DUCATI Multistrada 1000DS (2002-2003) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Ducati Multistrada 1000 DS was introduced in 2003 and was part of a V-Twin series of motorcycles. In essence, the model was a hybrid of a supermoto and sport-tourer that competed in the market with other dual-sport motorcycles such as the BMW GS but was never intended or suitable for off-road use.

The first version sold in 2003 had a 1,000cc engine and introduced in 2005 a smaller 620cc version. The 2003 model was criticized by a Motorcyclist magazine because of its seat, described as “a vinyl covered sheet of plywood.”

Standard features of the 2003 model include a half-fairing with an adjustable windshield, a dual seat, a passenger grab handle, and a small luggage rack.

The 2003 model had its power from a 992cc V-Twin four-stroke air-cooled engine working in parallel with a six-speed manual transmission, giving an output of 86 hp at 7,750 rpm and 88 Nm a965 lb-ft) of torque at 5,750 rpm.

On the tubular Trellis frame was a high-end suspension package composed of a 43 mm Showa fully adjustable upside-down fork on the front, an Ohlins fully adjustable monoshock with progressive cantilever linkage on the rear, and a dual exhaust system.

The front wheel has two 320 mm discs with four-piston calipers and a 245 mm disc with a two-piston caliper on the rear wheel.