Hello everyone! I hope you can be kind enough to help a potential buyer 1 more time. I'm 51, ridden 35 years, and had everything from enduros to ST's to Wing. My girlfriend and I love to ride at every opportunity. I currently have a Kawasaki Voyager: comfortable but very heavy, and a slug in a turn. We enjoy lazy rides together, but I crave a 2nd but lighter bike. Thing is, I'm not looking to strafe the corners on every ride (well maybe a little ). I find myself attracted to the Multi for it's light weight, handling, upright seating, seemingly reasonable wind/rain protection, plenty of power and twin torque (more my riding style). Will ride more aggressively solo, but will take more leisurely rides 2 up. Is this reasonable for a Multi or do they always have to be ridden like you stole it?
As long as you keep the revs above 3500 you can do just about anything. I haven't done any two-up with it (that's what my FJR is for), but I think you'll be happy.
2012 Yamaha Super Tenere
2009 Triumph Street Triple R
2006 FJR1300 (sold)
2005 Multistrada 1000 S (sold)
My wife doesn't mind the day trips, 2up. She said she could probably handle an overnighter, but an extended trip would be rough. There are folks that do it. I wouldn't say pillion comfort was way high up on the list when Ducati was designing it.
I have the top case on the bike when we ride 2up. She wouldn't do it, otherwise.
I'd say the bike is truly at home on the twisties, and sweepers, but it will settle down and let you enjoy the backroads in smooth fashion.
as a "passenger" I will say... I love our Multi !! We went on a 6 day / 1700 mile trip shortly after we got "her" and I was a bit sore...but that was my first long ride on anything. I guess I got broken in the hard way, but in style. Have been on a few trips since then & still loving it. I've had the opportunity to get my own bike, but right now the 2 up suits me just fine.
We did upgrade our seats to the newer version and we do have the topbox with backrest ... I have even been able to take naps on the trips... but I guess thats all in your comfort level and I COMPLETELY TRUST my husband (and try not to worry so much about all the other nuts on the road)
I think u will be very happy with the Multi & you will turn several heads along the way !!
Coming off a Voyager, you and your passsenger will definitely be giving up some creature comforts, but you'll be having so much fun it won't matter. My wife has taken many trips on the back of the ST1100. She's not as comfortable on the Multi, but doesn't complain.
STeve B in NC
'12 Multistrada S Touring
Yes, I do miss my air cooled multi...
Brand spanking new '16 Thruxton R
Get the MTS...so much fun any issues that come up will be secondary! The first time you take a turn (solo) with your inside shoulder and butt cheek off center you will know what I'm talking about. This bike will never feel heavy or clunky. When you're not carving, you are in a nice relaxed riding position, especially if you're tall. I'm 61 years old and still enjoy its virtues.
Life is just a tire swing...
Blackberry pickn'
Eatn' fried chickn'
I appreciate all the responses. You all seem very happy with your bikes, and I could relate to things in each. Really appreciate the passenger responses too.
Since this will be a 2nd bike, it would seem I can have the best of both (well the newer Wings were much better than the Voyager, but money was an issue at one time-better to ride something than not at all and the Voyager still delivers)
I do look forward to solo rides!!
Additional thoughts always welcome, and thank you!
its a Givi.. we got the 46 liter... I wish we had gotten the 52 so the helmets would fit a little "easier" ... they fit but we have to work it just right... a 52 wouldve been just enough more room.... but hubby thought it was too big & looked top heavy.
They think Im nuts for napping back there... but man its so peaceful with no phone, no radio... that sometimes I cant resist.... I do like to nap when Im going to be in a boring area... dont want to miss anything...