Hi all, I have my heart set on buying myself a Multistrada with a max budget of £8500, so I'm looking at the 1200S, circa 2012-14 although I have noticed a few 2015 models available in that budget. Having read a few threads on here already, i think I prefer the spec of the 2013 and later models. However as long as its clean, has a full service history and below 20k miles I think I'll be happy. Is the S a big advantage over the base model? If you have any buying advice or if you know of any bikes for sale I'd love to here from you. Thanks
Hi, Richy and welcome, you have set you heart, what about your brain, apart from the GT which has luggage, center stand, engine bars with driving lamps, and comfort seats on top of the S model, which has the skyhook semi active suspension. I would have the base all day long IMHO. Manually adjustable suspension that can be set perfectly with the help of a guru ,for me as I probably weigh the same as an average Italian rider and pillion, then add bells and whistles later, as and when required. Its a case of thinking about what you really need in your life. You have taken the first step by picking the Multistrada!
I can’t really help with your question Richy as I don’t have a multi (yet) but welcome to the Forum. If I were to get one (which will probably happen one day) and I were in the market today I’d go for the S model, with luggage (assuming you’ll be touring). Better suspension and IMO you’ll find it easier to resell over a base model when the time comes. Good luck in your search and don’t forget to let us know when you find one.
My poor experience with the reliability of the electronic suspension on my 2010 sport was the reason I didn't buy an S model panigale. Manual every time for me.
I’m thinking the electronic suspension might be useful as the bike will go from commuting to two up touring. But maybe I could save some money getting a base model, I know once the novelty wears off how much will I use the gadgets. Food for thought, cheers Bob
Hi Glen, I read a lot of info stating problems with the 2010 model, I was aiming for a 2012 plus thinking the factory would have ironed out early faults by then.
@Richy Lambe Welcome to the forum. I prefer the manual suspension as well. Easier and cheaper to service. Moreover, the money saved can be used for upgrades or accessories.
I have the last of the 1200s models on a 15 plate. It came with all the luggage. I constantly switch the suspension between sport and touring, dependent on the type of road. It's a simple job to change for touring, when you have luggage and pillion. It's brilliant. For £50, you and your passenger with your gear could get the suspension set for your weight. It's never let me down and I have put 10k miles on it in the last 2 years. Fantastic bike to ride and comfortable all day long. The only thing you need to personalise is the screen to reduce the wind blast. I'm biased as I have one so I recommend it.
Try and find the newest one you can with the lowest mileage and preferably some sort of warranty (personally I would buy the S version if possible)
I wonder if you had flicked through this one? https://www.ducatiforum.co.uk/threads/which-1200-is-the-best-and-why.65847/
Hi bud, Thanks for that link, some interesting posts there. Still can’t decide whether to get the S or Base model. I’m jumping off a 1995 VFR, so any bike is going to feel like a big improvement! I’ve accepted I don’t need electronic suspension. There’s a 2015 S model I’m considering, 18k miles FDSH £8600. I Prefer the dash and facelift over the previous version, but that’s merely cosmetic. Would a 2014 be a better buy? though they’re not really any cheaper! What does concern me is 2015 is the first year of DVT.
There were very few issues with the DVT's, heated grips are a bit less effective. I think it's a smoother better bike, the S model has the LED lights which are a great improvement and the electronic suspension. Sounds like a reasonable bike with that milage and service history. You might be due a big service though at that milage, which is expensive.
For sure, get the touring version of whatever you decide...with the main stand and 3 boxes. If you dont, you are into £0000's when you want to add them. and you WILL want to add them The 'base' DVT is not very basic, it still has cruise, traction control, abs , cornering abs, heated grips and the better DVT engine. It does not have electronic suspension (do you REALLY need that?) It does not have LED headlights although upgrading the lights is a very simple job. Its a very capable motorcycle and better equipped than many Jap special editions ...Your budget will buy one with all the trimmings.
Thanks what’s people’s thoughts; 2016 (66 plate) Multistrada 15k. Miles Desmo service done for sale Centre stand Heated Grips Full Luggage Free delivery £8490
Obviously difficult at the moment but have you ridden any of the versions you are considering, or any Ducati’s for that matter? Coming from a 25yr old Honda, dare i say it, you might not like it?
I’d ask for a price reduction to omit their service and get a main dealer or known independent specialist to do the desmo service. Other than that looks good value. IMO of course Andy
Hi Ackers I had a short ride on a 2010 model last year when I first started looking at them. I do like V twins. Prior to the VFR (a 7 years prior!) I was the proud owner of an 05 RSV Mille Factory so I have some experience
