Yesterday whilst my Hyper was having new front fork seals fitted and an MOT I took a 2014 Multistrada for a test ride. Rode the Buntingford - Baldock road which I know well so that I could compare with my Hyper. Impressions from an average rider (Not an MCN road tester): Not as tall as I expected. Easily get both feet flat on the floor. Very strange gearing for 1st gear - nothing happens till revs exceed 4,000. Compared to my bike the clutch was very light and the gear changes very smooth. When I set off it was raining so I left it in Touring Mode which gives 150 bhp. Later in the day when the sun came out and the roads dried I wanted to put the bike in Sport mode but I couldn't remember how to do it and I couldn't be bothered to stop and fiddle so left it in Tour Mode. I'm glad my Hyper doesn't have all the latest electronic gizmos and different modes, if it did I would probably just leave it in Sport Mode any way. When you accelerate hard you certainly notice the extra power, instant smile. Still I think I prefer the torque you get low down with the Hyper. Handling wise it was very good but the Hyper still wins (maybe this is only as I'm more confident on the Hyper as I've had it for 6 years). The other big difference was the engine braking was far less noticeable than on the Hyper. Again prefer the way the Hyper performs. Despite the screen I have never had so much buffeting whislt on a bike and so much noise. This was probably due to the peak on the Arai Tour X helmet. Glad my Hyper doesn't have a screen to deflect the wind away from my chest and up to my head. What I did like was having a gear indicator and a comfy seat. Conclusion: I have now tested a Diavel, Monster and Multi but I am still convinced that the Hyper is the most fun. No trade in (I couldn't anyway as I've mutilated my Hyper). May buy a gear indicator though. Expecting to be shot down in flames from the Multi brigade but I guess its horses for courses.
I've been seriously considering getting a multi but I just don't need one. Most of my riding is around wales with the occasional venture to the TT or something (NW200 this year). My wife won't come near the bike and for just me I can take plenty of luggage and still have fun. Even though I've only got the baby 796 it surprises a lot of people how quick it is (don't know how much difference the few mods I've done make). My mates on their KTM set's and gs' can't pull on me at all up to 100 and buy the time they do we're into the next bends and I'm still with them. I do like the idea of the longer valve and belt service but not worth paying all the extra for that.
Always worth having a test ride on one - you would certainly notice a difference in power between the Multi and the 796. I'm glad I've done it and reaffirmed that for me the Hyper is the best bike for my needs. Enjoy the NW200!
Test riding could be dangerous though I'd probably like the power too much and buy one. My mate went down cardiff just for a look on Tues and put his gs in for one.
Nice write up Moses. I've been toying with a pikes peak but I use my bike pretty much for leisure riding and think the hyper will be hard to beat.
