Versatility sells. That’s a fact. But when the level of orders exceeds even the manufacturer’s expectations is when you know you got yourself a winner in your lucky hands. This pretty much describes Ducati’s case with the all-new Multistrada 1200, which was introduced in the United States this past weekend. Turns out that the 150hp and over 87lb/ft of torque Italian motorcycle featuring four different riding modes – Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro – won the hearts of the Americans and Ducati has pre-sold more than 500 units. They even call it "2010's Hottest Motorcycle," and it now comes with a sixty-day waiting period. Please read the press release after the jump.


PRESS RELEASE

DUCATI'S GAME-CHANGING MULTISTRADA 1200 MEETS HIGH CUSTOMER DEMAND


Sixty-Day Wait for 2010's Hottest Motorcycle After Nationwide Showroom Launch

Cupertino, Calif. (May 17, 2010) – Following the highly successful nationwide showroom premiere of Ducati's new Multistrada 1200 over the weekend, the company announced today that orders for the bike have surpassed expectations and consumer demand is high for this revolutionary motorcycle.

The Multistrada is the first motorcycle specifically designed for the modern era and has captured the attention of riders looking for a ride that will adapt to their challenging needs– not the other way around. Ducati created a unique platform with the Multistrada by producing a bike that delivers an all-new multi-dimensional riding experience with just a click of a button.

"Following the national premiere of the Multistrada, reports are flooding in from our dealers that they haven't seen this much enthusiasm and demand for a bike since the launch of our groundbreaking 1098 Superbike," said Michael Lock, CEO of Ducati North America. "The market sees this bike as yet another testament to customers desire to own bikes that are innovative, easy to use and customizable to their individual needs."

The Multistrada 1200 combines advanced design and adaptable technology allowing the rider to explore on multiple riding terrains by shifting between four modes - Urban, Sport, Touring and Enduro – even while in motion. The rider has the capability to go from a high-performance, quick-response ride to a touring set-up for long journeys with a passenger and luggage. The Multistrada can also quickly transform into an everyday bike, used to navigate through city streets and then easily tackle backcountry tracks with the agility of Enduro mode.

Ducati pre-sold more than 500 Multistradas prior to the bike's official launch last weekend and anticipates that number to double in the coming months. For many of Ducati's customers, being able to finally ride the Multistrada and experience the four-bikes-in-one capability sealed the deal.

"I test rode the Multistrada this past weekend at Hattar Motorsports in San Rafael." Said Chris Lusardi of Burlingame, CA. "As the owner of seven motorcycles I was sceptical that the Multi could be so versatile, and fulfil several different roles in my garage. I was so wrong that I'm going to have to order one!"

Among the Multistrada's technological advancements are the New Ducati-Ohlins electronically adjusted suspension, traction control, ABS and ride-by-wire-throttle control. All of this allows for a truly customizable riding experience.

Pricing starts at $14,995, for a bike that boasts 150hp and over 87lb/ft of torque. There are three option packages available to suit the rider's taste – Multistrada 1200 including the Bosch-Brembo ABS system ($16,495); Multistrada 1200 "S Sport" package ($19,995); and the Multistrada 1200 "S Touring" model ($19,995).