Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A and BMW Motorrad are two of the most accomplished two-wheeler manufacturers in the world. Each of these brands’ diverse product portfolios oozes technological sophistication, with their intelligent machines sporting an unmatched level of passion and enthusiasm when it comes to their overall construction. The brand value of both these brands is stratospheric and is further justified by the uncanny attention to detail that encompasses their versatile and highly exhilarating motorcycles. The Ducati Multistrada V2 and the BMW F 850 GS are two of the most exquisite offerings in the competitive dual-sport motorcycle segment. Both these imposing machines are impeccably engineered and sport top-of-the-line technological ingenuity that is awe-inspiring. The purpose-built machines feature all the essential features needed to conquer a challenging off-road environment and elegantly display their versatile character.
The new Ducati Multistrada V2 and the BMW F 850 GS are two of the most rugged two-wheelers in the dual-sport motorcycle segment. The incredibly versatile motorcycles are purpose-built and house an array of technological cues that further complement their intrepid personalities.
Ducati Multistrada V2 Vs BMW F 850 GS: The Design
The Ducati Multistrada V2 features lightweight construction and an incredibly ergonomic design language. The aesthetic appeal of the sporty tourer is undoubtedly high and is instantly recognizable as a Ducati, owing to its familiar adventure design theme. The Multistrada V2 houses familiar rearview mirrors and rims that take their inspiration from the bigger V4 variant, with the inclusion of a lower suspension kit only accentuating its imposing presence.
The BMW F 850 GS sports a purpose-built exterior design, best suited for off-roading. The imposing German two-wheeler houses swanky 21-inch wheels and sports a vast equipment list, with many user-friendly features coming in as standard. Add to the mix the highly customizable exterior trim options and accessories. The F 850 GS from BMW is an aesthetically pleasing machine that is sure to turn heads while cruising along the highways or conquering the rugged off-road terrain.
Ducati Multistrada V2 Vs BMW F 850 GS: The Equipment List
The Multistrada V2’s equipment list is rather impressive. The stylish tourer houses a multifunctional high-visibility LCD screen, while the more premium ‘S’ variant features a 5-inch color TFT display. The multipurpose display sports Ducati’s patented Multimedia System that aids in navigational assistance as well, further accentuating the overall riding experience of the versatile Italian off-roader.
The technological prowess of the V2 continues, as the sporty Ducati features a Bosch-developed six-axis cornering ABS system, hill-hold control, traction control, and even several riding modes to conquer the unpredictable outdoors. Add to the mix the highly ergonomic seating configuration, and the Ducati Multistrada V2 proves to be a dependable and incredibly user-friendly companion suitable for smooth long highway journeys as well as adventure-filled off-road outings.
The BMW F 850 CS is certainly no slouch either when it comes to the equipment list. The highly-capable German two-wheeler features an Onboard computer Pro system, automatic stability control, ABS, and even Selectable Ride Modes to suit various riding environments.
The provision of Adjustable handbrake and clutch levers, heated grips, traction control, and even the quick-shifter only accentuates the sporty beamer's user-friendliness and riding dynamics. Overall, the F 850 CS manages to hold its own against the competition in its segment with its vast standard feature list.
Ducati Multistrada V2 Vs BMW F 850 GS: The Performance Dynamics
The performance dynamics of the Multistrada V2 envelope an element of intelligence. The V2 houses a 937cc water-cooled Testastretta L-Twin powerful that is capable of churning out an impressive 111 hp at 9000 rpm and 70.80 lb-ft of torque at 7750 rpm. The overall construction of the engine sports lightweight components such as an all-new clutch as well as an updated gearbox that further improves the spirited performance of the stylish Italian two-wheeler. The overall construction of the Multistrada V2 comprises a front trellis frame as well as two aluminum side frames that are accompanied by a double-sided aluminum swingarm made from cast aluminum. Suspension duties on the rugged two-wheeler are taken care of by a 48mm upside-down front fork with 170mm of travel, a set-up that accentuates riding comfort even when the motorcycle is fully loaded. Overall, the V2 displays sound performance characteristics suitable for tackling bumpy or uneven surfaces presented by the unpredictable outdoors.
The BMW F 850 GS also shines bright in the performance department. The German two-wheeler houses a liquid-cooled 4-stroke parallel-twin engine that is capable of belting out a respectable 90 hp at 8000 rpm and 63 lb-ft of torque at 6250 rpm. The engine comprises four valves per cylinder, dry-sump lubrication, and electronic fuel injection that further polishes the power delivery of the mighty beamer. The incredibly light clutch action only accentuates the overall riding experience of the F 850 GS, making it an extremely well-rounded machine to maneuver. The overall construction of the F 850 GS comprises a bridge-type frame and cast-aluminum dual swingarms that make it a lightweight and durable motorcycle fit to dominate the off-road scenario.
The suspension set-up of the beamer features a 43mm upside-down telescopic front fork with 204mm of travel, while the rear sports a larger 219mm of travel. The resulting ride quality of the F 850 GS proves to be confidence-inspiring with the inclusion of BMW’s Electronically Controlled Suspension System. The generous amount of travel provided by the suspension set-up aids in conquering the unpredictable off-road environment, making the F 850 GS an incredibly capable performer.
Ducati Multistrada V2 Vs BMW F 850 GS: The Price
The Ducati Multistrada V2 is an impeccable engineered dual-sport machine. The versatile Italian off-roader is feature-rich, ergonomically designed, and dishes out explosive firepower owing to its lively powertrain. With a starting price of $15,295, the V2 commands a slight premium over the $13,345 BMW F 850 GS, which is also an equally impressive performer. This marginal difference in price makes it a monumental task to pick a clear victor, with both these machines displaying their exquisite versatile nature with authority.
The Ducati Multistrada V2 and the BMW F 850 GS are two very capable dual-sport motorcycles. The Ducati impresses with its explosive performance dynamics and ergonomic design language. At the same time, the BMW puts on a great showing with its exquisite ride and handling characteristics and user-friendly feature list. Both these machines display their fair share of pros and cons. Still, the Ducati Multistrada V2 proves to be a tad more exciting than the very capable BMW, with its unmatched ergonomic riding characteristics polishing the appeal of its overall package.