I downsized to the standard V2 (not the S) which has been brilliant for two-up touring and considerably more comfortable than the three massive GS’s it supersedes. I’m not keen on gizmos hence the decision to keep the bike in simple trim and less to faff with. The power is more than adequate but what really stands out is its lightness and agility. My only criticism is the screen which generates considerable buffeting at motorway speeds but can be easily replaced. As for an engaging ride, this appears to polarise opinion but I’ve found it an absolute blast riding it with gusto. The V2 is NOT a dull ride! Overall, it’s a well-balanced package for riding on real world roads.
I didn't try the original 950 which the V2 is based upon. The ergonomics was one of the areas Ducati wanted to improve, so I'd be surprised the 950 had more room. The V2 is more than ample!
I had the 950 which isn't too dissimilar. I found that, on my own it was excellent but with a passenger, who isn't particularly heavy, it was a bit, dare I say - underpowered
I Just Bought This Bike In Grey, I absolutely love it, I have only done 1000 miles on it so far, It checked all the boxes For me. I love the styling of it as well. It’s a great bike to Do a nice day trip up to the Mountains , handles superbly. I also Own 2018 K1600b and 2013 Harley Street Glide. It’s a Fun Bike in my opinion.
Owned my grey V2s from new in March, 7500 miles later inc a trip to Italy I love it. Handles brilliantly, all the toys you need, all day comfort, lightweight. What more do you need 😎👍
On a day this past January my local Ducati shop let me take out a demo multi V2S, demo multi V4S, and a fairly low mileage (only 4k-5k) '17 multi 1200s that they got as a trade in. I was on my own recognizance on A and B roads. I liked them all and fir me the general takeaways were: V4 is hugely competent and generated very easy speed over the winding and sometimes patchey roads due to the power and suspension; the 1200s was also fast and the flat spot did not seem to be an issue and I think I liked the 17" front wheel or maybe I'm just prejudiced; the V2 was a step below in oomf if you focus on winding the bike out and paying attention to remembering to the V4's power. I didn't totally jell with the V4 myself however. I liked it, and it undoubtedly covers ground most rapidly, but it was the least appealing to me of the three, emotionally speaking, fir sone reason. I think I even preferred a 2019 BMW 1000XR I rented when I was in Australia some years ago. I think I'd choose the V2 for the following reasons, which won't apply to others: I don't enjoy riding on dual carriageways, motorways, or freeways ( as I call them as a an American transplanted in N. Ireland 😂), so the V2 power is fully adequate for the roads I want to ride on. Plus I know that I get used to whatever power a bike has and there are more important aspects. I am convinced now, as this video mentioned, that electronically- adjusting suspension is a great feature. I currently ride an '18 Duc Supersport and I can understand the take on the 937cc motor that it could be described as subdued in comparison to some other bikes, but I like its character and the fact that a mere mortal can ring it out on occasion. It would have more than enough power on dirt I think since the entire off pavement mefium-large adventure bike thing is an exercise in restraint and compromise that I cannot describe as "fun". I get the "I am unstoppable" ethos, and that's cool. The touring-capableness and ability to link pavement by dirt is appealing, but being an MX track play rider in the 1970-80s and a single track trail rider up until 2017 when I sold my KTM 250xcw and demo-ed BMW GSs and KTM adventure Rs in the local desert one winter about 5 years ago, it baffled me why one would purposely bother seeking out dirt on a 500++ pound bike. Well, the beauty of scooters is that their use us idiosyncratic to each of us. If I had to replace my Supersport I'd lean towards a multi V2S.
20k kms on my 2021 950S. It has been flawless, not one issue. My biggest gripe with the bike has to do with ergos due to the bowl shape of the saddle. No room to move fore and aft in the saddle which causes discomfort on longer rides. The Ducati comfort seat is an improvement, gets me another couple hours in the saddle, but I still wish it was a flatter profile. The revised V2 saddle setup has remedied this, which is nice but doesn't help me as the V2 set is not compatible with the 950. Next would be the quickshifter. It's a little rough. So bad that I only use it from 3rd up. And sometimes the blipper puts the transmission into a false neutral, so I rarely use either. Re the windshield noise: buffeting was pretty bad in stock form but after installing a screen visor and screen spacers it's now very quiet. And anyone wanting to run a phone/satnav mount on either the 950 or V2 needs to pick up the Evotec mount. It places one's device above the dash on a very clean aluminum mount. Looks factory, love it. It's not cheap but worth every penny IMO. Luggage: I manage to get my size M Arai Corsair helmet in the left side pannier, but I could see some larger helmets not fitting. The fuel cap / key issue is not so bad if your key is handy. I wear mine around my neck on a lanyard, barely know it's there. But if it really is a bother, there is a keyless fuel cap accessory. My preference would be for the bike to be keyed...I'm on my third keyless bike and still prefer parking the key in the ignition. I don't know why your exhaust looks so bad, mine is still shiny without corrosion after 20,000 kms. Overall it's been a very reliable do-it-all bike, but there are days when I wish for another 20 hp. Having said that, I chose this over the 1260S which I had for a week to try while my Triumph was in for service, yet I preferred the 950.
