I just bought a 2013 Ducati Multistrada S Touring with 22,500 miles. Its my first bike in over 15 years and I was a little scared about getting back in the saddle (so to speak) not knowing about maintenance schedules, the condition, potential pitfalls, etc. I was thrilled to find you have so many videos just on this bike. Tis a big help. Thanks
Hello Brent You’ve got yourself a great bike, I miss my multistrada it was the best handling bike I’ve owned. I wish for you lots of fun on your new bike and welcome back to biking !!! Best wishes Carl
Thank you very much for posting your entire series. I am a long time Ducati owner and my fourth Duc is a 2016 MTS 1200E which I purchased as the 2nd owner 3 years ago. I have tried both the OEM and my MRS windscreen and can only avoid buffeting with a clip on add to the OEM screen. It never dawned on me to raise the lower part by 8mm. Brilliant! We all owe you a few pints. Prost and thanks for all the great info.
Hi Robert, thank you for your compliment. Raising the lower edge of the screen might not work for everyone. But if you try it, and it works for you on your DVT, please let the viewers know here in the comments section. It's also much simpler on your bike as the lower mounting is just one bolt. Best wishes Carl
After watching who knows how many motorcycle videos on UA-cam, I can honestly say I haven't seen one where so much great information was presented so well. Just seeing all the part nubmers and all the detail that went into your video is what made me subscribe. Keep up the great work!!
Hello and welcome Amir, thank you for your comments. I am trying to do something new and different with this channel, I hope many others will enjoy the content to come. It's very early days and I have a lot to learn. Posting content that is informative and helpful is my aim, plus having some fun along the journey. Currently editing Part 3 which is brakes and Brembo upgrades.. It's a lot of work but I hope to have it finished next week. I will always remember you, Amir: the very first subscriber to leave a comment on my channel :-) Kindest regards, Carl
Just started watching this series how good is this. Fantastic easy to follow and great explanation thanks for always posting your informative videos great job
Congrats on putting together some well documented honest and detailed videos. Bought my first ducati MS 1200 only yesterday. The screen was the first thing I noticed that needed resolving. Cheers for the info
Hi Rob, I do hope you enjoy your new Multistrada, and spring is almost here. I've been thinking, would you and our other subscribers like to see a picture / Image of your own motorbikes.... here on the channel?
Hi Fred, now that is an amazing find, your going to lots of fun with the GT, beautiful bike 👍 Try visiting your local dealership they might some seats you can try. Carl 🙏
I did exactly the same with my triumph 1200 explorer screen, around 7-8mm at the bottom and 2mm at the top as the angle was such that i couldnt get the screws in the top 2 threads, but what a difference it made.
thanks for building this resource. I live in Canada and California I have had 26 bikes. Like you all Japanese, started with Honda.... up to CX500 Turbo... then Kawasaki to GPz1100... Yamaha FZR1000.... married so Venture, Venture Royale, Concours 1000, Kawasaki Nomad 1500 then ZZR1200, then BMW's.... R115RT, a couple of those now with R1200RT. I am looking to replace my existing R1150RT (in California). I've been looking at FJR1300 and Concours 1400 but used Ducati's are very well priced. I am a little afraid of buying a used Ducati, even with low miles. watching your videos is helping me work up the courage to pull the trigger on a 2013 DUCATI MULTISTRADA 1200 S.
Hi Don, welcome! What a nice collection of bikes you have had and what a nice journey of ownership. I am pleased you many others are enjoying the series, I know it's not perfect but as long as viewers enjoy it and find it helpful... my aim is accomplished. I think you will enjoy a 13' S and in the US you can pick them up for a very good price. Best wishes Carl
Hi Carl....torn between buying a bmw (1250 gsa) vs MS either 1260/V4s. I plan on doing mostly paved riding....rarely packed gravel....and likely zero off-road. Love the shaft drive of the bmw (had a 2022 1250rt). Love your channel and your thoroughness and detail!!!!!
