The Ducati Multistrada 950 is gone! Errr, sort of.

Ducati has announced a “new gateway to the Multistrada universe,” the Multistrada V2. Take a good look, and you will notice it’s very similar to the outgoing 950-series machine, but with some major updates.

When updating the project, Ducati says “the main points of focus were ergonomics, weight reduction, engine updates and a series of upgrades that follow the philosophy of ‘continuous improvement.’ ” The engine itself is still a 937 cc liquid-cooled 11-degree Testastretta V-twin, with desmodromic top end, and four valves per cylinder. Max output is claimed 113 horsepower, with linear delivery and low-rpm smoothness. For 2022, the engine gets new conrods, a new eight-disc hydraulic clutch, and revisions to the gearbox to ensure smooth shifting, especially when using the quickshifter. Given the typical crankiness of Ducati’s transmissions, this is likely a welcome upgrade.

Oil changes come ever 15,000 kilometres on the updated V2 engine; valve clearance checkups come ever 30,000 kilometres.

Ducati also says the engine updates managed to shave about two kilograms of weight; in total, the updated Multistrada is down about five kilograms, thanks to a lose-the-fat program applied all over the machine (new rims, new mirrors, new brake flanges, etc., to cut down the weight).

Many of those parts were hand-me-downs from the V4 Multistrada design, including the 19-17 cast rims (spoked wheels available as an accessory).

Along with the weight reduction, engineers also put an emphasis on improved ergonomics. The footpegs are lower now, and the seat is refined for comfort, with a more narrow design that makes it easier for the rider’s legs to reach the ground.

The 2022 model comes with high-tech electro-wizardry: Cornering ABS, traction control and four riding modes (Sport, Enduro, Urban, Touring) are standard. Ducati also includes “Vehicle Hold Control,” for easier starting on sloped roads, and the Ducati Brake Light System, which automatically flashes the rear brake light in the event of a sudden braking scenario.

Besides the spoked wheels mentioned earlier, Ducati has a complete catalog of other add-ons, including electronically-governed Skyhook suspension. Skyhook is standard on the up-specced Multistrada V2 S model. The S model also gets a cornering-adaptive LED headlight, up/down quickshifter, five-inch colour TFT screen and cruise control as standard. As well, only the S model can be ordered with Travel trim (sidebags, heated grips, centrestand).

The base model will come in Ducati Red, and the S model is also available in Street Grey. Ducati says the new Multistrada V2 will be in North American dealerships in December of 2021, with pricing starting at $15,295 USD in the States, and $16,995 CAD in Hosertopia.