Agree with your No1 dislike! I rode the v2 multi and it didn’t excite me and I wouldn’t chop in my Honda CBR650R for one! It’s a beautiful well screwed together thing but the V2 in that just kept running out of revs and hitting the limiter without ever really feeling much in the way of extra power! The v2 Panigale was something else though! What a machine, it’s quite wristy and very hot under the seat in town but it excited every fibre in me even on a 40 minute ride accompanied ride on Ducati Sheffield test day! Even more so when the dealer let me have it for half a day! What an absolute Joy even if my wrists weren’t happy after three hours riding it!
A really interesting review. I got my grey V2S in April and overall love it. It is plenty quick and characterful enough for me, but I accept that my expectation may be different. I agree with most of the comments, but would add that I find the new mirrors excellent - good view and rarely any vibration. I am not so keen on the seat, which I don't find particularly comfortable. On the criticism of the display being too busy, has Michael tried the "City" mode, which reduces the information displayed (and gives a bigger clock)? For me, the bike is easy to cruise around on, but also does have a "naughty" side when you want to have fun - it always puts a smile on my face, whether by being discrete and just getting on with it, or by allowing me to really enjoy its performance and handling.
After three GSs I ‘downsized’ to a V2S, honest opinion is that it is a very underrated bike which is so much fun to ride. Handling superb, love the suspension and so comfortable yet quick. Perfect power to weight ratio for the road and I love the looks…just needs the uprated dash in the next update though it’s adequate for the job. It’s not a adventure bike it’s a tall sports tourer. Regarding exhaust corrosion I covered the pipes with an Evotech engine cover and they’re fine, fuel cap is it really an issue? Sorry guys I think you’re a bit over critical…
Easy fix for fuel cap... Tick the box for electronic release. Key can stay in your pocket. Admittedly, more cost, but much less annoying. Great review chaps. Cheers.
In 2004 my wife picked a Multistrada when I took her out to select a two up rig. I thought the thing was hideous. But that's what she wanted. All this time later the thing is still a great bike to ride. The industry has so embraced hideous that the old Multistrada looks pretty good by comparison now days. I like the engine so much that I bought a super low miles 2012 Hypermotard EVO SP Corse last year just to have a fresh Ducati air cooled two valver around. From the sounds of this review. I really don't think I am going to need a new two up bike anytime soon. The 900 Tracer is a very similar bike to ride. But I get enough whine from the pillion. I don't need and engine that does it constantly.
Bland? I can only speak for the 950S as a long term owner but find the bike’s got plenty of character at higher revs, it just doesn’t lend itself to being ridden lazily. Intriguingly the video suggested the V2S had a few upgrades over the 950S but didn’t really divulge - is the quickshifter a little less clunky, the fuelling a little smoother, the brakes not quite so mushy, do the mirrors still vibrate and blur the rear view at almost any speed? These have been my main gripes at this high price point of an otherwise great machine. Two other observations puzzled me: no keyless tank? available as a optional extra and my full face XL helmet does fit in the left hand (full volume) pannier on the 950S.
I just swapped my Monster R (after 3 glorious years) for the V2S, needed something that would allow all day riding without pain for an aging body, 4-season rideable and would take me out over longer distances. Haven't had it long, but I find it armchair comfortable, 50mpg, highly flickable and to all intents (the way I ride it) just as quick as the R, for example in overtaking. Feels like a Swiss Army knife in that it does everything well. I don't hang about either. Interesting to compare this review with those of every magazine/channel at launch - I watched them all multiple times before buying - they all - inc the venerable Mr Neaves - rated it as exceptional. A strange, nitpicking review I think from someone who doesn't like the marque.
Blimey , what a downbeat, negative review that was of such an impressive bike!!!! I followed and enjoyed your vlogs of Monster and MS from a couple of years ago. Please do an update on what you have found (pros and cons) now that you have switched to the MS. How have you found the screen? Still got stock screen? Did you get any luggage for the Monster, tailbag ? Rucksack? I’m torn between monster and MS. Main concerns are do I need to carry luggage, could I cope with screen
I have enjoyed your videos so far, and am delighted to read your now a fellow Ms V2S owner. I look forward to hearing how you get on with yours as I am delighted with mine 🙂
@@Alan_Anderson Hi Alan, a quite different machine! First film is in the can with initial impressions. Glad you're enjoying the channel. I was surprised by this review. It felt like it was thrown together at the last minute without prep. Interestingly, it seems to be the only review for 950S or V2S that is negative. Must be honest even after a short time I love it.