Fred it’s a difficult choice both bikes are at the top level both have ample performance, the V4 more. Try to test both back to back and then decide Ultimately I went bmw due to number of factors resale value was a big one for me here in Germany as ALL GS/A models hold there value better and the V4 has poor mpg plus higher servicing costs at a dealership, and finally it was the part exchange price I was offered by the bmw dealer which was 3k more than my Ducati dealer Carl
Hi Carl, I own a Piles Peak Multistrada 2011. After LeoVince decat plus MIVV silencer and remap by Ralf Mueler, BeFaster I am very happy with the engine, the Oehlins suspension with the Oehlins SCU upgrade is great and the Pikes Peak seat is very comfortable even after 8 hours ride. The last think was the windscreen. I have tried both the standard and the tall touring screens, but as the best solution for me worked the short carbon PP screen. I have tried Your modification to open small gap for the airflow under the screen, and it works as a miracle. My Shoei helmet is now quiet as it should be, and I am looking forward to our big 10days trip from Sicilia through Italy, France and Austria back home to Czech Republic. As a long time owner and mechanic of my next Ducatis (1098R and 999S for the track, ST4S and 999R just as a toy) I could not be happier with my touring motorcycle. I also appreciate Your tip for the Bremszylinderpaste ATE. It really works. Many thanks! Vladimir
Hi Vladimir, thank you for sharing your experience and success with your Multistrada modifications 👍. It sounds like you have the perfect Ducati for your tour through Italy and over the mountains. I’m glad to hear you also found the screen modification useful and that it worked for you. Best wishes and have and enjoy a great holiday tour. Carl
What a wonderful presentation about the bike and the modifications you made. I am in process for buying Multistrada and I found your channel just a great source of crucial information. I like the way you explaining everything in steps with focus to the details. Thanks.
Really appreciate your MTS videos. Regarding the windscreen I found out similar things as you. Bigger screens only make more turbulence. Make my head shake uncomfortably and seems to make a stream between helmet and shoulders that makes a lot of noice creeping up to my ear. Bought a similar windscreen as you...FACO 28687 windshield tinted low-22, 5CM for Ducati 1260 Multistrada, And though there is some wind over the helmet, it is much less and has a nice steady flow without turbulence. A bit unexpected it works fine even in really high speeds!😃
Hello Erik and welcome to the channel, thank you for sharing your similar success story by installing a short screen. I’m sure other MTS owners can also benefit from this. Did you also try raising the lower mounting points slightly? This really helped solve all my issues. Best wishes Carl
I own a 2018 Multistrada 950. Faced similar issues initially with the seat, found it painful after doing about 150+Km. Someone suggested wearing gel-lined underwear....like the ones cyclists wear. Tried it, didn't make much of a difference. Then realised the problem is less with the cushioning and more with the seat width, it's narrow ( i'm lean...65 Kgs 172 cm). Went to a seat repair guy and got the seat widened to about an extra inch on either side. Also added a little extra foam in the middle section. No problems thereafter and have been doing 500+ km without any issues . The best money I've spent on the bike. For the wind-screen, have been using a Givi tall screen light-smoked. Works wonder for me but have been noticing wind noise above 140kmph. Will try the hack you suggested of lifting the screen from below by 8-10mm.
Hi Ashish and welcome to the channel. It's great when subscribers leave their succes stories for other owners to read, and its great you have found your solution for the seat. The lower screen spaces worked brilliantly for me, maybe they will work for you to. Best wishes Carl
This was really helpful thank you. My MS V2S arrives Saturday and I'm researching options to counter the turbulence. Like you, I'd concluded a 2 screen approach for touring v summer airflow. I'll buy a shortie carbon screen and was considering the MRA Vario Touring, but love your idea of a tap washer, appeals to my inner engineer. Im 6' too, so relevant. As a fellow UA-camr let me also congratulate you on your video and commentary.
Great series of videos. Thanks for all your effort. Extremely informative and useful. I also own a 2013 multistrada. I opted for adding a deflector screen to the standard multistrada screen - german product, MRA X-creen. Not very expensive, very well made, quite easy to install. My feeling is that it is close to perfect. The airflow is laminar and stretches higher than it used to, for example all but very heavy bugs pass over my visor, and I can drive with a partly open visor up to about 120 kph. I experience pretty close to no turbulence behind the screen except when behind some larger vehicles, and I think all of that turbulence has nothing to do with the screen. (btw the deflector screen is adjustable, took me a few weeks of fiddling to get a good setting which I haven't changed in 2 years now) Very happy with the solution.
