Got one myself, after owning a GS i prefer the overall look and feel of the Ducati, makes every ride feel a bit special, and you don't see one around every corner. Good review though thanks.
...as a Ducati owner I get the "every ride is special thing" - they defo appeal to the heart....where as for me the GS is a "head" bike....so depends I guess what you want/need the bike for. Cheers for watching - TMF
I’ve had mine for 10 years! Reflashed ECU, power commander, down a tooth at the front, wheels from a 1198 and a whole host of cosmetic upgrades, dropped 11mm at the front, Sportec M9rr’s and I love it 😉
@@ukcadjockey Going down a tooth at the front really worked for me. My bike makes (on one dyno, they all read differently) 147hp at the wheel, mapped by M Tec racing in Hull and the two together make for a big supermoto kind of feel. Closed loop is gone and I have a Mivv link pipe and cut down silencer in black titanium. Its a red bike, but most of the other bits that wer grey or silver have been blacked out. Handguards are gone and have six micro indicators, two each side at the front and the usual two at the back. Forks are polished smooth and reanodised and I have Rizoma triangular mirrors. The Calipers are now black with red writing on them, black handlebars......... oooh, forgot the tail tidy and the lithiron battery......
Good review. I rode a 2013 R1200 GS for four days in Spain and loved it. I could not believe how well the bike handled given it's looks and upright seating position. Came back to the States intent on buying one until I test rode a 2013 Multistrada. Needless to say I'm now a Ducati owner. Both are fantastic bikes, can't really go wrong with either one. I still do more sport riding than long distance touring and felt the Ducati was the superior bike in that category. Cheers.
Hi Matt - glad you approve of the video, thanks for your kind words and for commenting. I agree with you completely, both great bikes....and the Ducati really is a sports bike in adventure clothing, a rapid bit of kit! Enjoy the bike and ride that thing carefully! - TMF
Ha ha I took the BMW and duc out bk to bk two weeks ago and loved the duc. Hence why I'm buying one. You did a good review. And I think these bikes are horses for courses. I no wen I buy the duc I'll miss comforts from BMW. But it was the keyless ignition that won it for me. Love not fumbling round for key wen kitted up with touring gear. Also thought the bike was more balanced it felt like getting on my old Fazer 600. Anyway good vid and good luck with ur purchase.
Thanks FF6022 - I made my purchase just before Christmas and am loving it! As you say, these bikes are really aimed at different riders - ex-sportsters for the Ducati and comfort seeking technofreaks for the BMW. Both fabulous bikes IMO (but both incredibly expensive!!!). Enjoy.....TMF
Only just spotted this in your older vids. Owned the 2012 Multistrada 1200S touring for 18 months, loved riding the bike, its handling was much improved by fitting pure road tyres. I unfortunately had an absolute warranty nightmare with the bike, rear brake failure, high speed cut outs, front discs, rear suspension module, keyless ignition module failure and surging that required it to be returned to the dealer SEVEN times. Didn’t dare own this bike out of warranty, took a massive depreciation hit and chopped it in. I know you like the Panigale but my experience has totally put me off the brand. I've since owned a Versys 1000 and an MT 10 both with perfect reliability.
Ewww, sounds nasty Banditmanuk....touch wood my Panigale (bar the chain rusting issue) has been good as gold and I'm loving riding it....but that said, it gets nowhere near as much use as my other bikes. Thanks for watching - glad to see my old videos getting an airing :0)
Wow it's been a long time since the Multi 2100S was out. I personally have a 2014 Multi 1200GT which has all the options in Ducati's catalog. Even oversized side cases. I have since reduced the side case bags with the standard size. I found the super sized cases rather unsightly. After almost ten years of ownership, i still love the bike and enjoy the ride it provides. Its the best suspension short of the BMW RT. On rough roads it beats out the R1200RT ride, being a true Multi-Road type bike. My other touring bike is a BMW K1300GT and it is a better long distance bike, but its not a Multiload Bike and the Multi suspension is better than the K1300GT.
Enjoyed that-thank you! I've just bought a 2012 Tiger 1050 and wondering if the Multistrada might have been a better option. Which bike of the two do you prefer?
The Crumble You're welcome sir! As with all these things it depends primarily what you want to use the bike for - if you want very comfy long distance transport with a lovely engine, flexibility and top value for money then the Tiger wins. If you want high speed, electrickery and money is no object, then the Ducati wins. You'll love the 1050, great bike....all the best - TMF
Great video sir. I have to say I've been looking at the new GS, Multistrada & the Explorer XC in khaki green. Not test rode any yet...... To me the Explorer just looks cool. I already have a Daytona 675 and 2nd gen ZZR 1400 so really looking for a robust ride with comfort factor over long journeys and some off road ability, though this will be minimal. I want a bike I can use more during the autumn and winter on our poor UK pot holed roads. The Explorer XC is definitely more bang for buck. I think I'm leaning towards this more than anything else. BTW, which did you eventually go for?
Hi Anthony - thanks for the kind words - all those bikes are great, you've got to ride them really to see which you like. I was keen on the Multistrada until I rode it against the BMW and so the Beemer is what I now have in the garage (check out my other vids for plenty on my thoughts on it since the purchase). I agree the Triumph is good value, but I think it will feel a little "top heavy" compared to the BMW....