I have ridden both the V2 and V4 multi-Strada and agree that whilst competent these styles of bike, I guess A.D. V multipurpose flavour motorcycles,just don’t pack in the level of excitement and engagement I’m looking for in motorcycling. I know it’s horses for courses however trying to please all the people all the time creates compromises which is the antithesis of excitement in motorcycling.
You can fix the exhaust corrosion very easy. Ever since i did mine with brasso and fine wire wheel it came up mint and hasnt re corroded again. Its kept it finish. Took about a hour. I can also get my helmet in the side pan no probs. Large shoie. Proper quad lock front and centre above the dash mounts are available.
I find it interesting that people complain about having to use a key to unlock the fuel cap. You have to dig out your wallet to pay for the fuel and that is much more difficult than removing the key and opening the fuel cap.
It's fascinating to me that pretty much anytime a motorcycle is described as "competent" (and you can add any qualifier in front of that like "incredibly"), it almost always is also later called dull or something the like. And I fully agree. If I wanted something competent, I wouldn't be on a motorcycle. There's certainly a baseline of competence any bike needs to have, but it's the quirks and the irrational bits that make them entertaining and special. Unrelated: I absolutely do not get how someone can describe the Multistrada as good looking, but I guess looks are always a matter of preference. It's one of the ugliest motorcycles of recent years to me. And that's quite the statement when the '22 MT-10 exists :D Sincerely, an MT-10 SP ('19) rider.
Sometimes people need a competent motorcycle. If I'm doing a cross country tour, I want something competent. Character starts to get annoying after the 2nd or 3rd breakdown. Different strokes, different folks. All bike looks are subjective. That explains how KTM is still in business
I have the same complaint about the wrists hurting and realized it was the angle/ sweep of the handlebars. I changed the handlebars to a more comfortable profile and no more aching wrists.
I am switching front a brand new tiger 1200. To this Ducati v2s, I can say the information os dashboard it's not an issue, the tiger have an 7 inch display, bu tô access critical information you have to memorize all the navigation commands to see what you want to see, on the fly it's very annoying. To have mosto of the information you need it pretty awesome in my point of view. I actually missed the old LCD display during this period
It’s honestly amazing how the MV Agusta Turismo Veloce is probably Britain’s most overlooked bike. The 2015 launch model - yep 8 years ago - is on a par (or better) spec wise compared to this Ducati. A strictly tarmac only tall rounder with 17” front wheel, characterful MV 800 triple, suspension & handling an MTS would die for, cruise control, LED lights, up and down quick shifter and brilliantly, panniers that are much bigger at 35 litres & more practical than others yet the overall width is the same as the handlebars. Perfect for filtering and touring. It’s been quite well developed since launch - better screen, industry first Rekluse based clutchless gearbox, loads of refinements. Reliability is decent - mine is at least as good as the KTMs & Ducatis I’ve had in the past. The only problem is finding a decent service point. And you can get a one owner model with less than 10K miles for Tracer 900 money. Crazy…
I'm currently looking at trading down my 1290 sas for a v2s I was looking at MV brutale years back as they are so sexy never crossed my mind they would do a tourer just looked them up think ill have to test ride one now Thanks
I have the 950S and there are various display modes to show less stuff. I keep it on the busy display as I like a lot of info 😅 I'm relatively new to riding and I am blown away with this bike. I think part of the appeal is the stealthy pulling away with no drama, it just glides away into the distance, (and sounds great once the full sound is unlocked at higher revs). There should be an option to NOT have a fuel gauge though, as they only seem to last a few thousand miles then blink at you continuously as if the tank is always empty. Common fault and only option is to replace with the same part that's doomed to fail again. Trip meter to the rescue! 😅
I wondered about real world range and maintenance costs. The character of the engine seems a paramount attribute to me with a motorcycle, and the long term take-away message was it's "bland"-ish, which surprised me. I think I heard him say it chuffs along nicely in its groove on the highway?
I have a Supersport 950 and would like a quicker bike. I wish this bike had the superquadro engine from the Panigale V2. The V4S is laughably expensive but the V2 is not fast enough. Feels like I'm just buying the same bike with different clothes. I want to buy another Ducati but now I'm looking at the S1000XR. First world problems, I know.
I have also a supersport 950s and with termi /upmap / mintake and lighter wheels more as enough fast for the road. I have also a streetfighter sp2, for the road and Touring supersport without question….for the track of course the street
The two Titans of MCN surprised me by saying the Multistrada V2S is a bit dull! I quite fancied one of those, having ridden a 1200 Multistrada at Peterborough a few years ago, but I'll take one out for a test ride anyway. Ducati servicing costs scare the heck out of me though, after getting charged over £1000 to service a Monster 900ie.
