The New Ducati Multistrada 939 - Soon Launched at EICMA
Just as BMW offers multiple sizes of GS-badged machines and Triumph has a host of different-sized Tigers, Ducati is on the verge of expanding its Multistrada range to encompass a spread of engines.
Given the existing Ducati Multistrada 1200 offerings already provide about as much performance as you’re ever going to ask for in an adventure-tourer, the next new machine will be smaller. We’ve already seen some pictures of the Ducati Multistrada 939 on test, but the latest shots reveal much more detail and suggest it will be launched at EICMA in November.
The Ducati Multistrada 939 is believed to use the same 937cc Testastretta 11-degree engine as the Ducati Hypermotard 939 and the new Supersport. That means it will generate 83.1kW at 9,000rpm and 97.9Nm at 7,500rpm, which might seem limp next to the 117.7kW of the Ducati Multistrada 1200, but it’s probably more than enough for most adventure riders and their preferred conditions.
A double-sided swingarm, borrowed from the Ducati Multistrada Enduro, fits with Ducati’s usual practice of reserving single-sided swingarms for high-end models. While the front section and frame look every bit the stock Ducti Multistrada kit, the seat sub-frame appears to be new.
Importantly, given that the smaller-engined motorcycle will be aimed at less experienced riders, the seat looks noticable lower than the normal Ducati Multistrada, eliminating the section of colored bodywork the grey luggage fitment section and the black seat itself.
In typical lower-end Ducati style, the Italian company has recombined and re-purposed off-the-shelf parts from existing models to craft a new machine with a minimum of R&D cost. By cutting the investment needed in creating the motorcycle, Ducati should be able to pass on savings to customers without resorting to using low-spec components.