Interesting watching this years later - you sit on the fence much less here! I wonder what's changed - become more zen? Or is it because you were thinking of buying one yourself?
Always like your videos as you have the same interests as myself.Love motorcycling,go skiing every year and did a bit of flying as a PPL until it got a bit expensive. I suspect that you are a professional pilot as you have the pilot's radio voice,if you know what I mean. Very much enjoyed your video of the GS and comparing it to the Ducati, it seemed quieter and more refined? Will be interested in seeing which bike you eventually get to replace the Tiger. Andrew
Hi Andy, You obviously have good taste! ;0) Really pleased you've enjoyed the videos so far and I promise to get another up on my new bike soon - Since I bought my new machine it hasn't stopped raining + I've been out of the country a fair bit - so I haven't had much time to record another video, but it's very much on my "to do" list. Stay tuned! - TMF
Hi mate, absolutely loving your content , probably touring (depending on covid restrictions) later in the year to the pyrenees and surrounding areas , I've a budget of about £6k and wondered what your thoughts are re the multistrada 1200 around an 11 plate or a triumph tiger 1050 ? I started riding in 97 on a thundercat, done the TL1000s and R1 stuff , but really like the seating position of the 2 bikes mentioned, plus I'd like my riding to be a bit more chilled with the fun available if and when required !! Any advice would be appreciated 👍
Multistrada. All day long. I've had a 2012 mts touring for about 3 years, and had a 2013 tiger sport with all the extras from new. The muttley is by far the better bike for handling, power, comfort, features, grin factor.
The MTS1200, like all bikes, is sensitive to tire design. The OEM Scorpion Trail are competent as a sporty tire, and they work well enough on gravel and in the wet but they squirm around and lack the overall stability and feel of other tires I've ridden. The generation 2 Scorpions which come on the 2015 are dramatically better in terms of stability, roll profile, etc. For reference, I had the gen-1 Scorpions on my Hyperstrada, and also the 2013 S Touring Multi I traded the hyper for . I replaced the Hyper's stock tires with Dunlop Q3s and it transformed the bike. On the MTS1200, I traded the Scorpions out for the Trail 2s at 4k miles due to tire damage on the OEMs and saw a similar improvement. My recommendation would be to go ride one again on a different set of rubber, like a Pilot Road 4 or Trail 2.
+ChrisMag100 Yes good point Chris, not only that but I understand the current bike is radically improved over the 2013 MY I rode generally. Thanks for watching and commenting - all the best - TMF
+Eoghan Hennessy Nope. Pirelli developed the Scorpion Trail specifically for the bike. Mine came on the gen 1 version of the tire and the DVT 2015 version ships with the Trail 2. The one possible exception is the pikes peak... Not sure if that one comes on the trails.
ChrisMag100 Just picked up a new 2014 pre-reg myself and it's on the scorpion. What are you running now yourself? I was thinking about the michelin pilot road 4 for a tour to the alps then swap to a pilot power 3 for the rest of the summer weekend rides. I've heard some good reviews on the Bridgestone BT30 evo too!
ChrisMag100 You're right, the 2014 1200S i test drove was on angel GT but probably is on to its second set @ 5000 miles approx. Must have been on scorpions originally
As far as cornering, the Ducati is at a completely different level. There is no way the BMW could even hang on the back of this with a competent rider, put them on a track. I love the BMW and agree with every other point, you were just a little off with that one...
Hey Stephen - I'm a Triumph man! So yes, did consider it but discounted on the lugability front (the triple engine carries it's weight so much higher) plus I just fancy a change.....my Street Triple isn't going anywhere....:0)
Stephen Forrest I feel the same way about my Triumph Tiger 1050 - love the bike, uber comfy, fabulous engine, very grunty, love the way it looks....just an effort to move about my gravel drive or when I stop at junctions because the weight is high up (I'm similar height to you at 5'8").....it's the only real reason I'm looking for a change.....
TheMissendenFlyer Look forward to seeing what you go for in the end as I am currently looking at these 3: BMW 1200 GS, Ducati Multistrada and KTM 1190 Adventure R.
Great review thanks. This pretty thing was in my "considerations box" but if you prefer the BMW over this (and I didn't really like the BMW) then I think I'll give it a miss. Am also considering the Kawasaki GTR1400 CAF, CBF etc models but it may be a bit overkill, especially on Britain's over-crowded and pot-holey roads.
Hi Russ - Depends what you're after, don't forget I'm comparing this with the water cooled, brand new for 2013 GS (a completely revised bike over the air cooled machine that I think you had a bad time with). I felt the Multistrada was nowhere near as refined as the new BMW, not quite so comfy with more vibes and frankly a bit quicker than I need - the Multistrada is a rocket ship and potential license looser in the wrong hands....not sure I could trust myself! Nice bike if you're coming from sports machines though I would think. Bit pricey for what it is given the new GS offers so much..... The GTR1400 is a rocket powered machine of course, so the MTS might suit you???