It is not dull compared to the Tracers, Versys, and Tigers of the world. Euro 5 has done a number on all post 2020 bikes and the dulling down is a byproduct on all bikes. Decat it and you will hear the beast in all of its glory.
Can't say that I agree with a few of the points made. The screen is awful with lots of buffeting. On the other hand, the panniers are fine and you can easily fit a helmet in the left one. Lovely bike though.
A couple of items I'll add. 1 - On a hot day I'd like to get little move wind to cool me off. The wind screen blocks a lot of wind even in the low position. (I'm 6'1") On a cold day it's perfect. 2 - The head lights are too bright, even in low beam all the other drivers are flashing me to dim my lights. People who I am following often get pissed off and I don't tailgate. 3 - The man in the video must have a huge head and a huge helmet. I can get size large Nolan helmets into the left pannier and the top case. (both are Ducati factory offerings)
Grab a set of Iconic Parts screen spacers. They create a gap and angle the screen slightly more vertical reducing buffeting and opens up a path for wind to cool the rider. They also get rid of the forward suction felt by the rider at higher speeds. Awesome invention. If you look at the V4 screen, it is spaced so Ducati must have figured it out for that bike.
No Main difference is the electronic suspension adjustment it’s a different shock (not Ohlins) and manual adjustment for the v2 and the V2S gets the electronic adjusted Ohlins.
I disagree with your assessment of the dash, it's clean and needed information is present especially in the 800 to 950 class. And most new bikes do not have back lit switches in this class!
This video just confirms what a great bike the Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak is. The 1260 PP weighs about the same as this V2 but should handles a lot better because of the light forged Marchesini wheels and the plush Ohlins suspension. It's unfortunate that we rarely see, if ever, a professional old vs new comparison. I would like to see a Head 2Head 1260PP vs V4PP.
Hi your arm / wrist ache is not you it is the height of the bars I found the same when I bought my multistrada having never had it with any other bike and coming from a vstrom .also I bought a ram mount bolt just take one of bar clamp bolts out and put it in its place cheap and easy. And last but not least I can get 72 mpg with wife on the back and I think I would soon get fed up filled the v4 multistrada up at 35 mpg ridden hard I still get 60 mpg .
Can't Ducati make an exhaust manifold pipe that doesn't actually look as rusty as a cheap Chinese special. Terrible for an expensive bike and I also include the more expensive 1260 models. My 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX cost a lot less than these Ducati models and the build quality looks far superior. Oh, and you could have given your bike a wash before this review as it looks like a right old nail!
Interesting how a long term review amplifies reality. The original first ride review raved on about this bike. But, now it seems, for the money, you get to pay considerably less, and get the same utility, more fun, ok, less the fancy electronics, with a Japanese bike, say, like the Versys 650. And, we ride bikes to get the job done in the most enjoyable way, economically, don't we!??
I downsized to the standard V2 (not the S) which has been brilliant for two-up touring and considerably more comfortable than the three massive GS’s it supersedes. I’m not keen on gizmos hence the decision to keep the bike in simple trim and less to faff with. The power is more than adequate but what really stands out is its lightness and agility. My only criticism is the screen which generates considerable buffeting at motorway speeds but can be easily replaced. As for an engaging ride, this appears to polarise opinion but I’ve found it an absolute blast riding it with gusto. The V2 is NOT a dull ride! Overall, it’s a well-balanced package for riding on real world roads.
Hi what screen have you gone for
I'd recommend the Puig touring screen with adjustable visor but any of the taller screens will be a big improvement on the stock unit.
I didn't try the original 950 which the V2 is based upon. The ergonomics was one of the areas Ducati wanted to improve, so I'd be surprised the 950 had more room. The V2 is more than ample!
@will M of course but you have the option to adjust the seat higher than standard on the V2, simply by swapping out the spacer pads under the seat.
I had the 950 which isn't too dissimilar. I found that, on my own it was excellent but with a passenger, who isn't particularly heavy, it was a bit, dare I say - underpowered
Best Sports Adventure Tourer that money can buy. 9/10 in all departments.
I Just Bought This Bike In Grey, I absolutely love it, I have only done 1000 miles on it so far, It checked all the boxes For me. I love the styling of it as well. It’s a great bike to Do a nice day trip up to the Mountains , handles superbly. I also Own 2018 K1600b and 2013 Harley Street Glide. It’s a Fun Bike in my opinion.
