9 Reasons Why You May Have to Avoid Ducati Multistrada V4

Summary

In this video, Vitold candidly discusses the potential drawbacks of the Ducati Multistrada V4, cautioning potential buyers to consider these cons alongside its many pros. Criticisms include the loss of the V2 engine's iconic sound, the decision to use a chain drive instead of a driveshaft, and concerns over build quality. He also mentions the bike's surprising handling, heat issues on the left side, and high cost. Despite these, Vitold acknowledges the bike's appeal and encourages viewers to weigh these factors against the bike's joys.

Takeaways

• 😟 The Ducati Multistrada V4 has a less cool exhaust sound compared to previous models due to the removal of the V2 engine.
• 🔊 The new model is criticized for sticking to a chain drive instead of a driveshaft, which is seen as less premium.
• 🛠️ Ducati's decision to not use a driveshaft is controversial, as it requires more maintenance and is messier compared to a driveshaft.
• 🏍️ The Multistrada V4 feels less well-made than expected, with cheap-feeling handlebar switches and issues with the fuel tank compartment lid.
• 🔥 The motorcycle can get uncomfortably hot on the left side, which might be a concern for riders in warmer climates.
• 🚫 Some users feel the V4 handles worse than previous generations, lacking the agility and nimbleness expected from a new model.
• 💸 The Multistrada V4 is one of the most expensive motorcycles in its class, which might be a consideration for potential buyers.
• 💰 Ducati is known for charging high prices for accessories and parts, which could be a significant additional cost.
• 🛣️ While the V4 is smooth at higher RPMs, it still experiences choppiness and lacks power at lower RPMs.
• 🏎️ The bike's gearing feels too short for the power it has, leading to a need for frequent gear changes, especially during aggressive riding.

Q & A

What is the main concern Vitold has about the Ducati Multistrada V4's engine?

Vitold is concerned about the change from the V2 engine to a four-cylinder engine, which he believes has resulted in a less cool exhaust sound compared to previous models.

Why does Vitold consider the exhaust sound of the Multistrada V4 to be a significant issue?

He feels that the exhaust sound was a key characteristic of Ducati motorcycles and that the new sound lacks the 'unreal experience' that could be extracted from the V2 engines with aftermarket exhausts.

What is Vitold's opinion on Ducati's decision to use a chain drive instead of a driveshaft?

Vitold is critical of Ducati's choice to stick with a chain drive, citing the advantages of a driveshaft such as maintenance-free operation, increased comfort, and cleanliness, which he believes outweigh the potential benefits of a chain drive.

How does Vitold perceive the build quality of the Multistrada V4?

He finds the build quality to be lacking, mentioning cheap-looking switches and a poorly functioning compartment cover as examples.

What does Vitold suggest about the handling of the Multistrada V4 compared to previous models?

He feels that the V4 handles worse than the 1260 and 1200 models, particularly at low speeds, and lacks the agility and cooperation with the rider that the previous generations had.

What is the issue Vitold experiences with the Multistrada V4's power delivery at lower RPMs?

He notes that below 4000 RPM, the bike still chokes and lacks punch, which is unexpected given the power of the four-cylinder engine.

How does Vitold describe the riding experience of the Multistrada V4 in terms of its smoothness and noise level?

He finds the bike to be very smooth at higher RPMs and extremely quiet, which gives it a bland feeling similar to that of a scooter.

What is the problem Vitold encounters with the heat generated by the Multistrada V4's engine?

He experiences discomfort from the heat on the left side of the engine, which can become annoyingly hot, especially during aggressive riding.

What is the price concern Vitold raises about the Multistrada V4?

He points out that the Multistrada V4 is likely the most expensive motorcycle in its class, which might not be worth the money considering its drawbacks.

Why does Vitold believe Ducati charges more for accessories and parts compared to other manufacturers?

He implies that Ducati's pricing for accessories and parts is high, suggesting that potential buyers should be aware of this additional cost if they decide to purchase the Multistrada V4.

What is Vitold's final recommendation for potential buyers of the Multistrada V4?

