The logic of a hugely complex and expensive mega-enduro bike might be hard to justify, but you can’t fault how amazingly effective Ducati’s Multistrada Enduro is. And the evidence suggests the new 2019 model has taken a big step forward. Now boasting the 156bhp 1262cc DVT (Desmodromic Variable Timing) engine, the new Enduro will be able to punch 85% of its torque to the back wheel at just 3500rpm. In performance terms, it’s got 18% more shove at 5500rpm than its 1198cc predecessor. This longer stroke engine also breathes better with an almost completely new exhaust system that nestles under the limits for Euro4, and presumably it’ll pass the imminent Euro5 regs too.
The gearbox gets a shorter first gear for improved off-road control and drive, and its impressive grunt is controlled by the latest Bosch 6-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU). That means wheelie control, cornering ABS, four riding modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, and Enduro), eight-level traction control, communication with Sachs Skyhook semi-active suspension, hill hold control, cruise control, bi-directional quickshifter, and more. All of this is navigable via new switchgear and a 5in TFT colour dash, which includes multimedia connectivity for incoming calls, SMS messages and music support. As previously, it comes alive via keyless ignition, too. A tyre pressure monitoring system is an optional extra. Like its predecessor, it gets a 30-litre fuel tank that Ducati says is good for a 280-mile range. Standard service is every 9000 miles and every 18k for a ‘Desmo’. The Enduro uses a twin-spar swingarm, which is now half a kilo lighter and 3mm shorter. The steel trellis frame’s rake remains the same, but offset increases by 1mm. To improve comfort the bars have dropped by 30mm and the seat by 10mm to 860mm. There’s an 840 or 880mm seat option too. The bike runs new Pirelli Scorpion Trail IIs on spoked tubeless aluminium rims (120/70 R19 and 170/60 R17), for claimed better mileage without any dropoff in on or off road performance, wet of dry. The wheels have also been redesigned, shaving off 2kg compared to the outgoing model.
Highlights
Engine 1262cc DVT tl liquid-cooled V-win
Max power 156bhp at 8000rpm
Weight 245k (kerb)
Seat height 860mm
Price TBC
New seat design aims to offer taller riders better comfort Ducati’s Multistrada Enduro gets major updates for 2019.
Full first test in next week’s in Drive-My EN/UK moto/bike section
