Ducati Multistrada V4 RS – 180 HP Sport Touring Motorcycle
Superbike Sound and Radar: Inside the Multistrada V4 RS
Ducati equips the Multistrada with a V4 heart infused with MotoGP DNA. The new RS version comes standard with a Desmosedici Stradale engine, dry clutch, Öhlins Smart EC, radar, and carbon parts.
Ducati elevates the Multistrada lineup to a new level of sportiness with the new V4 RS. The integration of the Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine with a dry clutch, Akrapovič exhaust, Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension, and forged wheels signifies a clear alignment with the superbike platforms from Borgo Panigale. According to the factory, the Multistrada V4 RS is designed to offer full touring comfort for both rider and passenger, all while delivering an extra helping of racing DNA.
The Ducati Multistrada V4 RS is produced in a numbered limited series.
Desmosedici V4 Engine with MotoGP Technology
The Multistrada V4 RS is the only model in the lineup equipped with the 1,103 cc Desmosedici Stradale V4. Ducati claims an output of 180 HP at 13,500 rpm. The engine features a counter-rotating crankshaft, desmodromic valve timing, and an STM-EVO SBK dry clutch. According to the manufacturer, this setup is designed to deliver a linear power output at low revs and offers a sporty edge at higher rpm.
Paired with the Akrapovič exhaust and the high-flow Sprintfilter P08, the sound profile is crafted to be deep at low revs and roar like a superbike at full throttle. The exhaust system has been exclusively tuned for this model.
To enhance power delivery, the final drive ratio has been shortened compared to the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak. The gearbox itself remains unchanged, but it's controlled by the DQS 2.0 system without microswitches for more direct feedback and shorter shift paths.
As with the top Panigale models, a dry clutch made from machined aluminum is utilized. The specific spring tension and anti-hop feature are designed to enhance shifting and braking behavior. When temperatures exceed 70°C, the engine automatically deactivates the rear cylinder bank while stationary. Additionally, air ducts that channel fresh air to the legs can be closed in cold conditions. Valve clearance checks are scheduled every 30,000 km.
Chassis and Suspension – Sportier Than Ever
The frame geometry of the Multistrada V4 RS has been adjusted to achieve especially agile handling. The steering head angle is set at 25.75° (compared to 24.5° on the V4 S and Rally). The aluminum monocoque frame, single-sided swingarm, and the new titanium rear frame combine to form a package that, according to Ducati, is intended to unite sporty precision with touring stability.
The 17-inch forged wheels are fitted with Diablo Rosso IV Corsa tires: 120/70 ZR17 at the front and 190/55 ZR17 at the rear. The semi-active suspension is from Öhlins (Smart EC 2.0) and is based on an event-driven logic known from the Panigale V4 S and Streetfighter V4 S. It is designed to automatically adapt to the riding style and situation. Four modes (Track, Dynamic, Touring, Low Grip) can be selected at the push of a button, independent of the riding mode.
The sportier ergonomics include higher and more rearward foot pegs, a lower and narrower handlebar with direct triple clamp connection, and new, sportier grips. Despite the sporty setup, seat comfort on long-distance rides is said to have not been compromised. Another feature: The new "Front-to-Rear" braking strategy distributes braking force to the rear wheel when the front brake is applied, providing more stability in touring situations and during spirited riding.
Ducati Multistrada V4 RS 2026: Electronics and Assistance Systems
The Multistrada V4 RS comes standard with the following systems:
- Ducati Radar front and rear (ACC, BSD, FCC)
- Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO) an AI-based sensor logic with 70 simulated measurement points
- Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0
- Ducati Traction Control (DTC)
- Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC)
- Engine Brake Control (EBC)
- ABS Cornering with enhanced control strategy
- 4 Power Modes: Full, High, Medium, Low
- 5 Riding Modes: Race, Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet
The exclusive "Full Power Mode" delivers full power in all gears with direct throttle response. The 6.5-inch TFT display offers Ducati Connect, turn-by-turn navigation, and a new interface concept similar to the Track Info Mode of the Panigale V4. An actively ventilated smartphone compartment ensures reliability during navigation and charging.