He suggests that if potential buyers can agree with or overlook the mentioned drawbacks, the Multistrada V4 can still be an enjoyable motorcycle for them.

Outlines

00:00

🏍️ Ducati Multistrada V4 Critique

Vitold discusses the Ducati Multistrada V4, warning potential buyers that this review will focus on the less desirable aspects of the motorcycle. He advises those looking for reasons to purchase the V4 to watch a different video. The critique starts with the elimination of the V2 engine, which resulted in a less impressive exhaust sound. Vitold also addresses the controversial decision to use a chain drive instead of a driveshaft, despite the latter's benefits in terms of maintenance and comfort. He highlights the lack of build quality, using the handlebar switches and a compartment cover as examples of poor design. He also mentions a comment that the V4 feels like a scooter, which he initially dismissed but later found some merit in, especially regarding the bike's smoothness and quietness.

05:00

🔧 Concerns Over Build Quality and Handling

In this paragraph, Vitold points out the build quality issues of the Ducati Multistrada V4, such as cheap-feeling handlebar switches and a fuel tank compartment cover that doesn't close properly. He compares these to the higher standards set by BMW motorcycles. He also expresses surprise at the V4's handling, which feels worse than previous generations, despite the new model's supposed improvements. Vitold notes that while the bike is stable, it lacks the agility and lightness of the older models. He also discusses the bike's power delivery, mentioning that it feels choppy below 4000 RPM and that the gears seem too short, leading to a jerky ride when accelerating hard.

10:03

🔥 Heat Issues and Expensive Aftermarket Parts

Vitold addresses the heat issues on the left side of the Multistrada V4's engine, which can become uncomfortable for the rider's leg. He acknowledges that some people may not experience this issue, but he confirms it based on his own experience. Additionally, he discusses the high cost of the motorcycle and the additional expenses for accessories and parts, which are more expensive than those from other manufacturers. Vitold concludes by saying that while the Multistrada V4 can be enjoyable, potential buyers should be aware of these drawbacks and decide for themselves if the bike is worth the investment.

Keywords

💡Ducati Multistrada V4

The Ducati Multistrada V4 is a motorcycle model produced by Ducati, known for its performance and versatility. In the video, it is the central subject being critiqued. The presenter discusses various aspects of the bike, from its engine sound to its handling, aiming to provide a balanced view of its pros and cons.

💡V2 Engine

The V2 engine refers to a two-cylinder engine with a V configuration, which was previously used in Ducati motorcycles. The video mentions that the Multistrada V4 has moved away from this engine type, which has led to a change in the exhaust sound that some viewers might not appreciate.

💡Exhaust Sound

Exhaust sound is an important aspect for many motorcycle enthusiasts, as it contributes to the overall experience of riding. The script discusses how the Multistrada V4's new engine results in a less 'cool' exhaust sound compared to previous models, which is a point of contention for the reviewer.

💡Chain Drive

A chain drive is a type of transmission system in motorcycles where the power is transferred from the engine to the rear wheel via a chain. The video criticizes Ducati for not opting for a drive shaft, which is considered more refined and requires less maintenance, and instead sticking with a chain drive.

💡Driveshaft

A driveshaft is an alternative to a chain drive, providing a more maintenance-free and cleaner power transfer system. The script highlights the advantages of a driveshaft over a chain drive, such as reduced need for maintenance and increased comfort due to no chain lubrication required.

💡BMW K 1600 GT

The BMW K 1600 GT is a motorcycle model mentioned in the video as an example of a bike that uses a driveshaft effectively, even with high horsepower. It is used to contrast with the Ducati Multistrada V4's choice of a chain drive.

💡Akrapovic Exhaust

Akrapovic is a brand known for high-performance exhaust systems. The script mentions an Akrapovic exhaust as an aftermarket option that could potentially enhance the exhaust sound of the Multistrada V4, aligning with the reviewer's preference for a more traditional Ducati sound.