Owned my grey V2s from new in March, 7500 miles later inc a trip to Italy I love it. Handles brilliantly, all the toys you need, all day comfort, lightweight. What more do you need 😎👍
On a day this past January my local Ducati shop let me take out a demo multi V2S, demo multi V4S, and a fairly low mileage (only 4k-5k) '17 multi 1200s that they got as a trade in. I was on my own recognizance on A and B roads. I liked them all and fir me the general takeaways were: V4 is hugely competent and generated very easy speed over the winding and sometimes patchey roads due to the power and suspension; the 1200s was also fast and the flat spot did not seem to be an issue and I think I liked the 17" front wheel or maybe I'm just prejudiced; the V2 was a step below in oomf if you focus on winding the bike out and paying attention to remembering to the V4's power. I didn't totally jell with the V4 myself however. I liked it, and it undoubtedly covers ground most rapidly, but it was the least appealing to me of the three, emotionally speaking, fir sone reason. I think I even preferred a 2019 BMW 1000XR I rented when I was in Australia some years ago. I think I'd choose the V2 for the following reasons, which won't apply to others: I don't enjoy riding on dual carriageways, motorways, or freeways ( as I call them as a an American transplanted in N. Ireland 😂), so the V2 power is fully adequate for the roads I want to ride on. Plus I know that I get used to whatever power a bike has and there are more important aspects. I am convinced now, as this video mentioned, that electronically- adjusting suspension is a great feature. I currently ride an '18 Duc Supersport and I can understand the take on the 937cc motor that it could be described as subdued in comparison to some other bikes, but I like its character and the fact that a mere mortal can ring it out on occasion. It would have more than enough power on dirt I think since the entire off pavement mefium-large adventure bike thing is an exercise in restraint and compromise that I cannot describe as "fun". I get the "I am unstoppable" ethos, and that's cool. The touring-capableness and ability to link pavement by dirt is appealing, but being an MX track play rider in the 1970-80s and a single track trail rider up until 2017 when I sold my KTM 250xcw and demo-ed BMW GSs and KTM adventure Rs in the local desert one winter about 5 years ago, it baffled me why one would purposely bother seeking out dirt on a 500++ pound bike. Well, the beauty of scooters is that their use us idiosyncratic to each of us. If I had to replace my Supersport I'd lean towards a multi V2S.
Love mine... came from a GS and much more at home in this. Does everything well.
20k kms on my 2021 950S. It has been flawless, not one issue. My biggest gripe with the bike has to do with ergos due to the bowl shape of the saddle. No room to move fore and aft in the saddle which causes discomfort on longer rides. The Ducati comfort seat is an improvement, gets me another couple hours in the saddle, but I still wish it was a flatter profile. The revised V2 saddle setup has remedied this, which is nice but doesn't help me as the V2 set is not compatible with the 950. Next would be the quickshifter. It's a little rough. So bad that I only use it from 3rd up. And sometimes the blipper puts the transmission into a false neutral, so I rarely use either. Re the windshield noise: buffeting was pretty bad in stock form but after installing a screen visor and screen spacers it's now very quiet. And anyone wanting to run a phone/satnav mount on either the 950 or V2 needs to pick up the Evotec mount. It places one's device above the dash on a very clean aluminum mount. Looks factory, love it. It's not cheap but worth every penny IMO. Luggage: I manage to get my size M Arai Corsair helmet in the left side pannier, but I could see some larger helmets not fitting. The fuel cap / key issue is not so bad if your key is handy. I wear mine around my neck on a lanyard, barely know it's there. But if it really is a bother, there is a keyless fuel cap accessory. My preference would be for the bike to be keyed...I'm on my third keyless bike and still prefer parking the key in the ignition. I don't know why your exhaust looks so bad, mine is still shiny without corrosion after 20,000 kms. Overall it's been a very reliable do-it-all bike, but there are days when I wish for another 20 hp. Having said that, I chose this over the 1260S which I had for a week to try while my Triumph was in for service, yet I preferred the 950.
Agree with your No1 dislike!
I rode the v2 multi and it didn’t excite me and I wouldn’t chop in my Honda CBR650R for one!
It’s a beautiful well screwed together thing but the V2 in that just kept running out of revs and hitting the limiter without ever really feeling much in the way of extra power!
The v2 Panigale was something else though!
What a machine, it’s quite wristy and very hot under the seat in town but it excited every fibre in me even on a 40 minute ride accompanied ride on Ducati Sheffield test day!
Even more so when the dealer let me have it for half a day!
What an absolute Joy even if my wrists weren’t happy after three hours riding it!
I loved the suspension, really amazing, but after my test ride I was, meh about the 'fun factor'.
A really interesting review. I got my grey V2S in April and overall love it. It is plenty quick and characterful enough for me, but I accept that my expectation may be different. I agree with most of the comments, but would add that I find the new mirrors excellent - good view and rarely any vibration. I am not so keen on the seat, which I don't find particularly comfortable. On the criticism of the display being too busy, has Michael tried the "City" mode, which reduces the information displayed (and gives a bigger clock)? For me, the bike is easy to cruise around on, but also does have a "naughty" side when you want to have fun - it always puts a smile on my face, whether by being discrete and just getting on with it, or by allowing me to really enjoy its performance and handling.