Design and Exclusivity
The appearance of the Multistrada V4 RS blends familiar lines with exclusive details:
- Carbon elements: front fender, "beak," heat shield, handguards (model-dependent)
- Titanium rear frame with integrated passenger grab handles
- Technopolymer rear fairing with sleek lines
- Black plaque with Italian flag and serial number
According to Ducati, the focus is on lightweight construction and a sporty appearance. At the same time, the touring concept remains fully intact including luggage system and large windscreen (optional).
Ducati Multistrada V4 RS 2026: Availability, Warranty, and Market Launch
The Ducati Multistrada V4 RS will be delivered in Europe starting November 2025. The USA, Japan, and Australia will follow in December 2025 and January 2026, respectively. The price in Germany is 38,490 euros (including VAT, plus 345 euros delivery costs).
Included as standard is the Ducati 4Ever Multistrada Warranty: four years with no mileage limit, valid throughout Europe.
Features of the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS
- 1,103 cc Ducati Desmosedici Stradale V4 with valve clearance checks every 30,000 km *
- Dry clutch *
- Aluminum monocoque frame and aluminum single-sided swingarm
- Titanium rear frame *
- Carbon design elements *
- Semi-active Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension with event-based control and optimized strategies
- New 17-inch Marchesini forged aluminum wheels
- Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires: 120/70 ZR17 front, 190/55 ZR17 rear
- ABS Cornering (Bosch-Brembo 10.3ME) with front-to-rear braking strategy
- 330 mm front brake discs with Brembo Stylema 4-piston radial calipers
- Full-LED headlights with daytime running lights (DRL) and new Ducati Cornering Lights (DCL)
- 6.5-inch TFT color display with model-specific graphics and display *
- Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) by Bosch
- Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO)
- 4 Power Modes: Full, High, Medium, Low
- 5 Riding Modes: Race, Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet
- Front and rear radar system (Adaptive Cruise Control & Blind Spot Detection)
- Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) DVO
- Ducati Traction Control (DTC)
- Engine Brake Control (EBC)
- Keyless-Go (Hands-Free Start)
- Ducati Connect with phone, music, and map navigation
- Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0
- Vehicle Hold Control (VHC)
- Ducati Brake Light (DBL) EVO
*Features marked with an asterisk are exclusive to the RS version.
FAQ about the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS 2026
How much power does the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS have?
The Ducati Multistrada V4 RS delivers 180 HP (132.4 kW) at 13,500 rpm.
What engine is used in the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS?
The Ducati Multistrada V4 RS features the Desmosedici Stradale V4 with 1,103 cc displacement, desmodromic valve timing, counter-rotating crankshaft, and dry clutch.
What riding modes does the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS offer?
Race, Sport, Touring, Urban, and Wet. Power Modes: Full, High, Medium, Low.
Does the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS have radar assistance systems?
Yes. Front: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Rear: Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Forward Collision Warning (FCC).
What is the Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO)?
A sensor system that refines the regulation of ABS, DWC, and DTC based on simulated data.
What tires and wheels does the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS use?
Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV Corsa, front 120/70 ZR17, rear 190/55 ZR17. On forged aluminum wheels.
What suspension does the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS have?
Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 with four riding modes (Track, Dynamic, Touring, Low Grip). Event-based and manually adjustable.
Is the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS suitable for touring?
Yes. It can be equipped with touring cases, top case, seat, and tank bags. Comfort features like the seat and wind protection are retained.
Are there differences compared to the Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak?
Yes, including a shorter final drive ratio, new rear frame, altered geometry, different software strategy, and weight reduction.
When will the Ducati Multistrada V4 RS be available?
From November 2025 in Europe. Other markets from December 2025 (USA) and January 2026 (Japan, Australia).