After three years of development and anticipation from the motorcycling community, Ducati launches the Multistrada 1000 DS. Delivery of the motorcycle to eager Ducati dealerships and motoring enthusiasts around the world has already begun.

Born on the demanding mountain roads and city streets of Northern Italy, the Multistrada 1000 DS fulfils a dream: a high performance motorcycle that can take on the best that the sport bike world can offer, while still being practical, comfortable and versatile. An ideal bike to ride on the road any day, anywhere. A real-world motorcycle for real world-riders.

The Multistrada's outstanding performance is not only the result of advanced design. It is also thanks to the inclusion of the highest quality Superbike components and new 1000cc Desmo engine

New from top to bottom, the fuel-injected two-valve air-cooled Dual Spark 1000 L-Twin engine achieves greater power, efficiency and reliability - and is the perfect match for the lightweight and aggressive Ducati Multistrada 1000 DS.

The Multistrada combines the signature Ducati Trellis frame, advanced Superbike suspension, race-bred brakes, a new single-sided swingarm and performance wheels and tyres.

Showa fully adjustable forks ensure plush, accurate and confident handling.

A new single-sided swingarm featuring a new larger axle carrier and bearings increases rigidity and reliability. It combines with a Showa fully-adjustable shock with convenient remote pre-load adjuster to handle rear damping duties.

Only the best Brembo "Serie Oro" calipers are used front and rear. Up front newly designed 320 mm discs are gripped by Brembo four piston calipers and a single 245 mm disc is used in the rear.

Ducati Design has developed new front and rear wheels. The aggressive design is beautiful to look at and also simplifies and lightens the wheel/disc package. The discs are now mounted directly onto oversized hubs, eliminating the disc carriers.

Ducati Performance has created a line of accessories and clothing dedicated exclusively to the Multistrada, which will be unveiled to the International Press with the bike itself.

And with a full compliment of accessories - dedicated saddlebags, rear rack, satellite navigation system, performance enhancing components and more -- riders can extend their boundaries even further.

For more details about the new Multistrada 1000 DS, visit www.ducati.com