Intro

Ducati has launched the 2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS, a numbered-series flagship that brings the Desmosedici Stradale superbike engine to the Multistrada line for the first time, without sacrificing long-distance usability. Why it matters: it combines superbike pace with touring tech – radar-based ADAS, semi-active Öhlins, and weight-saving hardware – to take on the sportiest big ADV-tourers.

2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS: What’s new?

At launch, Ducati said the Multistrada V4 RS is the most performance-focused Multistrada ever, with the 1,103 cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine, dry STM-EVO clutch, Akrapovič titanium muffler and shorter final drive than the Pikes Peak. The RS adds a titanium subframe, Marchesini forged 17-inch wheels and lots of carbon to shave weight and improve responses.

Engine and performance: the Desmosedici heart

Power is a claimed 180 hp at 12,250 rpm with 87 lb-ft (118 Nm) of torque at 9,500 rpm. This is from the Euro 5+ Desmosedici Stradale engine, which also features rear-cylinder deactivation for heat management. Practical bits include rear-cylinder deactivation for heat management and DQS 2.0 quickshifter with a sensor on the shift drum for snappier shifts. You should feel more immediate acceleration with the shorter final ratio, but no 0–100 km/h times are listed yet.

Design and weight-saving measures

A dedicated RS livery, carbon-fiber beak and handguards and a titanium subframe show intent while accommodating panniers and a top box. Geometry is aggressively road-focused with a 25.7° rake, 4.7-inch trail and 62.6–62.7-inch wheelbase, and the seat adjusts between 33.1 and 33.9 inches to balance sport with touring comfort.Wet weight is a claimed 496 lb (225 kg) without fuel. This weight savings comes from the forged wheels, a carbon fiber ‘beak’ and handguards, and a lightweight battery. The titanium subframe alone shaves off 5.5 lb (2.5 kg) compared to a steel unit. RS brings new Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO) predictive algorithm suite and five Riding Modes (Race, Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet) and four suspension presets (Track, Dynamic, Touring, Low Grip). A radar system enables Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection, all displayed on a 6.5-inch TFT with RS-specific graphics and full-map navigation.

Price and availability

The Multistrada V4 RS has a starting MSRP of $39,995 in the US. The bikes are expected to arrive in European dealerships in November 2025, with US deliveries to follow in March 2026. Regional pricing and on-sale dates outside the US will be confirmed as Ducati finalizes allocations.

Compared to the Pikes Peak

The RS sits above the Pikes Peak on performance, with the Panigale-derived Desmosedici Stradale, dry clutch and shorter final drive, and titanium and carbon to shave weight. You should feel more direct, track-bred with the Öhlins Smart EC 2.0, forged 17s and braking hardware from the superbikes.

Also read: Is Benelli’s TRK 502X Still the Adventure Bike Bargain? A Price Hike Puts It to the Test

Closing note

For riders who want superbike urgency without abandoning long-haul practicality, the Multistrada V4 RS pushes the segment boundary – with a price and spec sheet to match. As the first Multistrada to feature the Desmosedici Stradale engine, the V4 RS is positioned as a distinct and limited-series model in Ducati’s lineup.