Ducati has revealed changes to its Multistrada V4 range of adventure bikes for 2025, which include a new electronics package, styling changes, chassis tweaks, and an increase in fuel efficiency.
Since its arrival back in 2003, the Multistrada has been one of the most advanced adventure bikes in terms of sophisticated electronics and performance.
But with manufacturers of premium adventure bikes seemingly locked in a technological arms race, new features that involve radar units and increasingly clever motorcycle computer brains seem to be appearing almost every month.
What does this all mean? Well, despite the Multistrada V4 already boasting a full suite of electronic gadgetry, the folks in Bologna have crammed more silicon into the bike, spent more time plugging codes into their computers, and wrapped it all up in an even prettier package.
This is what’s new for the Multistrada V4 in 2025.
Model overview
Currently, Ducati’s Multistrada V4 line-up includes the standard V4, the Skyhook suspension equipped V4 S, the kitted out V4 S Grand Tour, the off-road focused V4 Rally, and the sporty V4 Pikes Peak and RS.
So far, Ducati has announced changes only to the V4, the V4 S, and the V4 Pikes Peak for the 2025 model year.
Upgraded electronics
Sifting through a fair swathe of jargon, the big Ducati now has what’s called a ‘Ducati Vehicle Observer’ (DVO) function.
This has been developed through Ducati’s racing program, and features 70 sensors and a computer which Ducati says calculates the bike’s positioning even more accurately than ever, enhancing the bike’s safety features in the form of the cornering ABS, wheelie control, and traction control.
In addition, a forward collision warning system has been implemented, making use of the bike’s radar to alert the rider to a possible collision.
Ducati has also added to its riding mode selection, with a new ‘Wet’ mode designed for rainy conditions, and a revised Enduro mode which limits the power from 170bhp to 114bhp, changes the traction control settings, and switches off the rear ABS.
On top of all this, the V4 S now gains an updated Skyhook electronic suspension system, with better bump detection and auto levelling, automatic lowering when travelling at low speeds or at a stop, and a greater range of preload adjustment to the shock.
Reduced fuel consumption
If you’ve owned or ridden a Multistrada V4 for any length of time, you’ll know that you’re likely to be the first one pulling into a petrol station when you’re out for a ride.
There’s no getting away from the fact that the 170bhp V4 is a thirsty unit, especially when the throttle is that much fun to open.
However, Ducati has implemented some changes to its Granturismo engine for 2024 to aid in consumption and emissions.
Previously, the rear bank of cylinders would shut off at idle when stationary to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption (and burning your legs).
That system has now been extended to certain riding situations, which has reduced fuel consumption by 6% over the previous iteration.
This has also helped the Multistrada V4 pass the Euro 5+ emissions test.
More pillion leg room
There’s not too much to change here: the Multistrada V4 is still one of the most comfortable adventure bikes for long-distance riding.
However, the 2025 model sees the swingarm mounted 1mm higher, which Ducati says increases the anti-squat properties of the suspension and makes the handling more precise.
Meanwhile, the panniers are now mounted 25mm further to the rear, increasing the legroom for a pillion, and the top case mounts have also been pushed back.
Styling changes
Ducati has updated the design of the Multistrada V4 to offer a ‘more aggressive and sophisticated look without falling into overdesign’, that’s what it’s marketing folks are saying anyway. And to our eyes, it remains one of the best looking adventure bikes around, even if that front radar unit does take something away from that sleek front fairing.
For 2025, the standard V4 is available in Ducati Red, while the V4 S is available in Ducati Red, Thrilling Black, or Arctic White.
Ducati Multistrada V4 Pikes Peak
The sportier Pikes Peak version also gets the upgraded Ducati Vehicle Observer electronic safety system, new rims, and the change in swingarm height, while retaining the one-sided swingarm, 17-inch front wheel that differentiates it from the standard V4.
Prices for all three models have yet to be announced, but they’re expected to be arriving in dealerships from October this year.
