2025 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally Review: Why Riders Love This Adventure Beast
A comprehensive, original review of the 2025 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally — specs, on-road and off-road performance, electronics, touring ability, maintenance costs, accessories, and buyer guidance to help you decide if it’s the ultimate long-range adventure bike.
Introduction — Why the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally matters in 2025
If you’re shopping the premium adventure (ADV) segment in 2025, the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally is unavoidable. It brings a serious touring range, high-end electronics, a torquey V4 engine derived from Ducati’s Granturismo family, and suspension built to handle miles of tarmac and rough backcountry tracks. In short: the Rally is Ducati’s statement of intent — a long-range, capable, tech-rich machine that aims to be equally at home on a European tour, a cross-country run, or a remote dirt track. Many of the headline technical specs — including the 1,158 cc V4 Granturismo motor and 170 hp peak output — come from Ducati’s own technical materials and are widely quoted in press reviews. Ducati+1
This guide is written from a buyer’s and rider’s perspective. I’ll cover the things that matter to real owners: engine and performance, chassis and suspension, electronics and safety aids, luggage and touring practicality, maintenance costs, plus real-world pros/cons and purchase recommendations. Where appropriate, I reference authoritative technical sources and reputable reviews so you have confirmed figures and perspectives. Cycle World+1
Quick summary — The short verdict
- Who it’s for: Experienced riders who want a premium long-range ADV with sportbike levels of power, extensive electronics, and genuine off-road capability for dirt tracks and fire roads.
- Strengths: Potent and smooth V4 engine, long fuel range from a 30 L tank, advanced rider aids (including radar-based ACC and blind-spot detection on certain trims), semi-active suspension, and a genuine touring focus with two-up comfort. Ducati+1
- Weaknesses: Premium price and weight — a big bike to manage at low speeds or in very tight technical off-road sections; the complexity of electronics increases servicing costs. Ducati Sydney+1
Suppose you want a long, detailed analysis and actionable buying advice, read on. In that case, this article covers everything from detailed specs to how the bike behaves on particular road surfaces and what accessories and trims are most useful.
Table of contents
- Key specs at a glance
- Engine: V4 Granturismo — what makes it special
- Performance: on-road and off-road impressions
- Chassis, suspension and braking — Rally setup explained
- Electronics and rider aids — the modern ADV toolbox.
- Touring practicality: fuel range, luggage and comfort
- Maintenance, running costs and reliability expectations
- Trim levels, options and accessories you should consider
- Real owner concerns — weight, ergonomics, and learning curve
- Competitors comparison — where the Multistrada V4 Rally stands
- Buying advice — new vs used, warranties, test-ride checklist
- Pros & cons (concise)
- FAQs
- Conclusion — Who should buy it?
1) Key specs at a glance: Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally
Core technical highlights (manufacturer claims & widely reported figures):
• Engine: 1,158 cc V4 Granturismo — 170 hp @ 10,750 rpm; 120–124 Nm torque (depending on source/trim). Ducati+1
• Fuel tank: 30 L (long-range) — gives around 450–500 km range in mixed riding. Ducati Sydney
• Weight: dry/wet figures around mid-200s kg; expect a wet weight in the ~227–260 kg range depending on spec and accessories. Ducati Sydney+1
• Suspension travel: long-travel Rally geometry (roughly 200–220 mm travel depending on front/rear setup). Semi-active Skyhook DSS EVO on higher trims. Ducati+1
• Electronics: 6-axis IMU, cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, slide control, engine brake control, multiple ride modes, adaptive cruise control (ACC) + blind spot detection (on Radar trims). Ducati+1
These are the figures you’ll see on spec sheets and dealer pages; later sections explain how these numbers translate into ride experience.
