Ducati Multistrada V4 S vs Ducati DesertX
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 Ducati DesertX are among the most cross-shopped adventure bikes of 2026. The Ducati DesertX undercuts the Ducati Multistrada V4 S by about $10,310, 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.
Our pickDucati
Ducati Multistrada V4 S
Ducati
Ducati DesertXThe verdict
The Ducati Multistrada V4 S edges it overall at 8.9/10, but the Ducati DesertX wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Ducati DesertX
A2-legal, 110 hp.
Ducati Multistrada V4 S
170 hp and 0.71 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Ducati DesertX
Our 8.3/10 at $17,995, the most bike per dollar.
Ducati DesertX
223 kg with an 875 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Ducati Multistrada V4 S
Our top score in this matchup at 8.9/10.
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 Ducati DesertX: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Ducati Multistrada V4 S or the Ducati DesertX?
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 Ducati DesertX?
The Ducati DesertX is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $17,995.
Which is lighter, the Ducati Multistrada V4 S or the Ducati DesertX?
The Ducati DesertX is the lightest at 223 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 Ducati DesertX?
For a new rider we'd point to the Ducati DesertX: A2-legal, 110 hp and 223 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
