The Multistrada and Multistrada Dark share the same 620 cc engine and a number of dedicated components that set them aside from the 1000's, but still maintain the same personality and versatility of the Multistrada concept. The Multistrada and Multistrada Dark are the perfect machines for riders who demand the versatility of these unique motorcycles that is even easier to ride than its 1000cc counterparts.
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Style
These entry level models are designed to facilitate access to the Multistrada world for riders who are attracted to this motorcycle's unique attributes, but seek a lighter, lower and easier to ride model. The Multistrada and Multistrada Dark share the same highly successful style features, plus all the functional and stylistic improvements suggested by riders who have clocked up high mileage on a Multistrada. That means that even these smaller engined Multistradas share the same higher screen and the same redesigned seat as the rest of the range. These entry Multistradas (there is no designation in the name to identify the engine size) nevertheless feature a number of dedicated components, like the double sided swing arm similar in design to that of the Monster, and integrated die cast rider and passenger footrests. Other items of equipment may look identical to those of the Multistrada 1000 models but differ in technical specifications. The fuel tank is one such component; this has a reduced 15 litres capacity, more than enough to guarantee excellent autonomy with the 620 cc engine's low fuel consumption. Another difference is the simplified instrument panel which does without on-board computer functions to keep costs down and enable the Multistrada to sell at an extremely competitive price. The Multistrada and Multistrada Dark are further characterised by dedicated equipment like the three spoke alloy wheels. The most affordable Multistrada is the Dark, characterised as its name suggests by its matt black colour scheme and featuring a single front disk.
Chassis
As with the original Multistrada 1000 DS, the new Multistrada features a frame of very similar dimensions to that of the 999, but with a lower seat height to make this easy-to-ride machine easier still to handle. This latest addition to the Ducati range remains faithful to tradition with its round section tubular trellis frame of exactly the same size as that of the Multistrada 1000 DS. The most evident difference lies in the rear end, where the single sided swing arm has been replaced by a more conventional double sided swing arm. Suspension is provided by a Marzocchi 43 mm upside down front fork and a Sachs rear monoshock with adjustable preload and rebound. The braking system features a rear disk and two 300 mm front disks with floating calipers operated by a new generation front master cylinder. The entry level Dark also incorporates another variation in the form of a highly effective 320 mm single front disk.
Engine
The 620 cc engine was chosen for the Multistrada for its smoothness and ease of control, two appreciable qualities that are farther improved with the introduction of the APTC clutch. The APTC clutch dramatically reduces lever operating effort, ensures more gradual engagement , and incorporates a racing derived "slipper" device to reduce the tendency for rear wheel lock-up during aggressive downshifting. These features make the 620 the perfect engine for new riders while still maintaining its appeal to more experienced riders. The two valve per cylinder 620 cc engine packs more than enough power and torque to give the Multistrada enviable agility on all types of road and, like all Ducati twins, meets the requirements of Euro2 emission standards.
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