Ducati reveals new Multistrada 1260 Enduro

ALMOST A YEAR after it launched the new Multistrada 1260, Ducati has unveiled the 1260 Enduro, combining the globetrotting capability of the Enduro’s previous guise with the new 1262cc Testastretta DVT engine.

The original Multistrada Enduro made its debut back in 2016, featuring the 1198cc powertrain of the last generation Multistrada. As Ducati’s first travel enduro, it was highly capable both on and off-road. But for 2019, the Italian manufacturer has further refined the model, with not only a new powertrain, but new electronics, and revised ergonomics.

Featuring the 158hp, 1262 cc Testastretta DVT with variable cam timing, the new Multistrada 1260 Enduro will benefit from smooth and plentiful pulling power from the bottom of the rev range, which not only makes the bike more fun to ride, but also allows for less frequent gear shifts. And for those necessary gear changes, there’s the DQS (Ducati Quick Shift), which allows fluid and clutchless up and downshifts.

Alongside the DQS, the Enduro will feature a ride by wire throttle, giving smoother power delivery, and a standard electronics package including cruise control, riding modes, Bosch Cornering ABS, cornering lights, wheelie control, traction control and vehicle hold control.

To make the machine more accessible, Ducati’s engineers have revised the ergonomics of the new 1260 Enduro, lowering the seat, handlebars and centre of gravity, and introduced recalibrated electronic semi-active Sachs suspension, with 185 mm of travel both front and rear. This suspension, combined with the spoked wheels – 19” at the front and 17” at the rear and a 30-litre fuel tank (giving a range more than 280 miles) will make the new Multistrasda Enduro the ultimate adventure machine.

A new Human Machine Interface (HMI), displayed on a 5-inch TFT colour dash, features, as does the Ducati Multimedia System (DMS). The latter connects the bike to the rider's phone via Bluetooth, allowing them to answer calls, read text messages and flick through music. Riders will also be able to adjust their machines further, access maintenance info and record performance and routes via the Ducati Link App.

The new Multistrada 1260 Enduro will be available in Ducati Red and Sand from early next year. Of course there will be a wide range of accessories, available in various configurations in the Touring, Sport, Urban and Enduro packages.

We'll be riding the Multistrada 1260 Enduro on launch next week in Italy. Keep an eye out for our first ride review...