The Ducati Multistrada 1100S as Used Motorcycle

Buying a Ducati, new or used, isn't really a decision you make with thinking it over. The desire for an expensive and idiosyncratic exotic motorcycle obviously comes from the heart, but it doesn't necessarily mean you have to relinquish all comfort, practicality, or sense. Nearly ten years ago, in order to bad a few more sales the Bologna firm gave us the surprising looking Ducati Multistrada 1100S. A motorcycle Ducati designed literally for 'all roads”.

Ducati currently sells the brand new Multistrada 1200, which is marvelous machine, but it doesn't mean the previous model is an inadequate motorcycle.

Looking at a average secondhand Ducati Multistrada 1100S your first impression with the motorcycle are usually not that impressive, but at least a Multistrada 1100S version with the later 1100cc lump and shiny Öhlins suspension bolted to each end delivers a healthy dose of that Ducati ownership appeal. It may not have classic lines, but this is one Ducati you can't fault for comfort and usability.

The upright riding position is almost unique amongst pure road motorcycle but thanks to the taller screen the Ducati Multistrada 1100S feels like your favorite armchair no matter what speed the comprehensive Magneti Marelli dash is displaying. Even your lower legs stay reasonably well protected. As kilometer munchers go for the Ducati Multistrada 1100S as it is up there with the best of them, something that's helped by the smooth and gutsy desmo engine complete with very tall gearing. It feels like it's barely ticking over at a socially acceptable 140km/h and even returns pretty decent fuel economy, too.

While it's hardly one of Ducati's most interesting motorcycles, it performs well in this chassis. The fueling is perfect, the delivery predictable and linear, and with a set of aftermarket exhaust pipes bolted on it sounds the part too.

Is the new Ducati Multistada 1200 better? Sure, the new Multistrada 1200 is a marvelous piece of engineering and development, but for the average rider a used Ducati Multistrada 1100S is a perfect touring/adventure machine.