Hi and thank you for the compliment. And a big 👍for sharing your great solution, I'm sure other multistrada owners will appreciate the extra hints and tips you have found. I will add more episodes in a week or two for the multistrada but at the moment I am having a short break while I have 1250GS on test. Best wishes Carl
@@justthewayitis Hi Carl, I have owned the 2013 for about 2 years now and I've found a couple of things (mods / enhancements) which I'm very happy with. The deflector screen is one of them, well worth it. Others : 1. replace clutch slave cylinder with third-party oberon slave cylinder from britain. Fantastic upgrade, worth every cent 2. worked with the tuneboy ecu programming software for nearly 2 years, improving the engine behaviour especially at low throttle, low rpm. Invaluable. Has also improved fuel consumption. (the tuneboy also adds cruise control, really can't live without it any more) 3. (not for everyone) replaced the clutch lever with a 'shorty' lever and learned how to use only 2 fingers on the clutch (this probably requires the oberon upgrade, which makes the clutch action a lot lighter). This upgrade was, for me, a revolution. Can never go back. 4. (you mentioned this one in one of your vids) upgrade to motolectric starter motor cable. Worth it. 5. Changed to motul 7100 10w60. My gear changes (esp 1 to 2 and 2 to 3) were sometimes a bit cringy. Totally gone, gearbox very happy now. 6. Added a 5V USB power socket on the right fairing to the right of the forks. Really valuable, allows me to use a GPS or other USB-powered stuff clamped to the handlebar (12V to USB adapter can be found nearly anywhere). 7. Bolted a larger foot pedal onto the rear brake (about twice as large as the standard one - is actually from BMW, I think off a GS1200 or something). The default pedal is too small and hidden for me, I much prefer the slightly larger one 8. Eliminated the catalytic converter. (dismantled the silencer box, had it cut open, cat destroyed with hammer and chisel leaving all the channels intact) then silencer welded together again. Bike is slightly louder but not that much, engine tone is lovely, FAR less heat in the foot region. 9. I had to strip the throttle (the handgrip), clean and lubricate with lithium grease - it was getting sticky and unpredictable. Much better now That's all I can think of, I think those were all the major ones.
Hi Clive, you have been very busy with your Multistrada and thankyou for the list of upgrades and changes you have done. I think other viewers will very much appreciate your list and give them several new ideas to try. Today the Snow arrived again in Germany so no more riding for a week. Thankyou again for the list and taking the time to list your changes here on the channel for me and others to read. Carl
Hi Stewart, good evening i will try... This link should take you to the Multistrada play list, currently 10 episodes: ua-cam.com/play/PLq52GC1b8UW_WmkgdAUGfM1YfURBw_UQj.html This link should take you to the BMW R series play list, which has only just started, and currently has one episode about the R1250R : ua-cam.com/play/PLq52GC1b8UW-Jl2LkFEoHO194RZDq1eyO.html And a new series is starting next week on the 2022 R1250GS Rallye, Please let me know if the links work... Kindest Regards Carl
Really enjoying your series of videos Carl 👍, these problems that plague motorcycles seem to persist although I have a feeling they’re improving as time goes on. I own a 4 year old V Strom 1000, the seat provides exactly the pain and discomfort you’ve described on the Multistrada, and the standard screen turbulence isn’t just annoying it’s dangerous. I’ve been using a Wild Ass seat cushion with air and gel inserts it’s okay, extends range but is no match for a purpose built seat. I replaced the screen with a Givi airflow (two piece affair which allows air to pass between the two sections) which you can also adjust up and down (height). The OEM Suzuki screen attachment also allows you to change the rake (angle of attack) of the screen, through a spring loaded mechanism on the fly as well……..but I still experienced turbulence across the upper arms (I’m 183cm 87kg). So I added some 20mm stand off fasteners making the screen stand proud of the bike - great up to around 60 mph smooth air etc., but the handling of the bike had drastically been affected so canned those. I then replaced and reduced the fastener size until I found the optimum sizing, which for me was 8mm. I now have good aero, even if the Givi screen does look bloody awful lol, I absolutely agree with your findings regarding a critical angle of attack.
