| First impressions
After walking into Ducati Manchester at Easter with the idea of buying an ST4 to replace my 6 year old VFR - I walked out the owner of a red Multistrada (no 323). I saw it in the showroom and that was that - in the metal I think it looks stunning (even from the front !)
I have been riding it everyday now for a couple of weeks in sunshine, wind and rain so I have a few observations which may be of interest - bearing in mind I am an ex VFR rider.
Pros
Handling is in a different league to my VFR, for major fun I have been riding the fast and twisty Bosley to Cat and Fiddle to Macclesfield run (for those who live in Cheshire) early each morning on my way to work. I haven't even thought of adjusting any suspension settings because the cornering is so confidence inspiring, especially so in the wet.
Acceleration is rapid even though I haven't gone over 6000 rpm yet - overtaking is easy (can't comment about top speed yet), this is obviously something you all know about.
Brakes are superb, rear brake works a treat (after adjusting the pedal).
Comfort is fantastic (I'm 6ft 2in), bars and pegs are in the right place - I am getting used to looking over dry stone walls from my Ducati armchair !
Clocks are very clear.
Generally very easy to ride, low speed balance and stability is spot on, can turn on a sixpence.
Cons
Badly needs a rear hugger and front mudguard extender if you ride in the wet - lots of very awkward bits to keep clean!
Digital fuel gauge is a bit hit and miss. The fuel range indication is plus or minus 75 miles depending on whether the throttle is open or closed. Because of the fuel tank location you have to rely on the electronic fuel gauge, its impossible to look in the tank to see how much fuel is left. Yellow light = 6.5 litres left in tank according to the manual.
Mirrors are not great (by VFR standards) - my left hand mirror housing droops but the right mirror is ok.
Can be difficult to get your leg over (!) if your back is as bad as mine.
Summary
In my opinion a great everyday bike, lots of fun whether going fast or slow, in town or country, in the wet or dry. I rode my VFR pretty much all year round, to work, to the Lakes, to France and Italy and back, it took it all in its stride, it was a fine machine but my Multistrada makes me smile a lot more than I used to.
First service is due on Saturday, I'm already looking forward to the next level.
BTW congratulations on the new forums, it's a great website - especially for people new to the world of Ducati.
Cheers
Nick S  | 
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