Ducati has used the fourth episode of its World Première 2024 web series to present its new V4 RS with the Bologna based manufacturer saying that it is the sportiest, most sophisticated and exclusive Multistrada ever created. Produced in a numbered series, the Multistrada V4 RS is the latest addition to the family which celebrates its twentieth anniversary this year and is equipped with the Desmosedici Stradale engine, derived from that of the Panigale V4.

As well as being equipped with a Desmosedici Stradale powerplant, the Multistrada V4 RS is also equipped with a dry clutch, Akrapovič silencer, and rides on Öhlins suspension, and forged rims. In addition there’s a tuned version of the electronics package from the Multistrada V4 S including its radar technology, plus a titanium rear frame and tail unit designed especially for the RS.

Sporty style
The Ducati Multistrada V4 RS combines the unmistakable Multistrada lines with a carbon front mudguard, hand guards, heat shields and the front “beak”.
The lightweight techno-polymer tail integrates the passenger handles, while the titanium seat support frame shaves 2.5 kg of the RS’s weight compared to the standard one.
The Ducati Multistrada V4 RS is produced in a numbered series. The number is shown on a black anodized aluminium plate, embellished with the Italian flag, applied to the triple clamp.

Superbike engine
The Multistrada V4 RS is the only one in the family to adopt the 1,103 cc Desmosedici Stradale engine.
The RS adopts the air filter from the Panigale V4 R, which is more permeable , and an exhaust system with Akrapovič silencer developed specifically for the Multistrada V4 RS.
In RS guise the Desmosedici Stradale engine develops a claimed maximum power of 132kW (180hp) at 12,250rpm, versus 125kw (170hp) at 10,500rpm for the Multistrada V4 S, and 158.5kW (215.5hp) at 13,000rpm for the Panigale V4 S. The RS has a claimed maximum torque figures of 118Nm at 9500rpm, versus 125Nm at 8750rpm for the Multistrada V4 S, and, 123.6Nn at 9500rpm for the Panigale.

To make the most of the performance of the road Desmosedici, the final ratio has been shortened while keeping the gear ratios unchanged.

Finally, as on the Panigale V4 SP2 and Streetfighter V4 SP2, the Multistrada V4 RS also features a STM-EVO SBK dry clutch made from billet aluminium.

To improve thermal comfort, the Desmosedici Stradale has been designed to deactivate the rear bank when the bike is stationary, in neutral and with the engine temperature above 70°. To offer greater comfort on cooler temperatures the ducts that channel fresh air to the rider’s legs, can be closed.

The maintenance interval for checking valve clearance on the Multistrada V4 RS is every 30,000 km.

Electronics
The Multistrada V4 RS is equipped with the same electronic package of the Multistrada V4 S, which includes, among other features, standard radar technology on both the front and rear, which enables the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) functionality and Blind Spot Detection (BSD).

The electronic equipment of the Multistrada V4 RS, thanks to the information obtained from the Bosch inertial platform, is made up of 4 Power Modes (Full, High, Medium, Low), Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), Engine Brake Control (EBC) and Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) Up&Down.
All these systems have been calibrated for the characteristics and intended use of the model and integrated into four Riding Modes, namely Race, Sport, Touring, Urban.

On the V4 RS, the Full Power Mode (associated by default with the Race Riding Mode, characterized by a chequered flag above the name) is introduced for the first time in the Multistrada family; this delivers maximum power in all gears, with a prompt response from the throttle. The other Power Modes have been calibrated for use on the Multistrada V4. In particular:

  • High (associated by default with Sport Riding Mode) offers maximum power in 4th, 5th and 6th gear with a slight reduction in torque in 1st, 2nd and 3rd, with prompt throttle response.
  • Medium (associated by default with Touring Riding Mode) also offers maximum power in 4th, 5th and 6th gear, with a slight reduction in 1st, 2nd and 3rd, but with a sweeter throttle response.
  • Low (default in Urban Riding Mode) with power reduced to 84 kW (114 hp) and a smooth throttle response.

The Multistrada V4 RS is also equipped with EBC (Engine Brake Control) adjustable on three levels, which allows the rider to customize the engine braking depending on riding style and context.

The V4 RS features new graphics on the dashboard, which presents a control panel on the main screen with functionality similar to the Infomode Track of the Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4. This drop-down menu displays the levels set for DTC, ABS and DWC in the selected riding mode. Furthermore, the intervention of Ducati Traction Control and Ducati Wheelie Control is highlighted by a flashing of the corresponding drop-down element and the lighting of the upper right corner of the dashboard.

The TFT dashboard with 6.5″ screen, and dedicated Multistrada V4 RS by graphics, enables you to view the map navigator thanks to Ducati Connect, which allows you to mirror your mobile device. The smartphone compartment has forced ventilation, to cool the phone during intensive use of the navigation functions and while charging.

Chassis and ergonomics
The chassis of the Multistrada V4 RS has been developed around a 17″ front wheel, and the V4 RS uses a monocoque aluminium frame different from the Multistrada V4 S and Rally to obtain a different inclination of the steering head (25.75° compared to 24.5°) for a sportier ride, similar to what was done with the V4 Pikes Peak.
Marchesini forged aluminium wheels are used which are 2.7 kg lighter than those used on the V4 S and are wrapped in 120/70-17 and 190/55-17 Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV Corsa tyres.

Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspensions as used on the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak, has been recalibrated to obtain the best balance between comfort in relaxed riding and support in sporty riding.

The braking system derives directly from that of the Panigale V4. At the front, the system includes 330 mm diameter discs and Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers, similar to the Multistrada V4 S, to which are added the pads of the Panigale V4. At the rear the system includes a single 265 mm diameter disc on which a Brembo floating caliper works. The control, with regressive kinematics, has a smaller pumping element, thus improving power and modulation. The system is managed by the Bosch-Brembo 10.3ME Cornering ABS system.

In addition to the carbon fibre and titanium elements, a small battery has been adopted to further reduce weight resulting in the RS being a claimed 3kg lighter than the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak.

The new V4 RS offers sportier ergonomics than the Multistrada V4, with higher and further back footrests to increase the maximum lean angle. The handlebar, rigidly fixed to the triple clamp for improved feel, is lower, narrower and has a less accentuated curvature.
The Multistrada V4 RS is due to arrive in Australia in the second quarter of 2024 and will carry a price tag of $55,800 ride away.