Hi Andrew, thank you for taking time to comment, and like you, I feel that most motorbike manufactures are getting better as time moves forward. I think Ducati (now owned by the Audi and the bigger VW group) has made big steps forward with electronics, but have yet to fully resolve the reliability issues in terms of manufacturing and test / development. I am delighted you enjoyed the episode about seats & screens, which was a lot of fun for me during the testing process… I had so much foam and home-made spacers taped to my Multistrada, it looked very strange indeed. But as you have shared…. It feels really good to find a solution that works for you and your motorbike. I hope you continue to enjoy the channel, Carl
Great tips, thanks! I have the low seat on my 1200s Touring, and thankfully it's been perfect for me (5'1!", but with short legs) from the start and I haven't had to do the searching around that you have. Had similar turbulence issues with screens - after trying a few (the Touring original looks like the Pope's hat and is about as effective as a screen) I have stuck with an MRA Vario, which still isn't great. Have ordered a WRS shorty - summer's here anyway and it looks better :) Cheers!
The WRS short version is what I use almost... all the time for clean turbulence free rides. Every one is different but it looks and works great for me. Carl
Just a heads-up for other viewers; sadly Touratech don't appear to offer that seat any longer in the UK/EU (although their Vietnam site still has it listed). Just when I thought I'd found the solution to my coccyx getting numb..... 🤦♂️
Hi Michael, thankyou for your comments, I did look at the Sargent seats but they are no very easy to get here in Germany. I'm glad your happy with your seats. Carl
I've noticed with mine that if I stand while riding even at 70mph, it's quiet and smooth air flow around the helmet. While sitting it's noisier with a slight amount of buffeting, not enough to complain about for me. I've always thought about the PP screen but haven't got one yet. I've always thought the seats were the same except for the GT version. I have the 2014 s touring and still use the stock pilot seat, but I bought the comfort seat for the passenger which is the GT part. She didn't think it was better.
Hello Phil, the short screen I use is by WRS its almost exactly the same size as the PP but a lot cheaper, and available is different colours. This is what I use once summer is here, I prefer less noise and more airflow. And some how feel more connected to the bike and journey with the shorter screen. Thankyou for your comments best wishes Carl
Unrelated to the topics you covered, but I noticed your gps/phone mount. I'm looking for something similar. Do you mind sharing some details, pros, cons, etc? Thanks!
Hi Jeff, no problem and welcome to the channel. 👍 The gps mount came from Navihalter.de. also available at Navihalter.eu. and I think it was 90€ . I found it works very well with both the standard screen and the short pikes peak screen. I did not use it as a phone mount only for Gps devices. But its flexi mounting allows both types. Sturdy and well made with plenty of adjustment 👍. Best wishes Carl
hey, i am considering buying an MTS 1200. Thanks a lot for such precise information. Now I have MTS 1000DS, I still love it;) But if I get a well-groomed 1200 ... - who knows.
Hi the PP was better than the original seat in terms of comfort, but the Touratech seat has a dip in the middle for your coccyx bone (tail bone) which for me transforms the comfort to a very high level. Brilliant seat if you can find one. Hope that helps Carl 🙋🏻♂️
Hi,can you tell me how tall are you? I have a MRA vario touring screen on my multi,but as time passes i am starting to dislike it. It is wobbly at higher speeds and i don't like the look of it,it doesnt fit flush with the bike.
Part numbers you need for the original ones can be found here. www.bike-parts-ducati.com/ducati-motorcycle/Multistrada/2013/Multistrada_1200_S_GT/Multistrada-1200-S-GT/ACCESSORIES/372/2319/0/372
Hi Mark, no complaints from my wife, only positive comments about its comfort over short and long rides. I did ask her if we should try something different... but she said no.. its great and I'm very happy with it. I think Sargent Seats used to offer a passenger seat option, but I'm not aware of any other brands. Best wishes Carl
I just bought a 2013 Ducati Multistrada S Touring with 22,500 miles. Its my first bike in over 15 years and I was a little scared about getting back in the saddle (so to speak) not knowing about maintenance schedules, the condition, potential pitfalls, etc. I was thrilled to find you have so many videos just on this bike. Tis a big help. Thanks
Hello Brent You’ve got yourself a great bike, I miss my multistrada it was the best handling bike I’ve owned. I wish for you lots of fun on your new bike and welcome back to biking !!!
Best wishes Carl
Thank you very much for posting your entire series. I am a long time Ducati owner and my fourth Duc is a 2016 MTS 1200E which I purchased as the 2nd owner 3 years ago. I have tried both the OEM and my MRS windscreen and can only avoid buffeting with a clip on add to the OEM screen. It never dawned on me to raise the lower part by 8mm. Brilliant! We all owe you a few pints. Prost and thanks for all the great info.
