The Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally gets a more sophisticated suspension upgrade

That a Ducati carries the name Rally in its nomenclature means adventure, and an example of this is the DesertX Rally, with an look and solutions that bring it closer to a pure enduro motorcycle with the beautiful styling of the Dakar, but the Rally name also appears on the adventure-oriented Multistrada, which translates into a bike that is even more capable both on asphalt and on dirt.

Unlike the DesertX, the Multistrada is a more versatile motorcycle, able to cover hundreds of kilometres on tarmac and which, if it encounters a dirt track with knobby tyres, can reach the most remote places on almost any trail. In its Rally version the Multistrada goes a step further, mainly with very sophisticated semi-active suspension, which for the 2026 model receives updates with more features.

The big difference between a standard Ducati Multistrada and a Multistrada V4 Rally lies in its suspension: semi-active units managed by the Adaptive Skyhook DSS (Ducati Semiactive Suspension) EVO strategy, which this year is updated with new functions that raise the bar in terms of comfort and effectiveness. Broadly speaking, what this suspension does on the Multistrada V4 Rally is provide constant real-time configuration, whether riding solo, with a passenger or even with luggage, so that weight distribution stays optimal at all times.

With this evolution, the rider can now manually change the suspension response even while riding and regardless of the riding mode (Riding Mode in Ducati) selected, allowing the bike to be adapted to personal taste depending on the type of riding, for example switching from a section of gentle bends to a demanding mountain pass. It also incorporates the Adaptive DSS EVO system, which is able to understand the route being taken and our riding characteristics, adjusting the suspension to maintain the best balance between comfort and control at all times.

Ducati has also introduced in the new Multistrada V4 Rally the DVO algorithm (Ducati Vehicle Observer), with electronic controls that now work with greater precision, meaning it calculates the motorcycle’s position in space and its total mass more accurately, simulating the input of 70 sensors to complement the data provided by the inertial platform. Thanks to the DVO, the electronic combined braking system, which can be deactivated manually, and the front-rear strategy now also features a rear-front strategy, meaning it activates the front brake when only the rear brake lever is operated, which reduces the bike’s lean during braking and improves comfort.

In terms of safety systems, the new Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally also gets an updated radar with the Forward Collision Warning function, which warns of a possible collision with the vehicle ahead. Additionally, cornering lights and an updated headlight unit reduce the shadow ahead of the front wheel, and it incorporates the Coming Home function, which keeps the lights on for a few seconds after switching off the ignition. Ducati has also introduced the automatic lowering device, which lowers the seat height when riding below 10 km/h, while returning to normal height when accelerating above 50 km/h on the road or 20 km/h off-road. Finally, as a result of the suspension changes, the 6.5-inch TFT display has been updated to offer more efficient and versatile suspension control.

Mechanically, the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally retains the V4 Granturismo engine producing 170 CV and 121 Nm of torque, with a system that deactivates the rear cylinders when riding at low revs or stationary, linked to the Ducati Quick Shift 2.0 gearbox, which allows rapid upshifts and downshifts without using the clutch. The chassis continues with the aluminium monocoque frame, now with a double-sided swingarm mounted on a pivot that has been repositioned higher, increasing the anti-squat effect and, with the same goal, a larger rear disc now 280 mm has been fitted.

The new Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally is set to be available at the brand’s Spanish dealerships from next November.