I tried a slightly older GS1200 Adventure and really didn't like the tractor style flat 2 engine, too vibey for my liking. I did however love Yamaha's XT1200 Super Tenere, fantastic bike!
I never rode the air-cooled GS but understand they have made huge improvements with the post 2013 water cooled engine (the one I rode was pretty refined given it is a horizontal twin). The Tenere gets great reviews, especially from the hard-core off road crowd, I just can't get on with the looks of the thing...every one to their own! Thanks for watching/commenting.....TMF
Thanks for great review of both the Ducati and the BMW. Like you I tested both bikes, and as a Ducati man (ST4S and 1098 Tricolore) it was difficult for me to jump ship to the BMW boxer engine ergonomics, but.... I loved the 2014 R1200 GS that i put a deposit on the adventure white. Cheers!
TheMissendenFlyer The Ducati dealers took the new MTS to Bilbao and tested it against the BMW GS and the KTM 1190a. The KTM impressed them but not the BMW. Most people go touring once or twice a year, and the rest of the time have fun.
Fine - I use my GS mainly for touring, I use my Street Triple mainly for fun....IMHO the KTM and Ducati are performance machines in "adventure" disguise...horses for courses.... ;0)
Ducati created a new category with the Multi. The road biased super adventure bike. 160+bhp machines using existing high output engines in enduro packages with fairing and bags. I never really got why journalists kept comparing the Multi to the GS. BMW’s response was not to make the GS more road biased or give it 160 horses but to take their existing sports bike and give it big enduro ergos - witness the S1000XR. This category is really less about adventure and more about sports bikes with comfortable ergos. They are sports bikes on stilts with a few concessions to touring like bags and screens. The manufacturers need to re-ignite the old category of sports tourer. What we really want is the silhouette of a sports bike but with lower pegs and higher bars. Ducati tried with the super sport and Honda tried with the latest VFR both are competent bikes but we really want 160+ horsepower. When I ride my Multi on the road I only get to use that full horsepower for a few moments each ride, and even on track you are kidding yourself if you think you are putting down 160hp for more than a hand full of seconds each lap. (Remember full horsepower is maximum throttle opening at maximum revs.) But that is what makes these bikes special, that and the noise. C’mon Ducati make a 160hp Super Sport a lot of your older well heeled customers would buy one!
I really love the look of these Multi 1200s. I was filling up at my dealer last weekend and there was a chap taking out a new 950 for a test ride. Honestly I thought it was a 1200 until I asked the sales man if it was in fact a 950 or 1200. I do love the power, noise and comfort of my 1190 R.. Although I would love to test a Multi as I think my plans for trips away are tilting away from off-road adventures to concentrating more on the smooth stuff. Great review. I don't suppose you'd be taking out a 2016/17 for a test ride/comparison any time soon?
Great video very informative. Not ridden either bike but if I only had one bike at home, it would have to be Ducati out of the two Just looks so much better .
Thanks Mark - well I thought the same, Ducati are far cooler than BMW right! I owed it to myself to ride both, and to me, the Beemer is the better bike all round (but if you just want pace go for the Duke!)...ride safe - TMF
HaHA I had the same problem on mine at first ,,how do you turn the heated grips off ?...its on the engine start button when the engine is running ...great reviews on the type of bikes I like ..mark
Thanks for putting me out of my misery Mark, and for the kind comments. I didn't find the MTS switchgear that logical, one of the reasons I went for the GS over the Duke, I think they may have improved things for this latest model just launched though....so maybe back on the radar for the future, if only they had the integrated satnav.......
TheMissendenFlyer I have the 2010 multistrada ,myself and my wife are demo riding the 2014 gs1200 from cw dorchester next sat weather permitting,really looking forward to riding one ,I tried the 1200 rt a year ago which was nice ..so cant wait to try the gs ..thanks mark
That's something I've learnt! Here in the UK it means the opposite in the context of speed (but can also mean small in the context of a house for example)....and they say we speak the same language!
Mate you had your mind made up on the BMW before you'd even done anything on the Ducati. The Ducati is a bike for people who want the best all round bike and don't have a spare sports bike at home. Very bias review that totally missed the point of the type of bike the Ducati is.
Have to say when I watched this I did think ..this guy's already made his mind up on a GS.But today I finally got the test ride one I almost brought one based on reviews alone and painfully I have to agree with everything u say. I found that the riding position really odd I'm 5;9 so not the tallest but the bars r very close to you and pegs feel behind u and tilted forward i didn't feel plated on the pegs and found the wrist bending back with how the bars are positioned (stock)Genuinly sad that it wasn't how about 50 reviews I watched said. Looks wise and power it's what I'd want .but after I rode today I took the tiger straight out it was a 2016 as I'm on a budget of 7 to 7.5k UK pounds and it's just effortless and seemed to turn so nibbly etc if it had a touch more power I'd have it but atm I'm back to the drawing board hoping something fits me perfect coming from sports bike after sports bike . I don't know if the Tigers slow so to speak or of its that easy to ride and quiet it just feels that way.
