Review: 2025 Ducati Multistrada V4 S

In 2021, Ducati’s top-spec Multistrada models followed the Panigale sport bikes in receiving the new 1158cc V4 engine. The powerplant utilizes a cams-and-valve-springs valvetrain, rather than the company’s iconic desmodromic—or desmo to fans—actuation. 

The change resulted in more power, refinement and much longer service intervals than the L-twins that had been Ducati’s signature power source for decades. In 2022, I rode the new Ducati Multistrada V4 through Colorado’s Rocky Mountains in brisk fall weather in the inaugural Ducati Giro Alpino, and the new bike was indeed impressive.

Ducati has refreshed the Multistrada V4 for 2025, and the company invited me to the alpine town of Gubbio, Italy, for some time aboard the Multistrada V4 S variant.

Riding a Ducati in Italy is a special experience. I was able to point the updated Multistrada off the pavement in the mountains surrounding the picturesque town, which has been thriving for more than 2,000 years.

What’s New For the 2025 Multistrada V4 S?

Ducati has made numerous changes around comfort, suspension, and braking for 2025, as well as some visual tweaks (mostly in paintwork). The more supermoto focused Multistrada Pikes Peak model also returns for 2025 along with a base V4 variant. The R model and other special trims are expected next year.

Except for a holdover V2 S L-twin model, the Multistradas use the V4 Granturismo motor that makes a claimed 170 horsepower at 10,700 rpm and 91 lb-ft of torque at 9,000 rpm. Ducati says minor changes and rear cylinder deactivation both at idle and when underway make the engine 6% more efficient and Euro 5+-compliant, while power output remains the same.