Italian superbike manufacturer Ducati today launched its new Multistrada 950 S in India, priced at Rs 15.49 lakh (ex-showroom all-India). This is the smallest ‘multibike’ in Ducati’s portfolio,

The 950 S features Ducati's signature Multistrada design language, which is evident in the sleek LED headlamps, the prominent beak and minimal rear. Inspired by the Ducati MotoGP machine, it features a white base colour, and grey as well as red highlights on the tank and radiator shroud. Expect Ducati to introduce the motorcycle with this colour scheme, along with the traditional 'Ducati Red' option.

Powering the Ducati Multistrada 950 S is a Euro 5/ BS6-compliant, 937cc, Testastretta L-twin engine. It develops 113hp at 9,000rpm and 96Nm of torque at 7,750rpm. The engine is paired with a 6-speed gearbox.

Ducati has also thrown in a comprehensive suite of electronics to justify the 'S' suffix. This includes 4 riding modes (Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro), the Ducati Skyhook Evo semi active suspension, traction control, Ducati Up/Down quickshifter, cornering ABS, cornering lights and Vehicle Hold Control. All of these features can be accessed via the 5.0-inch, colour TFT display.

Compared to the BS4 Ducati Multistrada 950, which was available in standard configuration and retailed at Rs 12.84 lakh, the Multistrada 950 S costs Rs 265,000 more. Considering the extra features on the new Multistrada 950 S, it is priced at a fair premium over the standard model. Ducati will commence deliveries of the Multistrada 950 S in the second week of November. Bookings are now open across all Ducati dealerships in Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kochi, Kolkata and Chennai.

As far as competition goes, the Multistrada 950 goes up against the BMW F 900 XR, for which prices start at a much more affordable Rs 10.50 lakh, and the Triumph Tiger 900 GT that is priced at Rs 13.7 lakh.

Commenting on the latest Ducati for India, Bipul Chandra, Managing Director of Ducati India, said, “The Multistrada 950 S is a perfect design amalgamation of the bigger Multistradas which has led to the creation of a bike with typical Multistrada shapes which is at the same time, compact, and not just visibly. The Multistrada family has gained immense popularity in India considering the growing popularity of long distance touring and our idea behind the new Multistrada 950 S is to make Sports touring more accessible, allowing riders to explore the beautiful terrain that India has to offer.”

The electronics package now includes Bosch Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Vehicle Hold Control (VHC) and the iconic semi-active Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) which continuously adjusts fork and shock absorber , based on a 48 mm diameter fork and rear shock (both electronic), Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS), Ducati Cornering Lights (DCL) and Cruise Control. The Multistrada 950 S can now mount the Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) and also features a full-LED headlight, 5-inch colour TFT display, a Hands-Free system, Cruise Control and backlit switchgear controls.

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