Wanna buy » Multistrada vs. what?

[Rup 2008 1100S (Red)]

Don't want to be repetitive so, briefly, new (2500 miles) rider, have ridden 1000 of them on 696. Have tested Multi and liked upright position much better than 696, like feel of bike. BMW 800ST is a little tight between seat and pegs, and has, I think, more upper body lean (but my memory may be off). Like the feel, want to be comfortable on highway, most riding on suburban/semi rural roads in northeast US, wish Ducatis were happier when stuck in traffic. I do run across the occasional driveway or dirt road -no trails.

I read an article where the multi was compared to a BMW R1200GS, a Tiger, and a V-Strom. Wouldn't the 1200 be way too much for a newbie? Of course, I could be deluding myself that I could handle the Multi. What else, if anything, might I be looking at? BMW 800GS?

Two other questions:

Do the Ducati panniers detach easily as luggage or when not in use without leaving anything uncomfortable behind?

Other almost mandatory mods right away?

[sailwa66 2004 1000 DS]

The Multi will run circles around either GS on oil (oldtimer slang for asphalt). Put a 14T countershaft sprocket on it for traffic duty. While the panniers leave nothing "uncomfortable" behind when detatched, there's still the bracketry.

Mods? Pipes... IMO, Leo Vince is the best quality for the $$$ Remus are OK. Arrows I've had some bad experiences with. Termis are quiet and pricey.

[archkevinbrown]

I find the 620 happy enough in traffic, but of course happiest on open, moderately technical roads. Panniers couldn't be easier to remove, but haven't tried to remove brackets.
Mandatory mods: Termis, hugger and frame sliders (at least that's what I got )

[Rup 2008 1100S (Red)]

Sailwa66: Are the brackets for the panniers just little posts like on the BMW 800ST, or are they larger frames?

Archkevinbrown: What is a hugger?

Thanks for the help.

[Hampus 2003 1000 DS (Gray)]

Big ugly frames:

http://www.rka-luggage.com/pages/14gall ... de_2bi.jpg

[potomacduc 2013 1200 (Red)]

Big ugly frames:

http://www.rka-luggage.com/pages/14gall ... de_2bi.jpg

They are ugly frames, but they come off quite easily. I only use my hard panniers a few times a year for overnight trips. When I return home, I remove the whole rack and the passenger pegs. It takes 5 minutes once you know how to do it. The first time it took 15. I use a tailbag for day rides and around town carrying.

I prefer to not have bags on unless I definitely need them. I lile my bike as unfettered as possible.

[Rup 2008 1100S (Red)]

Are those big black things in the picture the attachment hardware for the side panniers or are they something else. If the former, I am surprised. I have seen the pegs to attach side cases to the BMW, and that is mostly one small steel peg.

Maybe even if I go with a Multi, I ought to reconsider the panniers?

[archkevinbrown]

Archkevinbrown: What is a hugger?

It's the rear fender, the sort of shield formed from plastic or carbon fibre (usually) you can install over the top of the rear tire to keep the bike a little cleaner. A "hugger" because there is relatively little clearance to the tire.

[JacoScholtz 2006 620 Dark (Flat black)]

Hi,

I was always a monster fan, but my first Ducati was the Multistrada 620 Dark.

This bike is fantastic in the city, mountain roads and on the open country roads. I love it for its versatility and its unique look.

Panniers and a tank bag makes weekend touring a joy.

Ciao

Jaco

[Rup 2008 1100S (Red)]

So the hugger is not what the pannier hooks onto? Thanks. Are the panniers easy to remove, say like a suitcase, if you are traveling?

Jaco, I am actually looking at a 1100S, hope all your enthusiasm still applies.

[JJGeo 2004 1000 DS (Black)]

So the hugger is not what the pannier hooks onto? Thanks. Are the panniers easy to remove, say like a suitcase, if you are traveling?

Jaco, I am actually looking at a 1100S, hope all your enthusiasm still applies.

The hugger is the rear fender that keeps water and road grime from being thrown onto the rear shock. The panniers hook onto the ugly metal frame.

Yes, the panniers come off easily and can be carried inside if desired. Just unlock them , and push a button.

The 1100S is a nice bike.

[llswift 2006 1000S DS (Red)]

I will reply to the first part of your question. I have had many, many motorcycles. Spent plenty of money on them and I find that the Multi is my favorite of all.

Thought about replacing last year and could not find anything to compare for me. I have done some performance mods - Staintune exhaust system, PowerCard, and 3+ pound lighter clutch assembly. On the handling side (I am 225lbs) I took it to a specialist that asked me how I rode and what I wanted. Changed front and rear springs and Ohlins superbike valving in forks and we dialed in the suspension for me.

I love the way it runs and love the way it handles, like on rails. With money in my pockets I cant find anything to consider. IMHO find one and dial it in for your needs and ride it like its not yours. It loves to be ridden agressively but can take a quiet Sunday ride as well, 2up if you desire. All with a relatively upright riding position.
Let's Ride,
Larry