Heed 505

Hey all, as you read this I’m flying with the stars (twinkle, twinkle) to Lanzarote, the easternmost landmass in the Canary Island chain. I’m traveling there to have a ride on the totally revamped 2010 Ducati Multistrada 1200. The Multistrada is Ducati’s motorcycling Swiss Army Knife. It’s similar in design to the classes de facto standard—BMW’s R1200GS. Up until this year however, the Multistrada lacked the outright versatility of the Beemer. That apparently changes with the introduction of the ’10 machine.
 
Ducati touts its newest creation as being essentially four motorcycles for the price of one. Based on our experience with its audacious 1198 Superbike derived 1199cc liquid-cooled L-Twin engine, we know that it’s definitely going to have plenty of sport. Given its tall adjustable windscreen, relaxed ergonomics, optional baggage, 5.3-gallon fuel tank, and active suspension we know it’s going to be a killer touring machine. And considering the narrow configuration of its engine, upright seating position, protective bodywork, key-less proximity sensor ignition, and optional anti-lock braking system it’s also going to be perfect for use within the concrete jungle.

For the first-time ever, Ducati claims the new Multi is designed to have an enduro aspect built into it allowing riders to keep on shredding after the pavement ends. To do this Ducati outfitted it with longer travel suspension, Pirelli Scorpion enduro-style tires, and some engine protection in the form of an aluminum skid plate.

In addition to all these versatile features the new Multi will incorporate multiple new technologies that we’ve never seen on a production Ducati. Some of which include a new fully electronic ride-by-wire throttle control system with 3-way engine power adjustment, 12v power socket, and increased 15,000 mile major service intervals.

I’ll be posting an exclusive push it to the limit-style review towards the end of the week. Until then, take a look at our 2010 Ducati Multistrada 1200 First Look for more information about Italy’s latest two-wheeled creation. Then take a look at the short video below assembled by the kind folks at Ducati. Lastly, if you have any specific questions in regards to riding this bike make sure to leave a comment and I’ll do my best to give it a mention in my essay.