TheMissendenFlyer 2015 1050 very nice to ride. I had heart set on multistrada but just didn't feel right and I've made the mistake before of following heart not head haha
I thought I was watching a Ducati review… must have said the word “Beemer” over 100 times 😂.. This is more of a comparison of a bike that I would say isn’t really competition, more the S1000XR. Love most of your reviews, this should have been “Raving about a beemer while riding a Ducati” 😅
good vid.. as is the BMW.. Still prefer the tiger and If I could find a way to move the sprint and buy your tiger I would.. Keep up the good work on the vids...
Thanks blokeinlondon, glad you approve of my efforts! I agree that the Tiger is a darn good looking bike (I probably prefer its looks over the Duke and the Beemer)...but there's no doubt these modern technical machines are in a different league. Don't rush on shifting your Sprint, my ol' Tiger is now long gone to its new owner :0(
I have the 2010 Multistrada and is a beautiful bike for almost any terrain. Especially the 2013 with the new lights and the new suspension one word says it all -fantastic-. The way I see it: the BMW can be your every day wife, wash the dishes, takes the kids to school etc. The Ducati is your hot girlfriend. She can do the everyday things for you but you don't want her to do your laundry so.. you keep her for the weekend.
Well put, I am lucky to have ten bikes and have ridden almost everything in my motorcycling business career. I took a GS to Austria, with luggage, did the Grossglockner pass, comfy, economic, reasonable fun if a little "staid" the Multi would have trashed the BMW in sport mode down the pass if you had your head on as it's no slouch, depends what you want. I am taking a Hypermotard to the west coast of Scotland, pain to get there but sooo much fun round the single track roads as I am a 55 year old nutter who's ridden since 16 Ten bikes = 2 wives and 8 hot girlfriends,,,,,,,,,,happy days!!
l would like to give you some constructive feedback. Your review is biased. If the title of your video was "here's why you should buy the GS" it would be truely a complete explanatory review of the multistrada and why u shouldn't pick it compared to the GS. The way you talk about the two bikes, is just biased.
Calummckinlay888 Hi Calummckinlay888 I agree with all you say - but the BMW instrumentation is so much better if you buy the (optional) Navigator V that provides loads of extra functionality and replicates instrument displays.....
Agreed - but then you have three different 'dials' just need the Navigator. I reckon they will soon replace with just a Navigator + with all the stuff you need in one screen.
Hilarious - you remind me of when I was at a BMW car dealer once trying to choose between a Beemer and a Merc, the BMW salesman said "you're far too young for a Mercedes sir"....I bought the Beemer, I have a Merc now!.....so you're probably right - TMF
Rob Reed I have to agree Rob... definately some bias going on there! Every other reviewer/critic has said the Ducati is the best bike in it's class - except this review, most odd.
...bear in mind this is the "old" MTS - I've not ridden the current model and I understand improvements have been made....also this is just my opinion and it's as valid as anyone else's! For me at the time I rode both machines, the BMW was the better bike for my purposes...
Got one myself, after owning a GS i prefer the overall look and feel of the Ducati, makes every ride feel a bit special, and you don't see one around every corner. Good review though thanks.
...as a Ducati owner I get the "every ride is special thing" - they defo appeal to the heart....where as for me the GS is a "head" bike....so depends I guess what you want/need the bike for. Cheers for watching - TMF
Did someone mention a Beemer???
Who's watching in 2020?
I’ve had mine for 10 years! Reflashed ECU, power commander, down a tooth at the front, wheels from a 1198 and a whole host of cosmetic upgrades, dropped 11mm at the front, Sportec M9rr’s and I love it 😉
Me! I’m looking to buy a 2014 bike!
@@Ukmongoose3
Hmmm, mines a 2012, way too stock, I like the sound of some of those mods you did
@@ukcadjockey Going down a tooth at the front really worked for me. My bike makes (on one dyno, they all read differently) 147hp at the wheel, mapped by M Tec racing in Hull and the two together make for a big supermoto kind of feel. Closed loop is gone and I have a Mivv link pipe and cut down silencer in black titanium. Its a red bike, but most of the other bits that wer grey or silver have been blacked out. Handguards are gone and have six micro indicators, two each side at the front and the usual two at the back. Forks are polished smooth and reanodised and I have Rizoma triangular mirrors. The Calipers are now black with red writing on them, black handlebars......... oooh, forgot the tail tidy and the lithiron battery......
Great video. Just watching 6 years later in 2019. Might pick up a used Multistrada.
Can’t believe I’ve been making videos this long!!
TheMissendenFlyer - what a legacy you are leaving for the future biking fraternity, great review as always!
Same! 😁👊🏼
Good review. I rode a 2013 R1200 GS for four days in Spain and loved it. I could not believe how well the bike handled given it's looks and upright seating position. Came back to the States intent on buying one until I test rode a 2013 Multistrada. Needless to say I'm now a Ducati owner. Both are fantastic bikes, can't really go wrong with either one. I still do more sport riding than long distance touring and felt the Ducati was the superior bike in that category. Cheers.