Hi Robert, thank you for your compliment. Raising the lower edge of the screen might not work for everyone. But if you try it, and it works for you on your DVT, please let the viewers know here in the comments section. It's also much simpler on your bike as the lower mounting is just one bolt. Best wishes Carl
After watching who knows how many motorcycle videos on UA-cam, I can honestly say I haven't seen one where so much great information was presented so well. Just seeing all the part nubmers and all the detail that went into your video is what made me subscribe. Keep up the great work!!
Hello and welcome Amir, thank you for your comments. I am trying to do something new and different with this channel, I hope many others will enjoy the content to come. It's very early days and I have a lot to learn. Posting content that is informative and helpful is my aim, plus having some fun along the journey. Currently editing Part 3 which is brakes and Brembo upgrades.. It's a lot of work but I hope to have it finished next week. I will always remember you, Amir: the very first subscriber to leave a comment on my channel :-)
Kindest regards, Carl
Just started watching this series how good is this. Fantastic easy to follow and great explanation thanks for always posting your informative videos great job
Thank you 🙏 I hope you enjoy the series 🙋🏻♂️, Carl
Congrats on putting together some well documented honest and detailed videos. Bought my first ducati MS 1200 only yesterday. The screen was the first thing I noticed that needed resolving. Cheers for the info
Hi Rob, I do hope you enjoy your new Multistrada, and spring is almost here.
I've been thinking, would you and our other subscribers like to see a picture / Image of your own motorbikes.... here on the channel?
thank you for posting these; I just picked up a 2013 Gran Turismo with 480 original miles. Now on the lookout for a lower seat.
Hi Fred, now that is an amazing find, your going to lots of fun with the GT, beautiful bike 👍
Try visiting your local dealership they might some seats you can try.
Carl 🙏
I did exactly the same with my triumph 1200 explorer screen, around 7-8mm at the bottom and 2mm at the top as the angle was such that i couldnt get the screws in the top 2 threads, but what a difference it made.
Hi Stewart, its amazing what I little time experimenting can do and i am glad you also found a good solution for your Triumph. Carl
thanks for building this resource. I live in Canada and California I have had 26 bikes. Like you all Japanese, started with Honda.... up to CX500 Turbo... then Kawasaki to GPz1100... Yamaha FZR1000.... married so Venture, Venture Royale, Concours 1000, Kawasaki Nomad 1500 then ZZR1200, then BMW's.... R115RT, a couple of those now with R1200RT. I am looking to replace my existing R1150RT (in California). I've been looking at FJR1300 and Concours 1400 but used Ducati's are very well priced. I am a little afraid of buying a used Ducati, even with low miles. watching your videos is helping me work up the courage to pull the trigger on a 2013 DUCATI MULTISTRADA 1200 S.
Hi Don, welcome! What a nice collection of bikes you have had and what a nice journey of ownership. I am pleased you many others are enjoying the series, I know it's not perfect but as long as viewers enjoy it and find it helpful... my aim is accomplished. I think you will enjoy a 13' S and in the US you can pick them up for a very good price. Best wishes Carl
Hi Carl....torn between buying a bmw (1250 gsa) vs MS either 1260/V4s. I plan on doing mostly paved riding....rarely packed gravel....and likely zero off-road. Love the shaft drive of the bmw (had a 2022 1250rt). Love your channel and your thoroughness and detail!!!!!
Fred it’s a difficult choice both bikes are at the top level both have ample performance, the V4 more. Try to test both back to back and then decide
Ultimately I went bmw due to number of factors resale value was a big one for me here in Germany as ALL GS/A models hold there value better and the V4 has poor mpg plus higher servicing costs at a dealership, and finally it was the part exchange price I was offered by the bmw dealer which was 3k more than my Ducati dealer
Carl
Hi Carl, I own a Piles Peak Multistrada 2011. After LeoVince decat plus MIVV silencer and remap by Ralf Mueler, BeFaster I am very happy with the engine, the Oehlins suspension with the Oehlins SCU upgrade is great and the Pikes Peak seat is very comfortable even after 8 hours ride. The last think was the windscreen. I have tried both the standard and the tall touring screens, but as the best solution for me worked the short carbon PP screen. I have tried Your modification to open small gap for the airflow under the screen, and it works as a miracle. My Shoei helmet is now quiet as it should be, and I am looking forward to our big 10days trip from Sicilia through Italy, France and Austria back home to Czech Republic. As a long time owner and mechanic of my next Ducatis (1098R and 999S for the track, ST4S and 999R just as a toy) I could not be happier with my touring motorcycle. I also appreciate Your tip for the Bremszylinderpaste ATE. It really works. Many thanks! Vladimir
Hi Vladimir, thank you for sharing your experience and success with your Multistrada modifications 👍. It sounds like you have the perfect Ducati for your tour through Italy and over the mountains. I’m glad to hear you also found the screen modification useful and that it worked for you.