💡Handling

Handling refers to how a motorcycle responds to the rider's inputs and road conditions. The video script suggests that the Multistrada V4 may not handle as well as previous generations, particularly at low speeds, which is a significant concern for a motorcycle aimed at touring.

💡RPM Range

RPM stands for revolutions per minute and refers to the number of times an engine completes a full cycle in a minute. The script discusses how the Multistrada V4's four-cylinder engine is smooth in the second half of the RPM range but struggles below 4000 RPM, affecting the bike's performance at lower speeds.

💡Agility

Agility in motorcycles refers to how nimble and responsive a bike is, especially at low speeds. The video suggests that the Multistrada V4 may not be as agile as it could be, which is a drawback for riders who value a responsive ride.

💡Gear Ratios

Gear ratios are the relationship between the number of teeth on the gears in a transmission system. The script indicates that the Multistrada V4's gear ratios may be too short for the power it delivers, leading to a less than optimal riding experience.

💡Thermal Management

Thermal management in motorcycles involves keeping the engine temperature within an optimal range. The video mentions that the Multistrada V4 can get uncomfortably hot, especially on the left side of the engine, which can affect rider comfort.

💡Accessories and Parts

Accessories and parts refer to additional items that can be purchased to enhance or customize a motorcycle. The script notes that Ducati charges a premium for these items, which could be a consideration for potential buyers who wish to personalize their motorcycle.

Highlights

Ducati Multistrada V4 is a high-performance motorcycle that may not be for everyone.

The V4's exhaust sound is less impressive than previous models, especially with aftermarket exhausts.

Ducati's decision to stick with chain drive instead of a driveshaft is controversial.

Driveshaft motorcycles offer maintenance-free operation and increased comfort.

The Multistrada V4's build quality is questionable, with some parts feeling cheap.

The bike's handling is not as agile as previous generations, especially at low speeds.

The V4 engine is smooth at high RPM but lacks punch at lower RPM.

The bike's gearing may be too short for the power it delivers.

The Multistrada V4 feels like a big scooter in terms of smoothness and quietness.

The bike can get uncomfortably hot on the left side of the engine.

The Multistrada V4 is one of the most expensive motorcycles in its class.

Ducati charges high prices for accessories and parts.

Despite its drawbacks, the Multistrada V4 can still be a joy to ride for some.

The video provides a balanced view, also directing viewers to another video with seven reasons to buy the Multistrada V4.

