2005 Ducati Multistrada Review

An off-road bike, the Ducati Multistrada is aptly named: ""Multistrada"" is an Italian phrase that means ""many roads."" However, not many people were attracted to the Multistrada when it was introduced in 2003. In an effort to spruce things up, its manufacturer Ducati offered multiple versions of the bike for the 2005 model year, in addition to other improvements.

The Multistrada started out with only one model, which was called the 1000 DS. It was powered by a 992-cubic centimeter air-cooled L-twin (two-cylinder) Desmodromic engine. For the 2005 model year, Ducati introduced a sportier version of the 1000 DS. Named the 1000S DS, this variant has an Ohlins suspension, black-painted aluminum wheels, and an oversized aluminum handlebar for reduced vibration and improved handling. Ducati also provided a smaller-displacement engine version called the Multistrada 620. With its engine displacing at 618 cc, the Multistrada 620 is split into the regular version and a black-colored variant called the 620 Dark. Together, there are four models of the 2005 Multistrada. The available color schemes for the bike are red, yellow, and black.

Apart from the model additions, the 2005 Ducati Multistrada received a host of refinements. Ducati felt the side stand of previous models was too short and prone to tip-over, so the manufacturer lengthened it. The two-piece seat on the bike is softer and less angular. The rearview mirrors have lengthened stems for enhancing the driver’s visual perception on the road. Once an option with the 2003 and 2004 model years, the touring screen on the Multistrada is now a standard feature.

The engines on the 2005 Ducati Multistrada 620 variants produce 63 horsepower at 9,500 revolutions per minute (RPM) and 41 pound-feet (lb-ft) of torque at 6,750 RPM. The engine on the Multistrada 1000 DS models is more powerful, at 92 horsepower at 8,000 RPM and 68 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 RPM. Also, the 1000 DS bikes have larger gas tanks. Each 2005 Multistrada engine has four intake valves and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission.

Made of steel, the 2005 Ducati Multistrada is designed to be a very sturdy bike. Great stopping power comes from its pair of Brembo® disc brakes. Standard digital instrumentation on the 2005 Multistrada consists of a trip odometer, clock, tachometer, speedometer, service reminder indicator, and temperature and fuel level warning lights. A trip computer is added on the 1000 DS models. Each Multistrada has under-seat and lockable compartments for storage, a tinted windshield for protection against rushing wind, and an engine immobilizer as a bike-theft deterrent. Also included are halogen lights, side mirrors, and adjustable handlebars.

The 2005 Ducati Multistrada is a remarkable improvement over the first two models. Although it is far from the best choice in the market for its model year, the 2005 Multistrada is perfect for those looking for a combination of casual riding and sport orientation.