Best wishes and have and enjoy a great holiday tour.
Carl
What a wonderful presentation about the bike and the modifications you made. I am in process for buying Multistrada and I found your channel just a great source of crucial information. I like the way you explaining everything in steps with focus to the details. Thanks.
Hi Damian, welcome and thank you for the compliment. I hope you enjoy your new multistrada 👍 Carl
Hi Damian, welcome and thank you for the compliment. I hope you enjoy your new multistrada 👍 Carl
Which year / model are you thinking of buying Damian?
Really appreciate your MTS videos.
Regarding the windscreen I found out similar things as you. Bigger screens only make more turbulence.
Make my head shake uncomfortably and seems to make a stream between helmet and shoulders that makes
a lot of noice creeping up to my ear.
Bought a similar windscreen as you...FACO 28687 windshield tinted low-22, 5CM for Ducati 1260 Multistrada, And though there is some wind over the helmet, it is much less and has a nice steady flow without turbulence. A bit unexpected it works fine even in really high speeds!😃
Hello Erik and welcome to the channel, thank you for sharing your similar success story by installing a short screen. I’m sure other MTS owners can also benefit from this. Did you also try raising the lower mounting points slightly? This really helped solve all my issues.
Best wishes Carl
No! I just read about it....maybe next summer... 🙂
I own a 2018 Multistrada 950. Faced similar issues initially with the seat, found it painful after doing about 150+Km. Someone suggested wearing gel-lined underwear....like the ones cyclists wear. Tried it, didn't make much of a difference. Then realised the problem is less with the cushioning and more with the seat width, it's narrow ( i'm lean...65 Kgs 172 cm). Went to a seat repair guy and got the seat widened to about an extra inch on either side. Also added a little extra foam in the middle section. No problems thereafter and have been doing 500+ km without any issues . The best money I've spent on the bike. For the wind-screen, have been using a Givi tall screen light-smoked. Works wonder for me but have been noticing wind noise above 140kmph. Will try the hack you suggested of lifting the screen from below by 8-10mm.
Hi Ashish and welcome to the channel. It's great when subscribers leave their succes stories for other owners to read, and its great you have found your solution for the seat. The lower screen spaces worked brilliantly for me, maybe they will work for you to.
Best wishes Carl
This was really helpful thank you. My MS V2S arrives Saturday and I'm researching options to counter the turbulence. Like you, I'd concluded a 2 screen approach for touring v summer airflow. I'll buy a shortie carbon screen and was considering the MRA Vario Touring, but love your idea of a tap washer, appeals to my inner engineer. Im 6' too, so relevant. As a fellow UA-camr let me also congratulate you on your video and commentary.
Hello Back to the Bike, thank you, yes the 2 screen option actually works great. 8mm on the wahers for 1.83M tall 👍have fun and best wishes Carl
Great series of videos. Thanks for all your effort. Extremely informative and useful.
I also own a 2013 multistrada. I opted for adding a deflector screen to the standard multistrada screen - german product, MRA X-creen. Not very expensive, very well made, quite easy to install.
My feeling is that it is close to perfect. The airflow is laminar and stretches higher than it used to, for example all but very heavy bugs pass over my visor, and I can drive with a partly open visor up to about 120 kph.
I experience pretty close to no turbulence behind the screen except when behind some larger vehicles, and I think all of that turbulence has nothing to do with the screen.
(btw the deflector screen is adjustable, took me a few weeks of fiddling to get a good setting which I haven't changed in 2 years now)
Very happy with the solution.
Hi and thank you for the compliment. And a big 👍for sharing your great solution, I'm sure other multistrada owners will appreciate the extra hints and tips you have found. I will add more episodes in a week or two for the multistrada but at the moment I am having a short break while I have 1250GS on test. Best wishes Carl
@@justthewayitis Hi Carl,
I have owned the 2013 for about 2 years now and I've found a couple of things (mods / enhancements) which I'm very happy with. The deflector screen is one of them, well worth it.