Transcripts

hi i am vitold and this one about ducati

multistrata v4 is going to be cold to

the bone and if you don't have the

nerves do not proceed as parental

guidance is required here also if you

are looking for a reason to get the

ducati multistrata v4 or just to justify

your choice to your wife leave this

video alone and head to my other one

seven reasons to buy the multistrada

however if it's about the wife the last

point in that video may not actually

apply and actually make things worse for

you anyway if you want to see in a fully

raw version what you may potentially not

like about the ducati multistrada v4 and

you want to know that up front to be

able to weigh the pros and cons then

stay as this will be very hateful

sorry helpful

starting off with a strong point that's

hard to understand for me that is

getting rid of the v2 engine which in

turn means that now the exhaust sound is

far from being as cool as before

especially considering aftermarket

exhausts which could

extract that unreal experience out of

those awesome ducatis v tweets i

personally loved that and it used to be

in ducati's dna which is now gone i do

hear the reasons of

more smoothness now with four cylinders

and so on but this argument has led to

one of the viewers

shooting one of the most

vicious

and cruel comments about ducati that i

have ever seen and actually inspired the

point number six in this video and it

may sum up the experience on this new

ducati multistrada v4 just wait for that

bomb to be dropped it props to the

author as it makes more and more sense

the more i think about ditching the v2

is one of the reasons for that point as

well in the second point since sound is

not something that we all care about i

do and so i took the liberty of putting

it as the first but the second point is

being quite controversial every time

that's being brought up and which is

that ducati refuses to install a drive

shaft but instead sticks to a cheap

chain drive and i do get that maybe it's

lighter maybe it's easier maybe it does

not

lose as much power at the wheel maybe

it's cheaper which it is but i don't

accept any of those since advantages of

having a driveshaft in their motorcycles

in this category are so overwhelming in

my opinion in comparison to those

kind of silly arguments first of all

there are motorcycles with driveshafts

with such power just take a look at the

good old bmw 1300 s or r with even more

power than multistrada's 170 horsepower

because those have 175

horsepower or at the current bmw k 1600

gt or gtl or any other variation with

over 1600

cc of displacement 160 horsepower and

now over 180

newton meters that's crazy in a

motorcycle both are also battery smooth

transferring all those sick numbers

through a drive shot so now what are the

advantages of the driveshaft that ducati

is now missing on and there are quite a

few indeed and the first one is just

peace of mind as you don't have to do

anything with a driveshaft as it's

basically maintenance free the second is

very much connected with that and it's

about the comfort at the same time so

you do not have to stop every few

hundred kilometers to spray the chain

you don't have to buy and carry a can

with a lubricant with your cell phone

every longer trip and there's no mess in

the rear part of the bike that otherwise

in a multistrada and every other

motorcycle with a chain is covered with

sticky and hard very hard to remove crap

you may forget about any of that with a

driveshaft and that is a luxury that's

missing here even though for so many

people this has often been one of the

selling points for motorcycles in this

category it certainly would influence my

decision and ignoring this for years now

in a motorcycle that successfully

aspires to be a well-rounded tourer it

may even seem ignorant maybe until you

see the next point on the list here and

then one more later and that is that

multistrada does not feel that well made

still now this is up to some point

subjective but up to some point it's not

and i've got a proof

without even looking for one and i'll

show you that but let's first take a

look at the switches on the handlebar

that look super cheap and just like in

most japanese motorcycles from the last

10 years they're kind of shiny kind of

not shiny and every single one is in a

totally different shape than others some

may not pay attention to it some may not

agree with this but after seeing and

touching bmw switches for example you

may think that this is what a benchmark

should be in the class now take a look

at this condom stretched over the start

button come on or say you want to use

this nice little compartment that ducati

gives us on the fuel tank to put there

our newest

fanciest iphone for one and a half

thousand euros

sounds like a great idea to store a

phone for example right some charging

and so on actually very very cool and

fancy until you realize that it does not

work as if you open it you need a hammer

to close it and imagine opening and

closing it every day for a year would

you put anything of value into that

here's also my proof with a random video

on the channel called riders motorcycles

hopefully they don't mind me showing

this to you the guy presents the new

pretty v4 with an akrapovic exhaust and

look what happens with the cover he

can't close it properly just as i said

it's not that he didn't try it just

wasn't supposed to work from the

beginning legends of any ducati's

reliability may be true and

actually they are in line with my own

experiences even with the dealer's

motorcycles that should have been in the

top condition but a few times in my life

over the last 10 years even

in those adidas motorcycles things would

not be working and to be fair that's not

yet known in the long run for the v4

except for this

cover

so there are basically no other reasons

to believe that this would be in place

but there are also no other reasons to

believe that it might change and to hell

with not separating this point from the

feeling of not being that very well made

i don't want to end up with a list of 20

things that may be considered not the

greatest in the movies rather because

it's a

it's a nice and enjoyable motorcycle but

