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Head to head

Ducati Multistrada V4 S vs BMW R 1300 GS

Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

The Ducati Multistrada V4 S and BMW R 1300 GS are among the most cross-shopped adventure bikes of 2026. The BMW R 1300 GS undercuts the Ducati Multistrada V4 S by about $9,410, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Ducati Multistrada V4 S leads on power with 170 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.

Ducati Multistrada V4 S
8.9

Ducati

Ducati Multistrada V4 S
BMW R 1300 GS
Our pick
9.3

BMW

BMW R 1300 GS

The verdict

The BMW R 1300 GS edges it overall at 9.3/10, but the Ducati Multistrada V4 S wins on most exciting, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

BMW R 1300 GS

145 hp.

Most exciting

Ducati Multistrada V4 S

170 hp and 0.71 hp/kg, the strongest here.

Best value

BMW R 1300 GS

Our 9.3/10 at $18,895, the most bike per dollar.

Easiest to manage

BMW R 1300 GS

237 kg with an 850 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.

Highest rated

BMW R 1300 GS

Our top score in this matchup at 9.3/10.

Price & rating
Price$28,305$18,895
KickTheStand score8.9 / 109.3 / 10
Performance
Engine1158cc four1300cc twin
Power170 hp145 hp
Torque125 Nm149 Nm
Power-to-weight0.71 hp/kg0.61 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspension50mm Marzocchi USD fork, semi-active Skyhook DSS EvoTelelever (EVO)
Rear suspensionSemi-active monoshock, Skyhook DSS EvoEVO Paralever monoshock
Front brakesDual 330mm discs, Brembo StylemaDual 310mm discs, radial 4-piston
Rear brakesSingle 265mm discSingle 285mm disc
Dimensions & practicality
Weight240 kg237 kg
Seat height840 mm850 mm
Fuel capacity22 L19 L
Suitability
ClassAdventureAdventure
A2 licenceNoNo
Good for beginnersNoNo
Best foradventure, touring, sportadventure, touring

Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.

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Ducati Multistrada V4 S vs BMW R 1300 GS: your questions answered

Which is faster, the Ducati Multistrada V4 S or the BMW R 1300 GS?

The Ducati Multistrada V4 S makes the most power at 170 hp and 125 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.

Which is cheaper, the Ducati Multistrada V4 S or the BMW R 1300 GS?

The BMW R 1300 GS is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $18,895.

Which is lighter, the Ducati Multistrada V4 S or the BMW R 1300 GS?

The BMW R 1300 GS is the lightest at 237 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.

Which is better for a beginner, the Ducati Multistrada V4 S or the BMW R 1300 GS?

For a new rider we'd point to the BMW R 1300 GS: 145 hp and 237 kg make it the most approachable of the group.

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