After three GSs I ‘downsized’ to a V2S, honest opinion is that it is a very underrated bike which is so much fun to ride. Handling superb, love the suspension and so comfortable yet quick. Perfect power to weight ratio for the road and I love the looks…just needs the uprated dash in the next update though it’s adequate for the job. It’s not a adventure bike it’s a tall sports tourer. Regarding exhaust corrosion I covered the pipes with an Evotech engine cover and they’re fine, fuel cap is it really an issue? Sorry guys I think you’re a bit over
critical…
Easy fix for fuel cap... Tick the box for electronic release. Key can stay in your pocket. Admittedly, more cost, but much less annoying. Great review chaps. Cheers.
In 2004 my wife picked a Multistrada when I took her out to select a two up rig. I thought the thing was hideous. But that's what she wanted. All this time later the thing is still a great bike to ride. The industry has so embraced hideous that the old Multistrada looks pretty good by comparison now days. I like the engine so much that I bought a super low miles 2012 Hypermotard EVO SP Corse last year just to have a fresh Ducati air cooled two valver around. From the sounds of this review. I really don't think I am going to need a new two up bike anytime soon. The 900 Tracer is a very similar bike to ride. But I get enough whine from the pillion. I don't need and engine that does it constantly.
Bland? I can only speak for the 950S as a long term owner but find the bike’s got plenty of character at higher revs, it just doesn’t lend itself to being ridden lazily. Intriguingly the video suggested the V2S had a few upgrades over the 950S but didn’t really divulge - is the quickshifter a little less clunky, the fuelling a little smoother, the brakes not quite so mushy, do the mirrors still vibrate and blur the rear view at almost any speed? These have been my main gripes at this high price point of an otherwise great machine. Two other observations puzzled me: no keyless tank? available as a optional extra and my full face XL helmet does fit in the left hand (full volume) pannier on the 950S.
I just swapped my Monster R (after 3 glorious years) for the V2S, needed something that would allow all day riding without pain for an aging body, 4-season rideable and would take me out over longer distances. Haven't had it long, but I find it armchair comfortable, 50mpg, highly flickable and to all intents (the way I ride it) just as quick as the R, for example in overtaking. Feels like a Swiss Army knife in that it does everything well. I don't hang about either. Interesting to compare this review with those of every magazine/channel at launch - I watched them all multiple times before buying - they all - inc the venerable Mr Neaves - rated it as exceptional.
A strange, nitpicking review I think from someone who doesn't like the marque.
Blimey , what a downbeat, negative review that was of such an impressive bike!!!!
I followed and enjoyed your vlogs of Monster and MS from a couple of years ago.
Please do an update on what you have found (pros and cons) now that you have switched to the MS.
How have you found the screen? Still got stock screen?
Did you get any luggage for the Monster, tailbag ? Rucksack?
I’m torn between monster and MS. Main concerns are do I need to carry luggage, could I cope with screen
@@beverleynorth4914 Hi Bev, will do. First impressions video is in the can!
@@Back2TheBike looking forward to it
I have enjoyed your videos so far, and am delighted to read your now a fellow Ms V2S owner. I look forward to hearing how you get on with yours as I am delighted with mine 🙂
@@Alan_Anderson Hi Alan, a quite different machine! First film is in the can with initial impressions. Glad you're enjoying the channel. I was surprised by this review. It felt like it was thrown together at the last minute without prep. Interestingly, it seems to be the only review for 950S or V2S that is negative. Must be honest even after a short time I love it.
I have ridden both the V2 and V4 multi-Strada and agree that whilst competent these styles of bike, I guess A.D. V multipurpose flavour motorcycles,just don’t pack in the level of excitement and engagement I’m looking for in motorcycling. I know it’s horses for courses however trying to please all the people all the time creates compromises which is the antithesis of excitement in motorcycling.
Had one since March. Would agree with most of the comments, but there`s no rust on my exhaust and I ticked the box for the optional keyless fuel cap 🙂
Weird though to have to pay extra.
I liked the original Multistrada, too. The best early bike if this type was the Buell XB12X Ulysses. It still probably is one of them.
Good video.
You can fix the exhaust corrosion very easy. Ever since i did mine with brasso and fine wire wheel it came up mint and hasnt re corroded again. Its kept it finish. Took about a hour.
I can also get my helmet in the side pan no probs. Large shoie.
Proper quad lock front and centre above the dash mounts are available.
I find it interesting that people complain about having to use a key to unlock the fuel cap. You have to dig out your wallet to pay for the fuel and that is much more difficult than removing the key and opening the fuel cap.
Great bike, I have the 950S. Only issues are the transmission is a little quirky and the ease of maintenance. Other than that, it's been flawless.
I agree the first Gen have ages well. I’ve just bought a 2013 plate with only 13000miles in it . A lot of bike for the money now.
