We PRO-filed the Enduro

The Multistrada is one of Ducati’s flagship models, great for long trips and therefore very comfortable and equipped with cutting-edge safety systems. The devices mounted on the bike can be monitored from the 5” display of the on-board computer and modified through a button on the handlebars.

• ABS with Vehicle Hold Control (VHC) that holds the vehicle steady when climbing,automatically modulating brake pressure during starts. This leaves the rider free to focus on throttle and clutch;
• Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) an adjustable device that maximizes acceleration preventingfront wheel lift;
• Ducati Traction Control (DTC) that prevents rear wheel slip. It is a customizable electronic device studied to always offer the best grip. It is very useful when it rains or on slippery ground typical of off-road riding.;
• Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) EVO. The Sachs electronic suspensions have a 200 mmtravel with adjustable compression and rebound through the on-board computer;
• Full-LED head and rear lights and Ducati Cornering Lights (DCL) that provide a greater active safety: when the lean angle sensor detects that the bike is bending the dedicated LED are turned on and directed into the bend illuminating any obstacles.
• The Riding Mode has four different programs that determine the behavior of the bike in the different situations. In the Enduro Riding Mode the maximum power is reduced to 100 HP,the suspensions are configured with dedicated setup, the DCT set almost to the maximum while the ABS assists braking only when you slam on the brakes. The Urban Riding Mode also has the power reduced to 100 HP with maximum interaction with the DCT and the DWC, the ABS is set at level 3. With the Touring Riding Mode, the engine unleashes 152 HP but smooth and progressive delivery, DTC and DWC are set at maximum level, the ABS at level 3 while the DSS package maximizes comfort for the rider and passenger. With the Sport Riding Mode we get serious: sport-style suspension set up, 152 HP with a torque that enhances performance, ABS set at level 2, DTC and DWC at minimum interaction. The standard Riding Modes pre-set by the manufacturer offer the maximum safety and comfort. However, the single setups can be customized and saved by the rider in endless personalizations.

For our test, we preferred to use the bike as it comes out from the factory; those who love to travel can customize the bike based on their needs and taste thanks to the optional packages that include aluminum side cases, tank bags and many other accessories that can be purchased separately to help to “tailor” one’s bike.
The riding position can be compared to that of an enduro, i.e. upright that allows for long trips without tiring the body; the seat suitably supports the rider. The big tank (30 liters) is well shaped and slim so that the legs can maintain a natural position even during long journeys or when riding standing on the footpegs.
A medium height rider can easily touch the ground when sitting, however it is not easy to maneuver the bike without power paddling with your feet, most of the time it is better to walk it.
Even if we concentrated on off-road riding for the most part, we also tried the bike in the various situations one faces during a long trip; in each of these situations the bike showed qualities not always predictable in this kind of motorcycle.
On paved roads the rubber that covers the footpegs offers great comfort, dampening vibrations (to facilitate off-road use it is better to remove it); on highways, high speed can be easily reached without fastidious weaves or wobbles; given the raised position of the passenger and the minimum protection offered by the windshield, we recommend a more watchful driving when riding two-up.

The motorcycle is fun on mixed terrain and, despite the knobby tires, it is able to interpret curves bending as a true sports bike, with an engine that is always nice and fast when exiting the curve.

City driving, wearing a suit and tie and loafers, is the least suitable for this kind of motorcycles, the size is considerable, maneuvering is not easy and … you better not lose your balance. On the other hand, everybody turns around to look at this “big-girl”.

Off-road riding is where we went wild, since with only a bit caution and passable skills you can go almost everywhere. However, if you are thinking that, thanks to its electronics and to the Endurowriting on the tank, it is easy to ride everywhere in addition to “normal” off-road” trails, your math is off! After we got to know the motorcycle pre-set adjustments, via the TFT display we zero-set all the devices including ABS and Traction control. A long shot that paid off since it allowed a more objective assessment of the bike’s qualities: lots of fun even with the 19” front tire that eats up any obstacle, excellently assisted by the suspensions always at the top. Maneuverability and stability are its best attributes, the Brembo braking system features a double front disc brake that directly responds to the pressure applied to the lever, and a rear brake that intervenes at the right moment when going into a skid. The Scorpion Rally tires are excellent on blacktop and on dry dirt roads, but aren’t as good on wet ground especially the front which tends to widen the trajectory. Always accurate when changing gears, the transmission of this Ducati is smooth in shifting and spacing. Finally, the fuel consumption of the two-cylinder Testastretta engine is low since it provides a range of over 500 km.

To become the owner of an ENDURO PRO you need to shell out 23.000,- Euro to the bike dealer;it is not chicken feed but the equipment supplied as standard, the excellent quality of the finish together with performance and aesthetics to die for, make it worth it.
We loved the Multistrada Enduro PRO.

Text by: Pietro Bartolomei