2) Engine: the 1,158 cc V4 Granturismo explained
The Ducati Multistrada V4 Granturismo is the technical heart of the Multistrada V4 lineup. Ducati designed this V-4 specifically for long-range use: it’s tuned for broad, usable torque across the rev range, relatively low peak revs compared with Ducati’s racier V4S, and durability for touring service intervals. Key design features include a counter-rotating crank, semi-dry sump lubrication, and a twin-pulse firing order that contributes to the motor’s character. Ducati quotes 170 hp at 10,750 rpm and torque around 121–124 Nm depending on market documentation. These are class-leading figures for an adventure bike and explain the bike’s lively highway and overtaking performance. Ducati+1
How that feels on the road: the motor is noticeably smooth at low revs — useful in traffic and technical trails — while offering an energetic midrange that makes passing and carrying two-up loads effortless. Reviewers note the engine’s refinement and linear power delivery; it’s potent without feeling twitchy. If you’re shifting less and using the quickshifter, the transmission and electronics package help the engine feel very usable for touring. MCNews+1
Owner tip: the V4’s service intervals for valve checks are long (Ducati advertises long intervals on V4 Granturismo platform models), which reduces running costs compared with many high-revving sportbike engines — a real advantage for touring owners. Ducati
3) Performance — on-road and off-road impressions
On tarmac
On paved roads, the Rally is fast, stable and confident. The 170 hp figure, combined with modern electronics, makes highway sweeping, mountain passes, and long-distance runs rewarding. The semi-active suspension (on Rally and higher trims) irons out long-distance fatigue and keeps the chassis composed during aggressive inputs. Press rides and long tests consistently praise the Multistrada V4 platform for blending sportbike dynamics with touring ergonomics. Cycle World+1
Off-road
The Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally real claim is its ability to extend off-pavement compared with street-biased big adventure bikes. Spoked wheels, increased ground clearance, long-travel suspension and off-road oriented ride modes mean the bike can handle gravel tracks, forest roads and mild singletrack. That said, the Rally remains a heavy bike — it’s not a lightweight enduro machine — so expect limits in very tight, technical, slow-speed sections. For most owners who ride mixed terrain and want to go further off the beaten path without needing a separate dirt bike, the Rally is a compelling compromise. Ducati Sydney+1
Real-world impression summary
- Highway: excellent — stable, quick, comfortable for long stints. Cycle World
- Twisty roads: engaging — V4 power makes it fun; chassis is communicative. MCNews
- Gravel/fire roads: capable — but weight requires confidence and correct riding technique. Ducati Sydney
4) Chassis, suspension and braking — what the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally setup gives you
Frame & geometry” Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally
The Ducati Multistrada uses Ducati’s aluminium monocoque frame and a chassis geometry revised for off-pavement use. The wheelbase, rake and trail are tuned to balance high-speed stability with low-speed off-road agility. Spoked wheels (19” front / 17” rear common for Rally spec) accept tubeless or tube-type tyres, depending on rim choices, and give robustness for rough terrain. Ducati+1
Suspension: Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally
High-end Rally trims include Ducati Skyhook DSS EVO semi-active suspension, which adapts damping to conditions and ride modes, offering an excellent compromise between comfort and sporty control. For deep off-road work, some riders prefer fully mechanical long-travel forks and shocks, but the Rally’s adjustable setup is very capable for most touring riders who will encounter mixed surfaces. Ducati+1
Brakes
Expect premium Brembo braking hardware with large dual front discs and advanced ABS with cornering logic. The braking system is strong and confidence-inspiring, which helps given the bike’s weight and performance. The cornering ABS and IMU-supported systems keep the bike stable under panic or hard braking while leaned. Ducati+1
5) Electronics and rider aids — the modern ADV toolbox
The Multistrada V4 Rally is loaded with electronics that matter for safety and comfort on long tours:
- 6-axis IMU for accurate angle and acceleration sensing.
- Cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control and slide control for safety in challenging conditions.