I bought a 950s , they will deliver it this weekend ! I hope i make a lot of happy miles.
Even I got a Mts950s today... best of luck
A lot in this to unpack. But really helpful to consider and reflect upon before I tested one. So very relatable. 👍
What a great interview.. more like this please
I test rode one and it did not excite or engage me either.... I really wanted to love it right off the bat
It's fascinating to me that pretty much anytime a motorcycle is described as "competent" (and you can add any qualifier in front of that like "incredibly"), it almost always is also later called dull or something the like. And I fully agree.
If I wanted something competent, I wouldn't be on a motorcycle. There's certainly a baseline of competence any bike needs to have, but it's the quirks and the irrational bits that make them entertaining and special.
Unrelated: I absolutely do not get how someone can describe the Multistrada as good looking, but I guess looks are always a matter of preference. It's one of the ugliest motorcycles of recent years to me. And that's quite the statement when the '22 MT-10 exists :D
Sincerely, an MT-10 SP ('19) rider.
Sometimes people need a competent motorcycle. If I'm doing a cross country tour, I want something competent. Character starts to get annoying after the 2nd or 3rd breakdown. Different strokes, different folks. All bike looks are subjective. That explains how KTM is still in business
Loved this review thanx guys
I have the same complaint about the wrists hurting and realized it was the angle/ sweep of the handlebars. I changed the handlebars to a more comfortable profile and no more aching wrists.
I am switching front a brand new tiger 1200. To this Ducati v2s, I can say the information os dashboard it's not an issue, the tiger have an 7 inch display, bu tô access critical information you have to memorize all the navigation commands to see what you want to see, on the fly it's very annoying. To have mosto of the information you need it pretty awesome in my point of view. I actually missed the old LCD display during this period
Beautiful bike
Great content with the 2 Michaels, perhaps a few more group tests with both of them in.
Long term review of the new MT-10?
Harpic would have the exhaust looking like new in 10mins. All bikes should have longer front mudguards to keep shite off of the engine/exhaust
been watching your long term reviews and i love it. however im really interested if you are going to be doing the sportster s
It’s honestly amazing how the MV Agusta Turismo Veloce is probably Britain’s most overlooked bike. The 2015 launch model - yep 8 years ago - is on a par (or better) spec wise compared to this Ducati. A strictly tarmac only tall rounder with 17” front wheel, characterful MV 800 triple, suspension & handling an MTS would die for, cruise control, LED lights, up and down quick shifter and brilliantly, panniers that are much bigger at 35 litres & more practical than others yet the overall width is the same as the handlebars. Perfect for filtering and touring. It’s been quite well developed since launch - better screen, industry first Rekluse based clutchless gearbox, loads of refinements. Reliability is decent - mine is at least as good as the KTMs & Ducatis I’ve had in the past. The only problem is finding a decent service point. And you can get a one owner model with less than 10K miles for Tracer 900 money. Crazy…
I'm currently looking at trading down my 1290 sas for a v2s
I was looking at MV brutale years back as they are so sexy never crossed my mind they would do a tourer just looked them up think ill have to test ride one now
Thanks
GREAT ! ! ! ! ! AWESOME ! ! ! ! !
It sounds like the Goldilocks solution might be the engine from the Panigale V2 and a 17 inch front wheel for upright sports touring?
I have the 950S and there are various display modes to show less stuff. I keep it on the busy display as I like a lot of info 😅
I'm relatively new to riding and I am blown away with this bike. I think part of the appeal is the stealthy pulling away with no drama, it just glides away into the distance, (and sounds great once the full sound is unlocked at higher revs).
There should be an option to NOT have a fuel gauge though, as they only seem to last a few thousand miles then blink at you continuously as if the tank is always empty. Common fault and only option is to replace with the same part that's doomed to fail again. Trip meter to the rescue! 😅
I wondered about real world range and maintenance costs. The character of the engine seems a paramount attribute to me with a motorcycle, and the long term take-away message was it's "bland"-ish, which surprised me.
I think I heard him say it chuffs along nicely in its groove on the highway?
I have a Supersport 950 and would like a quicker bike. I wish this bike had the superquadro engine from the Panigale V2. The V4S is laughably expensive but the V2 is not fast enough. Feels like I'm just buying the same bike with different clothes. I want to buy another Ducati but now I'm looking at the S1000XR. First world problems, I know.
I have also a supersport 950s and with termi /upmap / mintake and lighter wheels more as enough fast for the road. I have also a streetfighter sp2, for the road and Touring supersport without question….for the track of course the street
The two Titans of MCN surprised me by saying the Multistrada V2S is a bit dull! I quite fancied one of those, having ridden a 1200 Multistrada at Peterborough a few years ago, but I'll take one out for a test ride anyway. Ducati servicing costs scare the heck out of me though, after getting charged over £1000 to service a Monster 900ie.
