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Head to head

Ducati Multistrada V4 S vs KTM 890 Adventure R

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 KTM 890 Adventure R are among the most cross-shopped adventure bikes of 2026. The KTM 890 Adventure R undercuts the Ducati Multistrada V4 S by about $13,706, 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
Our pick
8.9

Ducati

Ducati Multistrada V4 S
KTM 890 Adventure R
8.7

KTM

KTM 890 Adventure R

The verdict

The Ducati Multistrada V4 S edges it overall at 8.9/10, but the KTM 890 Adventure R wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.

Best for new riders

KTM 890 Adventure R

105 hp.

Most exciting

Ducati Multistrada V4 S

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

Best value

KTM 890 Adventure R

Our 8.7/10 at $14,599, the most bike per dollar.

Easiest to manage

KTM 890 Adventure R

210 kg with an 880 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.

Highest rated

Ducati Multistrada V4 S

Our top score in this matchup at 8.9/10.

Price & rating
Price$28,305$14,599
KickTheStand score8.9 / 108.7 / 10
Performance
Engine1158cc four889cc twin
Power170 hp105 hp
Torque125 Nm100 Nm
Power-to-weight0.71 hp/kg0.50 hp/kg
Chassis & brakes
Front suspension50mm Marzocchi USD fork, semi-active Skyhook DSS Evo48mm WP Xplor USD fork
Rear suspensionSemi-active monoshock, Skyhook DSS EvoWP Xplor monoshock
Front brakesDual 330mm discs, Brembo StylemaDual 320mm discs, radial 4-piston
Rear brakesSingle 265mm discSingle 260mm disc
Dimensions & practicality
Weight240 kg210 kg
Seat height840 mm880 mm
Fuel capacity22 L20 L
Suitability
ClassAdventureAdventure
A2 licenceNoNo
Good for beginnersNoNo
Best foradventure, touring, sportadventure

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 KTM 890 Adventure R: your questions answered

Which is faster, the Ducati Multistrada V4 S or the KTM 890 Adventure R?

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 KTM 890 Adventure R?

The KTM 890 Adventure R is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $14,599.

Which is lighter, the Ducati Multistrada V4 S or the KTM 890 Adventure R?

The KTM 890 Adventure R is the lightest at 210 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 KTM 890 Adventure R?

For a new rider we'd point to the KTM 890 Adventure R: 105 hp and 210 kg make it the most approachable of the group.

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