- Ride modes that tune power, ABS and traction for Road, Touring, Sport, Enduro, and Off-road situations.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Detection (BSD) available on Radar or Travel & Radar trims — these use front and rear radar sensors for real-world safety benefits during highway travel and lane changes. These features are relatively unique in the motorcycle segment and are a big selling point for long-distance riders. Ducati Richfield+1
Practical impact: ACC reduces fatigue on long runs, and BSD materially improves safety in traffic. Early press reviews and dealer materials highlight these systems as genuinely useful for touring riders. That said, radar systems add complexity and potential servicing cost — but many owners find the tradeoff worth it. Cycle World+
6) Touring practicality — range, luggage and comfort
Fuel capacity & range
With a 30 L fuel tank, the Rally is built for distance. Real-world range depends on riding style, luggage and two-up loads, but a conservative estimate is 450–500 km per tank in mixed riding. That makes multi-day touring with long stretches between fuel stops feasible and reduces the stress of hunting for stations in remote areas. Ducati Sydney
Luggage & rider comfort
Ducati and aftermarket suppliers offer aluminium panniers, top cases, tank bags and multiple seat/windshield options. Many Rally trims or accessory packs include heated seats and panniers as options for true long-range touring comfort. Wind protection is improved over standard Multistrada variants thanks to larger screens and deflectors fitted to Rally models. Ducati+1
Two-up riding
The Multistrada V4 Rally is designed to be comfortable for two riders on long runs. Passenger ergonomics, seat padding and pillion pegs are tuned for comfort, and the power delivery handles heavy loads without struggle. That makes the Rally a great choice for couples who tour together. Ducati Sydney
7) Maintenance, running costs and reliability expectations
Ducati’s modern V4 Granturismo engine emphasises longer service intervals — with valve checks and major services spaced widely compared to older designs. Ducati advertises long valve service intervals (one of the selling points of the V4 Granturismo platform), which reduces long-term ownership costs. However, labour rates, parts pricing and any radar/electronics repairs (if needed) will still be more expensive than mainstream marques. Overall, expect premium running costs, but also a platform engineered for extended touring reliability. Ducati+1
Estimated annual costs to budget for: insurance (high for a 170 hp machine), premium fuel, consumables (tyres, brakes), and periodic servicing at authorised Ducati dealers. If you add aftermarket luggage, skid plates, or crash protection, factor that into the initial purchase cost. Dealer extended warranties and service plans are worth considering for peace of mind on long trips. Ducati
8) Trim levels, options and accessories — choose what fits your riding
Ducati offers multiple trims and accessory packs for the Rally. Common configurations include:
- Radar / Travel & Radar trims: include Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection — excellent for long touring. Ducati Richfield
- Adventure Travel packs: add aluminium panniers, heated seats/grips and touring comfort features. Ducati Richfield
- Full Adventure / Performance packs: add upgraded exhaust, carbon trim and cosmetic/upmarket bits. Bennett’s BikeSocial Membership
Recommended accessories for typical buyers:
- Sturdy aluminium panniers (factory or high-quality aftermarket).
- Crash bars and a skid plate for protection on remote gravel roads.
- Centre stand (makes servicing and luggage loading easier).
- Upgraded tyres suited to your riding mix (a rally-biased tyre if you plan serious gravel work).
- Comfort seat and tall/lowered seat options depending on your height.
Select trims and accessories that match your primary use: long highway touring, mixed terrain exploration, or more pavement-focused adventure.
9) Real owner concerns — weight, ergonomics and learning curve
Weight: The Rally is heavier than smaller dual-sport bikes and requires awareness at low speeds and in tight situations. Many buyers recommend practising slow-speed balance and choosing crash protection if you plan true off-road exploring. Ducati Sydney
Ergonomics: Adjustable seat heights and handlebar positions help riders of different sizes. The Rally’s taller stance and long travel are designed to put you in a commanding position for visibility and control. Dealers often stock low-seat options for shorter riders. Ducati
Electronics complexity: The advanced electronics package is a boon, but it introduces more systems that can require dealer intervention for calibration or repair (radars, sensors, semi-active suspension). If you value absolute simplicity and easy DIY maintenance, consider the tradeoffs. For most touring riders, the benefits outweigh the increased complexity. Ducati Richfield
10) Competitors — who else should you consider?