It is not dull compared to the Tracers, Versys, and Tigers of the world. Euro 5 has done a number on all post 2020 bikes and the dulling down is a byproduct on all bikes. Decat it and you will hear the beast in all of its glory.
Good vid, well done.
Would you use the Dunlop’s on other adventure bikes for the same road reasons?
Can't say that I agree with a few of the points made. The screen is awful with lots of buffeting. On the other hand, the panniers are fine and you can easily fit a helmet in the left one. Lovely bike though.
KTM 990 SMT here to stay then....😁👍🏻
Ok neves, this bike or a v100 mandello for sport touring? @mcn
A couple of items I'll add. 1 - On a hot day I'd like to get little move wind to cool me off. The wind screen blocks a lot of wind even in the low position. (I'm 6'1") On a cold day it's perfect. 2 - The head lights are too bright, even in low beam all the other drivers are flashing me to dim my lights. People who I am following often get pissed off and I don't tailgate. 3 - The man in the video must have a huge head and a huge helmet. I can get size large Nolan helmets into the left pannier and the top case. (both are Ducati factory offerings)
Grab a set of Iconic Parts screen spacers. They create a gap and angle the screen slightly more vertical reducing buffeting and opens up a path for wind to cool the rider. They also get rid of the forward suction felt by the rider at higher speeds. Awesome invention. If you look at the V4 screen, it is spaced so Ducati must have figured it out for that bike.
@@mojosdad68 Sweet! Thanks for the tip Buddy.
@@Kraker-Jack 👍
Is it the S not the standard V2?
No
Main difference is the electronic suspension adjustment it’s a different shock (not Ohlins) and manual adjustment for the v2 and the V2S gets the electronic adjusted Ohlins.
@@ianwarren Thanks
So the title should say V2S
You would expect MCN to mind that small difference…
More than double the cost of my nc750. Probably worth it.
…….so what would you go for???
2 great guys and a good talk.
But 1/5 of the video is:
- "you know..."
- "yeah yeah"
AHAHA
I disagree with your assessment of the dash, it's clean and needed information is present especially in the 800 to 950 class. And most new bikes do not have back lit switches in this class!
Well I guess Im going to have to get a V4 !
This video just confirms what a great bike the Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak is.
The 1260 PP weighs about the same as this V2 but should handles a lot better because of the light forged Marchesini wheels and the plush Ohlins suspension.
It's unfortunate that we rarely see, if ever, a professional old vs new comparison.
I would like to see a Head 2Head 1260PP vs V4PP.
And double the price
Hi your arm / wrist ache is not you it is the height of the bars I found the same when I bought my multistrada having never had it with any other bike and coming from a vstrom .also I bought a ram mount bolt just take one of bar clamp bolts out and put it in its place cheap and easy. And last but not least I can get 72 mpg with wife on the back and I think I would soon get fed up filled the v4 multistrada up at 35 mpg ridden hard I still get 60 mpg .
Can't Ducati make an exhaust manifold pipe that doesn't actually look as rusty as a cheap Chinese special. Terrible for an expensive bike and I also include the more expensive 1260 models. My 2020 Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX cost a lot less than these Ducati models and the build quality looks far superior. Oh, and you could have given your bike a wash before this review as it looks like a right old nail!
My 950 exhaust is still shiny and corrosion free after 20k kms. Weird his is so bad.
A nearly 20k entry level motorcycle that doesn’t include any storage or heated grips?!? 🤭😄😂🤣😂🤣
Only Ducati😂
We know!!!😁 ✌✌✌✌
Are those headers made of tin foil?
Interesting how a long term review amplifies reality. The original first ride review raved on about this bike. But, now it seems, for the money, you get to pay considerably less, and get the same utility, more fun, ok, less the fancy electronics, with a Japanese bike, say, like the Versys 650. And, we ride bikes to get the job done in the most enjoyable way, economically, don't we!??
Cant believe I've just watched a bloke moaning about back lit buttons.The 950 won bike of the year 2 years running.Time to get real mate.
Ducati has a way of skimping in just the way you notice. For $20k. they could just get basic stuff right.
You could have washed it before putting it on camera.
First! Woo
Rust on the pipe already! Totally unacceptable!
Long term review at 2.5K miles? You didn't have to pay for desmo service yet! 😂I've done more miles in a week. 🤣
𝖕𝖗𝖔𝖒𝖔𝖘𝖒
I'd prefer a Versys 650 GT over this.
Not in the same league.
This is not a nice bike too look at!
Simple fact is your paying for the badge. This is not worth 4 to 5k more than the say yamaha tracer os z1000sx. If this bike was Japanese it be 12k
I would like to see someone gear down a V2s and put on some good dirt tires on to do a proper off road test.