Others :
1. replace clutch slave cylinder with third-party oberon slave cylinder from britain. Fantastic upgrade, worth every cent
2. worked with the tuneboy ecu programming software for nearly 2 years, improving the engine behaviour especially at low throttle, low rpm. Invaluable. Has also improved fuel consumption. (the tuneboy also adds cruise control, really can't live without it any more)
3. (not for everyone) replaced the clutch lever with a 'shorty' lever and learned how to use only 2 fingers on the clutch (this probably requires the oberon upgrade, which makes the clutch action a lot lighter). This upgrade was, for me, a revolution. Can never go back.
4. (you mentioned this one in one of your vids) upgrade to motolectric starter motor cable. Worth it.
5. Changed to motul 7100 10w60. My gear changes (esp 1 to 2 and 2 to 3) were sometimes a bit cringy. Totally gone, gearbox very happy now.
6. Added a 5V USB power socket on the right fairing to the right of the forks. Really valuable, allows me to use a GPS or other USB-powered stuff clamped to the handlebar (12V to USB adapter can be found nearly anywhere).
7. Bolted a larger foot pedal onto the rear brake (about twice as large as the standard one - is actually from BMW, I think off a GS1200 or something). The default pedal is too small and hidden for me, I much prefer the slightly larger one
8. Eliminated the catalytic converter. (dismantled the silencer box, had it cut open, cat destroyed with hammer and chisel leaving all the channels intact) then silencer welded together again. Bike is slightly louder but not that much, engine tone is lovely, FAR less heat in the foot region.
9. I had to strip the throttle (the handgrip), clean and lubricate with lithium grease - it was getting sticky and unpredictable. Much better now
That's all I can think of, I think those were all the major ones.
Hi Clive, you have been very busy with your Multistrada and thankyou for the list of upgrades and changes you have done. I think other viewers will very much appreciate your list and give them several new ideas to try. Today the Snow arrived again in Germany so no more riding for a week. Thankyou again for the list and taking the time to list your changes here on the channel for me and others to read. Carl
Hi
Great information on this, can you put a link to all the other episodes in the comments
many thanks
Hi Stewart, good evening
i will try...
This link should take you to the Multistrada play list, currently 10 episodes:
ua-cam.com/play/PLq52GC1b8UW_WmkgdAUGfM1YfURBw_UQj.html
This link should take you to the BMW R series play list, which has only just started, and currently has one episode about the R1250R :
ua-cam.com/play/PLq52GC1b8UW-Jl2LkFEoHO194RZDq1eyO.html
And a new series is starting next week on the 2022 R1250GS Rallye,
Please let me know if the links work...
Kindest Regards Carl
Really enjoying your series of videos Carl 👍, these problems that plague motorcycles seem to persist although I have a feeling they’re improving as time goes on.
I own a 4 year old V Strom 1000, the seat provides exactly the pain and discomfort you’ve described on the Multistrada, and the standard screen turbulence isn’t just annoying it’s dangerous.
I’ve been using a Wild Ass seat cushion with air and gel inserts it’s okay, extends range but is no match for a purpose built seat. I replaced the screen with a Givi airflow (two piece affair which allows air to pass between the two sections) which you can also
adjust up and down (height). The OEM Suzuki screen attachment also allows you to change the rake (angle of attack) of the screen, through a spring loaded mechanism on the fly as well……..but I still experienced turbulence across the upper arms (I’m 183cm 87kg).
So I added some 20mm stand off fasteners making the screen stand proud of the bike - great up to around 60 mph smooth air etc., but the handling of the bike had drastically been affected so canned those. I then replaced and reduced the fastener size until I found the optimum sizing, which for me was 8mm.
I now have good aero, even if the Givi screen does look bloody awful lol, I absolutely agree with your findings regarding a critical angle of attack.
Hi Andrew, thank you for taking time to comment, and like you, I feel that most motorbike manufactures are getting better as time moves forward. I think Ducati (now owned by the Audi and the bigger VW group) has made big steps forward with electronics, but have yet to fully resolve the reliability issues in terms of manufacturing and test / development.
I am delighted you enjoyed the episode about seats & screens, which was a lot of fun for me during the testing process… I had so much foam and home-made spacers taped to my Multistrada, it looked very strange indeed. But as you have shared…. It feels really good to find a solution that works for you and your motorbike. I hope you continue to enjoy the channel, Carl
Yep exactly with the seat, the raised centersection of the seat is a big problem.