Hi Matt - glad you approve of the video, thanks for your kind words and for commenting. I agree with you completely, both great bikes....and the Ducati really is a sports bike in adventure clothing, a rapid bit of kit! Enjoy the bike and ride that thing carefully! - TMF
Ha ha I took the BMW and duc out bk to bk two weeks ago and loved the duc. Hence why I'm buying one. You did a good review. And I think these bikes are horses for courses. I no wen I buy the duc I'll miss comforts from BMW. But it was the keyless ignition that won it for me. Love not fumbling round for key wen kitted up with touring gear. Also thought the bike was more balanced it felt like getting on my old Fazer 600. Anyway good vid and good luck with ur purchase.
Thanks FF6022 - I made my purchase just before Christmas and am loving it! As you say, these bikes are really aimed at different riders - ex-sportsters for the Ducati and comfort seeking technofreaks for the BMW. Both fabulous bikes IMO (but both incredibly expensive!!!). Enjoy.....TMF
I think the Duc is more comfortable and less buzzy at higher speeds that I like to cruise at. Good review!
+Eoghan Hennessy Thanks for stopping by Eoghan and cheers for the kind words....all the best - TMF
TheMissendenFlyer I think I prefer sitting close to the front wheel from riding supermoto and dirt bikes. Your review is spot on though - take care :)
Only just spotted this in your older vids. Owned the 2012 Multistrada 1200S touring for 18 months, loved riding the bike, its handling was much improved by fitting pure road tyres. I unfortunately had an absolute warranty nightmare with the bike, rear brake failure, high speed cut outs, front discs, rear suspension module, keyless ignition module failure and surging that required it to be returned to the dealer SEVEN times. Didn’t dare own this bike out of warranty, took a massive depreciation hit and chopped it in.
I know you like the Panigale but my experience has totally put me off the brand. I've since owned a Versys 1000 and an MT 10 both with perfect reliability.
Ewww, sounds nasty Banditmanuk....touch wood my Panigale (bar the chain rusting issue) has been good as gold and I'm loving riding it....but that said, it gets nowhere near as much use as my other bikes. Thanks for watching - glad to see my old videos getting an airing :0)
Wow it's been a long time since the Multi 2100S was out. I personally have a 2014 Multi 1200GT which has all the options in Ducati's catalog. Even oversized side cases. I have since reduced the side case bags with the standard size. I found the super sized cases rather unsightly. After almost ten years of ownership, i still love the bike and enjoy the ride it provides. Its the best suspension short of the BMW RT. On rough roads it beats out the R1200RT ride, being a true Multi-Road type bike. My other touring bike is a BMW K1300GT and it is a better long distance bike, but its not a Multiload Bike and the Multi suspension is better than the K1300GT.
Thanks for watching!
Enjoyed that-thank you! I've just bought a 2012 Tiger 1050 and wondering if the Multistrada might have been a better option. Which bike of the two do you prefer?
The Crumble You're welcome sir! As with all these things it depends primarily what you want to use the bike for - if you want very comfy long distance transport with a lovely engine, flexibility and top value for money then the Tiger wins. If you want high speed, electrickery and money is no object, then the Ducati wins. You'll love the 1050, great bike....all the best - TMF
REALLY Crumble? ;)
The best of Multistrada…. TOP
Great video sir. I have to say I've been looking at the new GS, Multistrada & the Explorer XC in khaki green. Not test rode any yet......
To me the Explorer just looks cool. I already have a Daytona 675 and 2nd gen ZZR 1400 so really looking for a robust ride with comfort factor over long journeys and some off road ability, though this will be minimal. I want a bike I can use more during the autumn and winter on our poor UK pot holed roads. The Explorer XC is definitely more bang for buck. I think I'm leaning towards this more than anything else.
BTW, which did you eventually go for?
Hi Anthony - thanks for the kind words - all those bikes are great, you've got to ride them really to see which you like. I was keen on the Multistrada until I rode it against the BMW and so the Beemer is what I now have in the garage (check out my other vids for plenty on my thoughts on it since the purchase). I agree the Triumph is good value, but I think it will feel a little "top heavy" compared to the BMW....
anthonyrgray the explorer is by far the better bike 👍
Interesting watching this years later - you sit on the fence much less here! I wonder what's changed - become more zen? Or is it because you were thinking of buying one yourself?
I dunno - possibly the former....
Always like your videos as you have the same interests as myself.Love motorcycling,go skiing every year and did a bit of flying as a PPL until it got a bit expensive. I suspect that you are a professional pilot as you have the pilot's radio voice,if you know what I mean.
Very much enjoyed your video of the GS and comparing it to the Ducati, it seemed quieter and more refined?
Will be interested in seeing which bike you eventually get to replace the Tiger.
Andrew
Hi Andy,
You obviously have good taste! ;0) Really pleased you've enjoyed the videos so far and I promise to get another up on my new bike soon - Since I bought my new machine it hasn't stopped raining + I've been out of the country a fair bit - so I haven't had much time to record another video, but it's very much on my "to do" list.
