The Ducati That Feels Surprisingly Practical

Almost as a reaction to the superbike-obsessed generation before us, the most popular motorcycles of today are all fiercely pragmatic machines. Modern ADVs and crossover-type touring bikes all offer a different blend of on- and off-road performance. For the vast majority of us that can only realistically afford to own and run one motorcycle, this kind of versatility is appealing. Add to this the ability to handle the daily commute, and we have a winning formula. In 2026, Ducati has joined the party, too, with a near-perfect example of a surprisingly practical ADV tourer.

Ducati’s Charm Now Comes With Added Practicality

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Ducati built a reputation for producing some of the most incredible, exotic superbikes in the industry. Boring things like reliability and everyday usability were hardly ever part of the conversation, let alone part of the development process. As such, a congruent negative sentiment towards the brand was also established, with so many customers let down by these exotic machines.

Ducati

All this changed when the VW Group stepped in. The Germans added a dash of pragmatism to the brand, without removing the key elements which make the bikes so special. This union that looked so unlikely in the beginning has worked a treat, and it has given us some incredible bikes that are actually reliable, yet still ooze Italian charm. Out of all the more pragmatic models, it is the latest crossover that really stands out.

The Ducati Multistrada V2 Offers A Unique Blend Of Luxury And Everyday Practicality

MSRP: $16,995 – $19,995

Ducati

As is the case with virtually every Ducati currently on sale (with the possible exception of the Scrambler range), the Multistrada V2 demands a premium. It is not a model that offers prospective customers the kind of value you can get elsewhere, but it does offer a certain level of quality that you simply cannot get elsewhere. Unlike the Ducati motorcycles of the past that leaned heavily on their exotic nature for sales, the modern Multi offers exemplary build quality, a host of electronic features, and a reliable modern V-twin.

A New V-Twin Brings Long Service Intervals Without Desmo Worries

Power: 115 Horsepower

Ducati

With so many brands switching over to parallel-twins, we are grateful that Ducati is still willing to invest in a V-twin like this. Naturally, the 90-degree V-twin, or “L-twin” if you will, is as much a part of the brand as its red colorway. Aside from the engine configuration, this is an entirely new engine. As such, there is always a chance that there will be a few teething issues, but in the same breath, this is a thoroughly modern lump, and if it is anything like the other new Ducati engines, it should be perfectly reliable.

Breaking From Tradition

Ducati

This is the lightest V-twin engine Ducati has made, and one small, but significant contributing factor is the use of valve springs. Desmodromic valves had been used in every single “L-twin” the Italian manufacturer had produced up until now, and it marks a break away from tradition many Ducatisti would not have seen coming.

For those inclined, there are still other models that make use of desmodromic valve trains, but for an engine destined for street use, variable valve timing just makes more sense in terms of efficiency and usable real-world performance. For those looking for a race engine, this may not be the best platform. Even though metallurgy has improved no end, valve float is still a possibility, and in a heavily modified Italian V-twin engine, it is more of a probability.

You Get What You Pay For With The Multistrada V2

Ducati

The biggest difference that you are actually paying for with any Ducati is the simple fact that these bikes are all still put together by humans. Naturally, there is some level of mechanization added to the process, but for the most part, these are still machines made by people. This human element doesn’t make a huge difference on paper, but in reality, it infuses each bike that rolls off the assembly line with a little “soul.” While this has always been a key point of difference for the brand, in an era where machines really are taking over almost every aspect of our lives, this human element is well worth paying for.

There Is No Shortage Of Modern Tech

Ducati

The more affordable base model is nearly identical to the V2 S aside from the S models’ Skyhook semi-active electronic suspension. It is one of the most sophisticated suspension setups on the market, and while it takes all the hassle out of dialing in the suspension, it will add a potentially expensive failure point later on in life. While this may not be a popular opinion, the conventional suspension on the base model will be more than sufficient for most riders.

It is fully adjustable, and as long as you are willing to put in the time and effort, it won’t make the bike any less fun to ride. This is pretty much a guarantee thanks to its sporty lightweight aluminum chassis. While going off-road is a possibility, in part thanks to how light it is, it certainly won’t be why you are buying the bike.

In terms of electronic features, neither bike will leave you wanting for more. Both bikes come with cruise control, lean sensitive traction control, cornering ABS, a quickshifter, a 5-inch TFT dash, ride modes, and an adjustable windshield. Much like other crossovers or tall-rounders, it does not come with luggage as standard, and if you want the color-matching saddlebags you will need to pay extra.

At this price, there is no denying the fact that there are several more powerful bikes on the market that offer superior value. What you get here is a do-it-all crossover that offers a level of luxury that is pretty much unmatched. It also comes with a certain charm that other non-Italian brands simply can’t replicate.

Chassis, Suspension, And Weight Specifications

Source: Ducati