It’s an interesting picture. It certainly appears to be the V4 engine, but I don’t get the 19" front wheel, the swing arm or the trellis subframe. I’m assuming this is an early mule test bike, checking things like wheelbase. The swing arm and the cover in the middle section might be some sort of adjuster. Who knows? I’m assuming the front wheel is geared towards the Enduro version, albeit cast that would change to spokes on the production version. Interesting stuff.
Presumably the V4 Multistrada will eventually be offered in ordinary, "S", and Enduro versions, so the factory must be testing prototypes for each variant. Except that just at the moment the factory is closed down, so probably not right now ...
Narrower tires, trellis rear frame and looks small. Even the front suspension has limited travel ( compared to a 1260) 950 type rear suspension. Perhaps this isn’t a 1260 replacement, it might be a 950 v4
At a guess that swing arm is so they can play around with the pivot point of the shock on the swing arm?
I'm really not loving that back end look. Looks like the wife's 650GS ! Maybe in the flesh it will look sweeter but I'm not holding any hopes out. Article in this months Ride mag says about the double swing arm and possible intelligent cruise for keeping distance.
Jaysus, 190!!!!! And more weight. I have enough trouble keeping the front wheel down on the Enduro and thats 40 to 50 hp less, and getting it on the centre stand gives me a bloody hernia!
I just dont see the need for more than 150 bhp on a road bike or more ballast. The manufactures seem to be heading the wrong way.
They used to say that when your cars made 50BHP - then 100BHP.... We all know you need POWER.... No I agree on the road 150 BHP is plenty - but your right hand can limit it - just because it has 200HP does not mean you have to use it all..
