Ducati Multistrada V4S review, first ride: Is this the ultimate do-it-all dream ADV?

The Multistrada V4 S is Ducati’s claim that a true long-distance motorcycle should be just as smart as it is fast. On paper, it reads like a touring guide: a 1,158cc V4 Granturismo engine, a full suite of electronics, semi-active Ohlins suspension, and comfortable ergonomics for long rides. When you ride the V4 S, it feels like a sports bike that knows how to behave. It’s sharp when you want it to be, but easygoing when you’re just out for a leisurely ride. It’s the kind of bike that makes you believe you can enjoy both twisty backroads and long straight highways with equal ease.

Ducati hasn’t made a drastic change with the 2025 Multistrada V4 S; it’s more of a careful update than a complete overhaul. The most significant updates are practical: cylinder deactivation now works at low speeds, not just when the bike is on idle. This can cut fuel use by about six per cent, which should make for a noticeable difference during long rides and city traffic. Ducati also included an automatic lowering feature that drops the seat height by about 20-30mm at slow speeds. This helps shorter riders feel more confident when their feet are on the ground and makes city navigation easier. Visually, the bike has cleaner LED lighting with better cornering light mapping and a sharper nose inspired by the Panigale, giving the front end a more modern look. The electronics have also been upgraded.

The 2025 version reworks the suspension logic with a Skyhook EVO approach and improves how the Ducati Vehicle Observer interacts with the braking system. This means better responses in mixed conditions, whether you’re on winding B-roads or rough firebreaks. The S model retains the semi-active Ohlins components and rider modes, making it easy to adjust the bike for luggage, a passenger, or different surfaces. If you had a 2024 V4 S, you’ll find nothing here feels unfamiliar, but these changes quietly enhance confidence and efficiency.

Hop on, and the V4 Granturismo engine welcomes you with a strong pull and a surprisingly smooth tune when you’re gentle on the throttle. The peak numbers are familiar, around 170bhp and 124Nm, but the real difference is in the feel: the power comes on smoothly and evenly. This makes the V4 S less of a wild ride and more of a reliable partner for overtaking and long highway stretches. Open it up, and it’s still a Ducati, sharp, energetic, and ready to rev. Out of all riding modes, ‘Sport’ felt like the most natural in terms of power delivery, and ‘Urban’ and ‘Wet’ provided an easier approach to all that power. The ergonomics are designed for comfort: tall, steady, and laid-back. Long hours in the saddle show the V4 S’ true purpose: covering distance without wearing out the rider. The semi-active hlins suspension does a fantastic job of absorbing sharp bumps while keeping the chassis steady. The bike feels stable, which encourages speed on curves and helps the rider navigate rough road surfaces. The automatic lowering feature is a nice touch for city traffic and tight turns; it doesn’t change the bike’s character, but it makes it easier to live with.

The handling strikes a balance for an adventure-tourer that wants to be sporty. At speed, the V4 S feels compact and responsive, letting you steer, lean, and trust the machine. The steering is direct but not sensitive; the overall weight distribution makes it easy to change direction quickly. The semi-active suspension helps here by smoothing out bumps mid-turn and keeping the geometry stable, which helps maintain a consistent line and confidence when you push it. If you enjoy mountain roads, the Multistrada rewards precision. On dirt or rough surfaces, it remains forgiving. The V4 S shows its touring nature when loaded; high speeds and luggage don’t throw it off balance. The refined front end and improved fairing do a good job of minimising wind buffeting, even with a passenger. Weight is still a factor; Ducati lists the wet weight of the S model at 232kg, but the weight distribution makes it feel lighter than the numbers suggest. However, this isn’t an aspect that just goes away due to superior engineering. Compared to the BMW GS 1300, it does feel on the heftier side.

Performance is a Ducati strong suit, and the V4 S doesn’t disappoint. The 1,158cc V4 is plenty powerful, delivering a hefty midrange punch and a top end that rewards spirited riding. The transmission and quickshifter operate smoothly; at high speeds, the V4 S feels stable and composed. The extended cylinder deactivation offers an additional perk, smoother low-speed handling and better fuel efficiency without taking away from the exciting ride. Braking on the V4 S is exceptional, with Brembo components with refined ABS maps that work seamlessly with the bike’s electronics. The integration of the Ducati Vehicle Observer and advanced braking strategies means that ABS intervention is minimal but effective; the bike slows down smoothly, whether you’re braking in a turn or reducing speed from high speeds. The built-in rider aids (cornering ABS, traction control, slide control) are well-tuned and provide help without making you feel overly restricted. In short, the V4 S stops just as well as it accelerates.

Let’s be honest, this isn’t a budget motorcycle; Ducati sets the price of the Multistrada V4 S at a premium (in India, it sits right in the middle of the entire Multistrada range, which roughly costs between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 40 lakh). You pay for the engineering, electronics, and the unique blend of sport and comfort. If your riding includes daily commutes, weekend twisties, and longer touring trips, the V4 S feels like the perfect all-around bike that will keep you happy and satisfied. If you live in one of the many crowded cities with narrow roads and parking challenges, the weight and size will remind you that it is still a serious motorcycle. All in all, the Multistrada V4 S definitely left a lasting impression, one that felt unique and special.

Verdict

The Ducati Multistrada V4 S is an impressive balance: a sports-focused V4 that knows how to be accommodating. It combines a characterful engine, top-notch electronics, and suspension that adjusts smoothly. The 2025 updates, cylinder deactivation, automatic lowering, and improved suspension logic make the bike more user-friendly without dulling its spirit. Yes, it is expensive and substantial, and the price tag can be hard to swallow. Don’t forget, this is an Italian tourer with a superbike heart that looks as fast as it goes. That is if you can digest the price tag.

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