Stay tuned! - TMF
Hi mate, absolutely loving your content , probably touring (depending on covid restrictions) later in the year to the pyrenees and surrounding areas , I've a budget of about £6k and wondered what your thoughts are re the multistrada 1200 around an 11 plate or a triumph tiger 1050 ? I started riding in 97 on a thundercat, done the TL1000s and R1 stuff , but really like the seating position of the 2 bikes mentioned, plus I'd like my riding to be a bit more chilled with the fun available if and when required !! Any advice would be appreciated 👍
Multistrada!
Multistrada. All day long.
I've had a 2012 mts touring for about 3 years, and had a 2013 tiger sport with all the extras from new. The muttley is by far the better bike for handling, power, comfort, features, grin factor.
The MTS1200, like all bikes, is sensitive to tire design. The OEM Scorpion Trail are competent as a sporty tire, and they work well enough on gravel and in the wet but they squirm around and lack the overall stability and feel of other tires I've ridden. The generation 2 Scorpions which come on the 2015 are dramatically better in terms of stability, roll profile, etc. For reference, I had the gen-1 Scorpions on my Hyperstrada, and also the 2013 S Touring Multi I traded the hyper for . I replaced the Hyper's stock tires with Dunlop Q3s and it transformed the bike. On the MTS1200, I traded the Scorpions out for the Trail 2s at 4k miles due to tire damage on the OEMs and saw a similar improvement. My recommendation would be to go ride one again on a different set of rubber, like a Pilot Road 4 or Trail 2.
+ChrisMag100 Yes good point Chris, not only that but I understand the current bike is radically improved over the 2013 MY I rode generally. Thanks for watching and commenting - all the best - TMF
+ChrisMag100 I think the 1200S comes on Pirelli Angel GT
+Eoghan Hennessy Nope. Pirelli developed the Scorpion Trail specifically for the bike. Mine came on the gen 1 version of the tire and the DVT 2015 version ships with the Trail 2. The one possible exception is the pikes peak... Not sure if that one comes on the trails.
ChrisMag100 Just picked up a new 2014 pre-reg myself and it's on the scorpion. What are you running now yourself? I was thinking about the michelin pilot road 4 for a tour to the alps then swap to a pilot power 3 for the rest of the summer weekend rides. I've heard some good reviews on the Bridgestone BT30 evo too!
ChrisMag100 You're right, the 2014 1200S i test drove was on angel GT but probably is on to its second set @ 5000 miles approx. Must have been on scorpions originally
As far as cornering, the Ducati is at a completely different level. There is no way the BMW could even hang on the back of this with a competent rider, put them on a track. I love the BMW and agree with every other point, you were just a little off with that one...
So what bike are you going to get? I got the 2013 r1200gs and I like my bike. This summer I plan to go to the tabot train n.s Canada
Have to wait and see - bit too cold to do a VLOG on my new beast just yet!
How about the Triumph explorer ? Plenty power and shaft drive have you thought about that ?
Hey Stephen - I'm a Triumph man! So yes, did consider it but discounted on the lugability front (the triple engine carries it's weight so much higher) plus I just fancy a change.....my Street Triple isn't going anywhere....:0)
Yeh I had an explorer for 6 months , loved the grunt and handling but it is very tall I am only 5 ft 7 so got fed up slinging my leg over lol.
Stephen Forrest I feel the same way about my Triumph Tiger 1050 - love the bike, uber comfy, fabulous engine, very grunty, love the way it looks....just an effort to move about my gravel drive or when I stop at junctions because the weight is high up (I'm similar height to you at 5'8").....it's the only real reason I'm looking for a change.....
TheMissendenFlyer Look forward to seeing what you go for in the end as I am currently looking at these 3: BMW 1200 GS, Ducati Multistrada and KTM 1190 Adventure R.
Great review thanks. This pretty thing was in my "considerations box" but if you prefer the BMW over this (and I didn't really like the BMW) then I think I'll give it a miss.
Am also considering the Kawasaki GTR1400 CAF, CBF etc models but it may be a bit overkill, especially on Britain's over-crowded and pot-holey roads.
Hi Russ - Depends what you're after, don't forget I'm comparing this with the water cooled, brand new for 2013 GS (a completely revised bike over the air cooled machine that I think you had a bad time with). I felt the Multistrada was nowhere near as refined as the new BMW, not quite so comfy with more vibes and frankly a bit quicker than I need - the Multistrada is a rocket ship and potential license looser in the wrong hands....not sure I could trust myself! Nice bike if you're coming from sports machines though I would think. Bit pricey for what it is given the new GS offers so much..... The GTR1400 is a rocket powered machine of course, so the MTS might suit you???
I tried a slightly older GS1200 Adventure and really didn't like the tractor style flat 2 engine, too vibey for my liking.
I did however love Yamaha's XT1200 Super Tenere, fantastic bike!
I never rode the air-cooled GS but understand they have made huge improvements with the post 2013 water cooled engine (the one I rode was pretty refined given it is a horizontal twin). The Tenere gets great reviews, especially from the hard-core off road crowd, I just can't get on with the looks of the thing...every one to their own! Thanks for watching/commenting.....TMF
Awesome review... Thanks.
BTW, It's... Testastretta 11°. As in the 11° of valve overlap.