The Multistrada V4 Rally sits in a competitive, premium part of the market. Main rivals include (depending on region and spec): BMW R 1250 GS Adventure (and new BMW large-capacity ADV offerings), KTM 1290 Super Adventure R, Honda Transalp / Africa Twin (higher spec trims), and Triumph’s larger adventure offerings. The Ducati differentiator is the V4 engine character, radar safety features on higher trims, and a focus on sportier dynamics combined with genuine touring capability. Press comparisons typically highlight Ducati’s on-road prowess versus some rivals’ heavier focus on raw off-road robustness. Cycle World+1
11) Buying advice — new vs used, test-ride checklist, negotiating tips: Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally
New vs used
- New: You get warranty, factory options, and the latest software/trim features (useful if you want radar/ACC). Great if you plan heavy use and value dealer support. Ducati Richfield
- Used: Look for low-mileage examples from reputable dealerships, check service history (especially for electronics updates and suspension service), and verify whether radar and cruise systems are present and functioning. A used V4 Rally with dealer-maintained service history can be an excellent value. MCNews
Test-ride checklist (what to try on a ride)
- Acceleration and midrange torque (pressure two-up if possible).
- Stability at highway speeds and interaction of ACC (if fitted).
- Suspension comfort at low and high speeds; check for harshness or bottoming.
- Ease of low-speed manoeuvring; get off-road if you plan gravel/forest use.
- Function of electronics: ABS, traction control, ride modes, quickshift, and any radar systems.
- Comfort for your height: seat, handlebar reach and passenger comfort.
Negotiating & purchase tips
- Ask about factory accessory bundles (panniers, heated seats) as they sometimes bundle at a discount. Ducati Richfield
- Consider dealer service plans and extended warranties for peace of mind.
- If you don’t need ACC or radar, evaluate whether a lower trim or a used model without those options represents a better value.
12) Pros & Cons — concise
Pros
- Exhilarating, flexible V4 engine with usable torque. Ducati
- Long fuel range from a 30 L tank — excellent for long tours. Ducati Sydney
- Advanced electronics, including radar-based ACC and BSD on selected trims. Ducati Richfield
- Semi-active suspension provides comfort and control across surfaces. Ducati
Cons
- Premium price and higher running/servicing costs. Ducati
- Size and weight limit technical off-road capability for less experienced riders. Ducati Sydney
- The complexity of electronics may lead to costlier repairs if sensors are damaged. Ducati Richfield
13) Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the real fuel range?
A: Expect roughly 450–500 km per tank in mixed riding; heavy two-up use or aggressive throttle will reduce this. Official tank capacity is 30 L. Ducati Sydney
Q: Is the V4 Granturismo reliable for long tours?
A: Yes — it’s designed with long service intervals and touring durability in mind; however, premium maintenance costs at authorised dealers should be expected. Ducati+1
Q: Do I need the Radar/ACC package?
A: If you do long highway travel, ACC and blind-spot detection substantially reduce rider fatigue and improve safety in traffic. If your riding is largely single-day local use, you may decide it’s unnecessary. Ducati Richfield
Q: Can a shorter rider handle the Rally?
A: With adjustable seats and dealer-available low seat options, many shorter riders adapt. However, the bike’s height and weight are non-trivial; try before you buy and consider crash protection. Ducati
14) Recommended configuration for typical buyers
- Single rider, mainly highway/touring: Travel & Radar trim with panniers and heated seat; comfort seat; tall windshield. Ducati Richfield
- Two-up touring pair: Adventure Travel pack with heated passenger seat, large panniers and cruise control. Ducati Richfield
- Mixed terrain explorer (gravel focus): Rally trim with spoked wheels, skid plate, crash bars, and rally-bias tyres; practice handling the weight on slow technical trails. Ducati Sydney
15) Useful links & authoritative references
When posting this article to your WordPress site, include a few high-authority external links (these are safe, professional backlinks that help readers verify claims and improve SEO trust signals):
- Ducati official Multistrada V4 Rally page (technical specs and manufacturer details). Ducati
- Ducati Multistrada V4 general page (platform specs and tech). Ducati
- CycleWorld first-ride / review (independent press perspective). Cycle World
- MCNews longform review (ride impressions and owner-focused commentary). MCNews
- Bennett’s / BikeSocial coverage for updates and trim details.Bennett’s BikeSocial Membership
17) Final recommendation & Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally
Verdict: The 2025 Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally is a top contender in the premium adventure touring space — exceptional engine, advanced electronics and a serious touring focus. It’s best for riders who want high performance and comfort over long distances and are willing to accept premium costs and the learning curve of a large, high-tech bike.
