered a bit in the off-road Enduro mode, mostly due to its 17” alloy wheels. This changed in 2016 with the introduction of the Multistrada Enduro, which not only arrived with off-road worthy 19” front/17” rear spoked wheel, but extended suspension travel and protection.
But how about those who want a more versatile and accessible Multistrada? Ducati answered that call at 2016 EICMA (Milan Motorcycle Show) Monday with the unveiling of its newest model—the Multistrada 950.
[Read more 2017 Motorcycle Previews]
If the Multistrada and Multistrada Enduro mated, the 950 would be their teenage offspring. The MST950 combines the best elements of both parents, and places them into a more accessible package powered by the well-received 939 Testastretta L-Twin, that also powers the new SuperSport.
We’re working on a more in-depth preview of this machine, and will be testing it soon, but for now, here are the Ultimate Motorcycling Fast Facts.
2. The 950 is powered by the 937cc Testastretta L-twin, the same 113-horsepower engine found in the Hypermotard lineup. The engine, which produces 71 ft/lbs of torque at 7750 rpm, was tuned to offer power throughout the rpm range. As for service intervals, they are every 9000 miles, and 18,000 miles for valve clearance checks.
3. Like the Enduro, the 950 arrives with 19-inch front/17-inch rear wheels for more off-road performance. But you won’t find spoked wheels here; we’re waiting to confirm if the Enduro’s stock wheels will mate, and if they’ll be available as an accessory. The MST950 arrives stock with Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tires (120/70 19 front; 170/60 17 rear).
4. Also like the Enduro, the Multistrada 950 arrives with a traditional swingarm. This helps keeps cost down over the more-expensive single-arm unit, and will be much easier to manage if you get a flat tire off-road.
5. Suspension duties are handled by a KYB 48mm upside-down forks, and a Sachs shock. Both are fully adjustable, and like the Multistrada 1200, both offer 6.7 inches of travel.
6. At 62.8 inches, the Multistrada 950 has the longest wheelbase in the Multistrada lineup. The 1200’s is 60.2 and the 1200 Enduro’s 61.3 inches. This is due to a longer rake of 25.2 degrees compared to the 1200’s 24 degrees and the Enduro’s 25 degrees.
7. Naturally, the Multistrada 950 is the lightest in the family at 500 lbs. wet. To put this into perspective, the base 1200 weighs 511 lbs.; the 1200 S 518 lbs.; and the Enduro 560 lbs.
8. Though you would expect a lower seat height, the new mid-weight Multistrada arrives with a non-adjustable seat height of 33.1 inches. Accessory seats are available at 32.3 and 33.9 inches. Again, to put this into perspective, Multistrada 1200 arrives with an adjustable seat of 32.5 or 33.1 inches.
9. A Multistrada would not be “multi” without four riding modes and the latest in electronics, and the 950 is no different. The 950 arrives with Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro modes just like its siblings. It also arrives stock with ABS and an eight-level traction control system.
11. The Ducati Multistrada 950 is available in two colors: Ducati Red or Star White Silk. Both arrive with the traditional Racing Grey frame and matte grey wheels.
12. In regards to pricing, this is the cheapest you’ll ever get a Multistrada. The Red carries an MSRP of $13,995, and the white $14,195. The base Multistrada 1200 runs $17,995.
With over 50,000 motorcycles sold-to-date, Ducati already broke its yearly sales record of 49,763 set in 2015. The tactics behind the growth are simple–offer improved reliability, which Ducati has over the past decade, and extend variety.
Since 2010, Ducati has upped the variety factor across its separate lineups of bikes, from Monster to the Hypermotard to the Scrambler, the latter becoming a brand within itself. And now Ducati’s Multistrada lineup grows with its third member–the Multistrada 950. With a price point of around $14,000, this teenage Multistrada should assist in further growth. Stay clicked to Ultimate Motorcycling for a First Ride soon!
2017 Ducati Multistrada 950 Photo Gallery