Glad you liked. thanks....and I'll take your word for that ;0) Cheers GB, ride safe - TMF
TheMissendenFlyer
ashonbikes.com/content/multistrada-testastretta-11-degrees
If you look closely at the clutch cover, it says... Testastretta 11°
Thanks for great review of both the Ducati and the BMW. Like you I tested both bikes, and as a Ducati man (ST4S and 1098 Tricolore) it was difficult for me to jump ship to the BMW boxer engine ergonomics, but.... I loved the 2014 R1200 GS that i put a deposit on the adventure white. Cheers!
Hi DT - Great choice ;0) ....but then I am now biased. You'll love the bike.....enjoy - TMF
TheMissendenFlyer The Ducati dealers took the new MTS to Bilbao and tested it against the BMW GS and the KTM 1190a. The KTM impressed them but not the BMW.
Most people go touring once or twice a year, and the rest of the time have fun.
Fine - I use my GS mainly for touring, I use my Street Triple mainly for fun....IMHO the KTM and Ducati are performance machines in "adventure" disguise...horses for courses.... ;0)
many thanks for this bud, just getting one today great videos
Congratulations!
Did you get one?
If so how do you like it?
Ducati created a new category with the Multi. The road biased super adventure bike. 160+bhp machines using existing high output engines in enduro packages with fairing and bags.
I never really got why journalists kept comparing the Multi to the GS.
BMW’s response was not to make the GS more road biased or give it 160 horses but to take their existing sports bike and give it big enduro ergos - witness the S1000XR.
This category is really less about adventure and more about sports bikes with comfortable ergos. They are sports bikes on stilts with a few concessions to touring like bags and screens.
The manufacturers need to re-ignite the old category of sports tourer. What we really want is the silhouette of a sports bike but with lower pegs and higher bars. Ducati tried with the super sport and Honda tried with the latest VFR both are competent bikes but we really want 160+ horsepower.
When I ride my Multi on the road I only get to use that full horsepower for a few moments each ride, and even on track you are kidding yourself if you think you are putting down 160hp for more than a hand full of seconds each lap. (Remember full horsepower is maximum throttle opening at maximum revs.)
But that is what makes these bikes special, that and the noise. C’mon Ducati make a 160hp Super Sport a lot of your older well heeled customers would buy one!
I'd agree that the Multi is more Comparable to the XR.
And the Desert X is now Comparable to the GS Adventure
Check this video to see what the MTS1200 is capable of. Adventure ride of 10k miles from Las Vegas, NV, to Prudhoe Bay Alaska. Epic!
I really love the look of these Multi 1200s. I was filling up at my dealer last weekend and there was a chap taking out a new 950 for a test ride. Honestly I thought it was a 1200 until I asked the sales man if it was in fact a 950 or 1200.
I do love the power, noise and comfort of my 1190 R.. Although I would love to test a Multi as I think my plans for trips away are tilting away from off-road adventures to concentrating more on the smooth stuff.
Great review. I don't suppose you'd be taking out a 2016/17 for a test ride/comparison any time soon?
Unlikely Oliver I'm afraid - I don't really have access to a friendly local Ducati dealer - getting to ride this one was a bit of an effort...
What are those black things that float just about the rear tire for?
That'll be the rear "fender" (mudguard) - surprisingly effective in that position as it happens...
Great video very informative. Not ridden either bike but if I only had one bike at home, it would have to be Ducati out of the two Just looks so much better .
Thanks Mark - well I thought the same, Ducati are far cooler than BMW right! I owed it to myself to ride both, and to me, the Beemer is the better bike all round (but if you just want pace go for the Duke!)...ride safe - TMF
HaHA I had the same problem on mine at first ,,how do you turn the heated grips off ?...its on the engine start button when the engine is running ...great reviews on the type of bikes I like ..mark
Thanks for putting me out of my misery Mark, and for the kind comments. I didn't find the MTS switchgear that logical, one of the reasons I went for the GS over the Duke, I think they may have improved things for this latest model just launched though....so maybe back on the radar for the future, if only they had the integrated satnav.......
TheMissendenFlyer I have the 2010 multistrada ,myself and my wife are demo riding the 2014 gs1200 from cw dorchester next sat weather permitting,really looking forward to riding one ,I tried the 1200 rt a year ago which was nice ..so cant wait to try the gs ..thanks mark
mark pulling You'll love the ease of use of the GS, but it will feel significantly less pokey than the Multistrada - enjoy!
TheMissendenFlyer TMF, FYI in the US "pokey" means slow. (pokey - slow, not moving quickly; taking a comparatively long time)
That's something I've learnt! Here in the UK it means the opposite in the context of speed (but can also mean small in the context of a house for example)....and they say we speak the same language!
Mate you had your mind made up on the BMW before you'd even done anything on the Ducati. The Ducati is a bike for people who want the best all round bike and don't have a spare sports bike at home. Very bias review that totally missed the point of the type of bike the Ducati is.
Thanks for watching Richard - enjoyed your comment! ;0)
Urban for city, touring for highway.
Sometime, can u do a review of the Skyhook vs the Ohlins ERS on the YZF-R1M
+2391jessie Love too!