This one change made a big improvement for me. Carl
Great tips, thanks! I have the low seat on my 1200s Touring, and thankfully it's been perfect for me (5'1!", but with short legs) from the start and I haven't had to do the searching around that you have. Had similar turbulence issues with screens - after trying a few (the Touring original looks like the Pope's hat and is about as effective as a screen) I have stuck with an MRA Vario, which still isn't great. Have ordered a WRS shorty - summer's here anyway and it looks better :)
Cheers!
The WRS short version is what I use almost... all the time for clean turbulence free rides. Every one is different but it looks and works great for me. Carl
Just a heads-up for other viewers; sadly Touratech don't appear to offer that seat any longer in the UK/EU (although their Vietnam site still has it listed). Just when I thought I'd found the solution to my coccyx getting numb..... 🤦♂️
Hi Gareth, thank you for letting the other viewers know. I hope you find one because it changed my experience completely. Good luck... Carl
Agree on comfort and the seat is terrible for me as well. I replaced both of mine with the Seargent Seat standard height.
Hi Michael, thankyou for your comments, I did look at the Sargent seats but they are no very easy to get here in Germany. I'm glad your happy with your seats. Carl
I've noticed with mine that if I stand while riding even at 70mph, it's quiet and smooth air flow around the helmet. While sitting it's noisier with a slight amount of buffeting, not enough to complain about for me. I've always thought about the PP screen but haven't got one yet. I've always thought the seats were the same except for the GT version. I have the 2014 s touring and still use the stock pilot seat, but I bought the comfort seat for the passenger which is the GT part. She didn't think it was better.
Hello Phil, the short screen I use is by WRS its almost exactly the same size as the PP but a lot cheaper, and available is different colours. This is what I use once summer is here, I prefer less noise and more airflow. And some how feel more connected to the bike and journey with the shorter screen.
Thankyou for your comments best wishes Carl
Unrelated to the topics you covered, but I noticed your gps/phone mount. I'm looking for something similar. Do you mind sharing some details, pros, cons, etc? Thanks!
Hi Jeff, no problem and welcome to the channel. 👍
The gps mount came from Navihalter.de. also available at Navihalter.eu. and I think it was 90€ . I found it works very well with both the standard screen and the short pikes peak screen. I did not use it as a phone mount only for Gps devices. But its flexi mounting allows both types.
Sturdy and well made with plenty of adjustment 👍.
Best wishes Carl
@@justthewayitis thank you Carl, that information definitely helps!
No problem Jeff 👍
hey, i am considering buying an MTS 1200. Thanks a lot for such precise information. Now I have MTS 1000DS, I still love it;) But if I get a well-groomed 1200 ... - who knows.
let me know when you get the 1200, thank-you for the comment, Carl
How was the pikes peak seat compared to the regular touring seats?
Hi the PP was better than the original seat in terms of comfort, but the Touratech seat has a dip in the middle for your coccyx bone (tail bone) which for me transforms the comfort to a very high level.
Brilliant seat if you can find one.
Hope that helps
Carl 🙋🏻♂️
Hi,can you tell me how tall are you? I have a MRA vario touring screen on my multi,but as time passes i am starting to dislike it. It is wobbly at higher speeds and i don't like the look of it,it doesnt fit flush with the bike.
Hi Cvac, 1,83M / 6ft tall 🙋🏻♂️
Yes!
Hi Sam, I presume "yes" your happy to have found the channel. Smile. Carl
You are a Legend.
Their is a pair on ebay in the uk. Just type "Ducati Multistrada 1200 2014 Crash Bars"
Looks like they need painting but these are the ones. Carl
Part numbers you need for the original ones can be found here.
www.bike-parts-ducati.com/ducati-motorcycle/Multistrada/2013/Multistrada_1200_S_GT/Multistrada-1200-S-GT/ACCESSORIES/372/2319/0/372
Best wishes Carl
thanks
Your welcome
nothing about the passenger seat then?
Hi Mark, no complaints from my wife, only positive comments about its comfort over short and long rides. I did ask her if we should try something different... but she said no.. its great and I'm very happy with it. I think Sargent Seats used to offer a passenger seat option, but I'm not aware of any other brands.
Best wishes Carl