Oh man, you won’t believe the journey I’ve had with my Ducati Multistrada 1200. It all started when I decided to get my hands on this beast, a 2014 1200S Gran Turismo to be exact. I’d been eyeing a second bike for a while, and this one just called out to me.
First off, getting it home was an adventure in itself. I used my trusty dual bungy carabiner ties to cart it. Sounds simple, but trust me, securing a bike like this is no small feat. And yeah, that white stuff in the photo? That’s just talcum powder – I figured it might come in handy for tire or rim lube if needed.
Diving into Maintenance: I’m not one to shy away from getting my hands dirty, so I started digging into the DIY maintenance. This is where the real fun began. The Multistrada 1200 is powered by the Testastretta 11 engine, which is a whole new world for me. I got myself a workshop manual – best decision ever. It felt like uncovering hidden secrets, learning about the DSS (Ducati Skyhook System) and the data acquisition system. It’s impressive, to say the least.
- First Challenge – The Engine: I spent hours just familiarizing myself with the engine. It’s a complex piece of machinery, but understanding it was so satisfying.
- Tackling the Suspension: The DSS is a marvel. It’s a brand new suspension control system that just makes the ride so smooth. Learning how it works and how to tweak it was a game-changer.
- Electronics and Instrumentation: The LCD instrumentation is top-notch. It tells you everything you could possibly need to know, including air temperature. Figuring out all the electronics was like solving a puzzle.
Modifications and Add-ons:
- Cruise Control: I delved into forums and found some folks talking about cruise control modifications. That’s something I’m definitely looking into for those long rides.
- Air Pump: I also picked up a small Touratech plug-in air pump. It’s super compact and a lifesaver for those unexpected moments.
Issues and Learnings: Of course, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. I’ve had my share of things that have failed or needed attention. Each issue was a learning opportunity, teaching me more about the bike and my own capabilities. I even encountered a few failed parts, which I documented meticulously.
Reflecting on the Experience:
Looking back, this whole experience with the Ducati Multistrada 1200 has been incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about riding; it’s about understanding, maintaining, and really connecting with the machine. Every ride is a reminder of the work I’ve put in and the knowledge I’ve gained. It’s a journey I’m still on, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.
Honestly, every time I think I’ve got it all figured out, something new pops up. But that’s the beauty of it, right? It’s a continuous learning curve, and I’m here for it. Can’t wait to share more as I continue this adventure!