let's move to the next one as this one

was a surprise that caught me totally

off guard and this is because very early

on after setting off on the v4s that i

got i felt it was handling worse than

the two previous generations the 1260

and the 1200 after

the facelift the 1200 before the

facelift was the worst handling

motorcycle on earth so it's definitely

excluded here this new v4 did not

impress me with its agility slash being

nimble especially at low speeds and

don't get me wrong it's not bad it

doesn't fight with you for example like

the first 1200 and it's fairly stable

and consistent in its reactions but i do

feel that the previous generations were

somehow feeling lighter and more willing

to cooperate with the rider because

what's the point of the new model if it

does things worse than the outgoing now

the fifth point that should be rather

objective

you might think that four cylinders help

this multistrada stay smooth

and you would be right as they do but

only in the second half of the rpm range

is below 4000 rph the bike still chokes

and barks at you just like most v2

engines would and it doesn't like that

and it lacks the punch in that area as

well despite its power so if you ride

below 100 kilometers

and somewhere in that

lower range and you open the throttle it

will start shaking and not much would be

happening really

and that's not a surprise

but what is

strange is that riding it aggressively

i felt on the other hand that the gears

were too short and i would expect the v4

to rev or to keep revving higher and

higher and keep just going but instead

it would cut fuel and create a sudden

slowdown reminding me in this way to

change a gear and it's especially

challenging as in one of the basic

riding settings the bike keeps and keeps

lifting its front wheel when

accelerating with full power which is

resulting in rider holding the handlebar

harder instead of thinking about

changing gears and i was thinking about

it until i came to a conclusion that the

first few gears must be too short for

the amount of power that's there while

the higher gears may be too long

on the other hand and they can't cope

when the engine is at lower reps there's

something i think weird about ticketing

if something didn't shoot me just go

ahead try if you find it all good then

it's great now the point number six

coming straight from hell and the one

that we've been waiting for

some time ago under my full review of

the multistrada v4 right after writing

it i saw a comment saying that according

to that person the new multistrada v4 is

like a big scooter and i thought

how cruel is that

obviously there's no scooter that quick

and i was trying to reason with that

comment in my head and i almost

responded to that terrible offense with

another office of my own

um just kidding and actually you will

see so right after this i started

thinking that indeed aside from

performance this bike actually feels

like a big scooter it's very smooth at

higher rpm it's extremely quiet when

riding normally so if you are not okay

with that bland feeling

you might take a look at the bmw

s1000xr or a ktm or even a gs and the

worst or perhaps the hardest part is

that i don't really know why it does

resemble that feeling and i quietly just

expect

its looks to contribute to that and that

smoothness and that quietness all that

together but the looks may play a part

in that perhaps now let's get to the not

so lucky but short reason number seven

it's that multistrada v4 gets annoyingly

hot on the left side of the engine to

the point that it's uncomfortable to

your left leg and i've read comments

saying that some people write this

multi-strategy for in hot places and

they don't feel that and then some

others saying that indeed it gets hot

and ducati should resolve the issue i

can tell you with all certainty that if

you ride it like me so not that soft it

will get hot and you will realize that

it happened pretty quickly actually

maybe because i'm not living in a super

hot place so i'm not used to burning my

skin every day but i know from my

experience that in motorcycles that

don't get enough cooling this can grow

to a large problem and that's why i have

put it into separate point and on top of

that we know that ducati most likely was

aware of that as they have installed

a two rear cylinders deactivation system

to prevent the bike from getting even

hotter at traffic stops for example and

you won't feel that system working and

it doesn't impact the bike's performance

and well maybe they just forgot

to actually make it work

and we will find some are two cables

that aren't connected together who knows

now an eighth reason that had to be

coming as this is a very expensive

motorcycle and i'm not going to be

telling you guys if it's worth your

money or not is that entirely your call

it definitely may be

but it also does not necessarily have to

be worth it sometimes some things are

not about strictly calculated numbers

but

be aware

that this is likely the most expensive

motorcycle in this class and even harley

davidson will ask for less for their pan

america and that's actually justified as

it's currently the ugliest human

creation on earth but let's put that

aside ninth point and the last one at

the same time is somehow connected with

the previous one but it's so significant

that it deserved to get its own spot

here as ducati will charge you for

accessories and parts like no other

manufacturer if you've got the money to

spend and you don't care as you just

love the bike just forget about those

two points

a motorcycle is supposed to deliver as

much joy as possible and ducati

multistrada v4 certainly can be that

kind of a motorcycle if you can agree

for some of those drawbacks or you

simply don't care about them as well and

then this means that it's a bike exactly

for you and i hope that most of you guys

will end up with such a feeling if you

already especially if you already have

the multi-strata before if you don't

then head also to my other video with

seven reasons why getting this

multistrada could work great for you

now thank you for watching

i hope you got a

broader point of view now take care and

see you in the next video bye