Did anyone mention "the beemer"
Have to say when I watched this I did think ..this guy's already made his mind up on a GS.But today I finally got the test ride one I almost brought one based on reviews alone and painfully I have to agree with everything u say. I found that the riding position really odd I'm 5;9 so not the tallest but the bars r very close to you and pegs feel behind u and tilted forward i didn't feel plated on the pegs and found the wrist bending back with how the bars are positioned (stock)Genuinly sad that it wasn't how about 50 reviews I watched said. Looks wise and power it's what I'd want .but after I rode today I took the tiger straight out it was a 2016 as I'm on a budget of 7 to 7.5k UK pounds and it's just effortless and seemed to turn so nibbly etc if it had a touch more power I'd have it but atm I'm back to the drawing board hoping something fits me perfect coming from sports bike after sports bike . I don't know if the Tigers slow so to speak or of its that easy to ride and quiet it just feels that way.
Which Tiger was it?
TheMissendenFlyer 2015 1050 very nice to ride. I had heart set on multistrada but just didn't feel right and I've made the mistake before of following heart not head haha
How about a review of the Honda CB1300?
Love too! Can you lend me one to ride ;0)
I thought I was watching a Ducati review… must have said the word “Beemer” over 100 times 😂.. This is more of a comparison of a bike that I would say isn’t really competition, more the S1000XR.
Love most of your reviews, this should have been “Raving about a beemer while riding a Ducati” 😅
As you wish….
good vid.. as is the BMW.. Still prefer the tiger and If I could find a way to move the sprint and buy your tiger I would.. Keep up the good work on the vids...
Thanks blokeinlondon, glad you approve of my efforts! I agree that the Tiger is a darn good looking bike (I probably prefer its looks over the Duke and the Beemer)...but there's no doubt these modern technical machines are in a different league. Don't rush on shifting your Sprint, my ol' Tiger is now long gone to its new owner :0(
blokeinlondon I've ridden the GS, I have a Tiger and I've just ordered the Ducati to replace my Tiger...
I have the 2010 Multistrada and is a beautiful bike for almost any terrain. Especially the 2013 with the new lights and the new suspension one word says it all -fantastic-. The way I see it: the BMW can be your every day wife, wash the dishes, takes the kids to school etc. The Ducati is your hot girlfriend. She can do the everyday things for you but you don't want her to do your laundry so.. you keep her for the weekend.
Nice analogy Maverick - why would I want a hot Italian girlfriend? ;0) Don't answer that.......
Ride that thing carefully - awesome bike,
- TMF
Well put, I am lucky to have ten bikes and have ridden almost everything in my motorcycling business career. I took a GS to Austria, with luggage, did the Grossglockner pass, comfy, economic, reasonable fun if a little "staid" the Multi would have trashed the BMW in sport mode down the pass if you had your head on as it's no slouch, depends what you want.
I am taking a Hypermotard to the west coast of Scotland, pain to get there but sooo much fun round the single track roads as I am a 55 year old nutter who's ridden since 16
Ten bikes = 2 wives and 8 hot girlfriends,,,,,,,,,,happy days!!
Yes... love the analogy! The Ducati is the Hot Girlfriend... :P
GrandpaBambu Agreed!
TheMissendenFlyer I have a 2015 MTS 1200 S on order... Is it spring yet?
How tall are you?
Hi tjon - 5'8" at last count :0)
Interesting you can tell the GS handles better than a Multi on those shitty roads.
Just my opinion!
l would like to give you some constructive feedback. Your review is biased. If the title of your video was "here's why you should buy the GS" it would be truely a complete explanatory review of the multistrada and why u shouldn't pick it compared to the GS. The way you talk about the two bikes, is just biased.
I try not to be biased but thanks for watching and for your comment....
Multi - scary fast blatting to mid tour. GS - idiot free tourer with a bit of easy offroad. Different bikes. Multi - much better instrument cluster.
Calummckinlay888 Hi Calummckinlay888 I agree with all you say - but the BMW instrumentation is so much better if you buy the (optional) Navigator V that provides loads of extra functionality and replicates instrument displays.....
Agreed - but then you have three different 'dials' just need the Navigator. I reckon they will soon replace with just a Navigator + with all the stuff you need in one screen.
Maybe have a single Navigator + screen that either locks in, or removable for security. BMW patent pending....
i think you like bmw, your to old for ducati. 30 years on bikes ducati is fun fun fun.
Hilarious - you remind me of when I was at a BMW car dealer once trying to choose between a Beemer and a Merc, the BMW salesman said "you're far too young for a Mercedes sir"....I bought the Beemer, I have a Merc now!.....so you're probably right - TMF
Its all good fun, and thats the bottom line.
Cheers Rob
Rob Reed sure is ;0)
Rob Reed I have to agree Rob... definately some bias going on there! Every other reviewer/critic has said the Ducati is the best bike in it's class - except this review, most odd.
...bear in mind this is the "old" MTS - I've not ridden the current model and I understand improvements have been made....also this is just my opinion and it's as valid as anyone else's! For me at the time I rode both machines, the BMW was the better bike for my purposes...
hahahaha beemer smoother and handles better ur having a laugh
Nope - deadly serious.....