Riding a motorcycle is often unexplainable; there is nothing like the sensation of driving along the highway at a fast speed. As the landscape changes and the wind blow over you, and the sound of exhaust filling your senses as the engine rpm surges, it's an experience that is nothing short of astounding. What better way to accomplish this than with adventurer tourers? These road-biased ADV's are equipped with alloy wheels, good ground clearance and suspension, and ergonomics to make a thousand-mile journey seem like a stroll in the park.
Ah, it's the Ducati Multistrada V2, Bolognian beauty in its most unconventional avatar. It is intended to take riders across the country while tackling the curviest roads possible. And, from the land of fish and chips, you have the Triumph Tiger 900, greater than the name. The Brits are particularly targeting the "adventure" section. This is a weird comparison, but both having comparable purpose and a price. So, which amongst them is the best option?
Don't Judge A Book By Its Cover
In addition to replacing the Multistrada 950 as the new entry point in the Ducati ADV range, the most recent model uses the 937cc Testastretta 11-degree V2 engine, which is already powering the Panigale V2. The new model now puts out 113 hp. Its bigger kin, the Multistrada V4, has also bestowed a host of electric gadgetry, including Vehicle Hold Control, Traction Control, and four riding modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, and Enduro). The Ducati is expected to offer a distinct benefit over Triumph in terms of performance, at least on paper.
The 888-cc three-cylinder mill in the Triumph Tiger dishes out 95 horsepower, and all of this power is equally distributed among the whole rev range, making it more comfortable for the first-time user. But, the engine is not as quiet as the predecessor and does have more of a wheeze. There's not too much to complain about, however.
The foundation that makes up the latest Multi remains the same as before, including the front trellis side frames, and the single-sided swingarm made of aluminum. This S version is mounted on the Ducati Skyhook EVO semi-active suspension based on Sachs front forks and Sachs rear mono-shocks. In contrast, the V2 base uses completely adjustable Sachs 48mm. The braking system is the same on both models, equipped with Brembo M4.32 monobloc calipers that squeeze dual discs measuring 320mm in the front, and at the rear, there is one 265 mm disc.
The Tiger 900 comes with 21" inch spoked wheels wrapped in the Bridgestone Battlax Adventure tire. It has a seat 850mm, has large handlebars, foot-pegs that are on the comfortable side, which allows more support while standing. Technological revamps include LED lighting throughout; six riding modes; a 7-inch TFT display (GT and GT Pro, Rally and Rally Pro only); new optimized cornering ABS and cornering traction control (GT and GT Pro, Rally and Rally Pro only); and phone storage with USB charging port.
Beauty And The Beast
You can assume the Italian design to be sumptuous at any level, and the Multistrada ADV depicts their talent. It doesn't matter if it's the fierce snout and the scooped-back seat or the way that the led tail-lamp with a fanged design has been integrated; this is an exquisite blend of form and function. The quality of the design across a wide range of aspects is an improvement over the Triumph's, with the glistening Ducati red adding a dash of glamor that's difficult to resist.
The Triumph isn't as charming as the Ducati, but it has more purpose in its design, which is evident in its sleek front end, split radiator, and exposed subframe. It's also smaller and much lighter than the Multistrada and outdoes the Ducati in terms of capability.
In terms of ergonomics, the Tiger gets you an excellent seat. It has been intended to be a comfortable long-distance touring machine, featuring lower and more forward-set pegs and a longer and lower seat that is sure to be loved by taller riders. The windscreen of the Tiger is more effective in dissipating the wind blast and is easier to look through.
The Ducati is designed with your lower body curled into the shape of a sporty street naked with its high and sloping pegs. The slanted seat isn't big enough to move about but is exceptionally comfortable. It can be elevated or lowered from its standard height to a much comfortable level at an extra cost. The upper body, in opposition, is upright with the wide handlebar, providing you plenty of leverage.
Every Day Is An Adventure
The Multistrada V2 and the Triumph Tiger 900 are two skilled, well-equipped adventure machines catering to the diverse likings of individuals. If you're seeking a fast and exciting road ride without bothering about frivolous things such as dilapidated roads, the Multistrada V2 is the best choice for you. It might seem expensive; however, acknowledging the semi-active suspension and other handy features, this bike is an excellent value for money. And that's not even discussing its overall performance and the on-road manners guaranteeing that it never ends the excitement.
However, the Tiger 900 is the one with the most versatile character in this category. It's as fast and much more easy to ride, within the urban area, on the highway, or along the trails. With its new triple motor, reduced size, up-spec componentry, and cool looks, this middleweight is a heck of a lot of fun.