I'm looking to add a friend for the Monster in the garage. After some thinking, I have narrowed it down to buying an old Multistrada - either a 1000DS or an 1100. For what it's worth, I think I actually like all of Terblanche's designs at Ducati (still meh on the SS though).

I see a couple in my budget around the pacific coast (I'm located in SF and willing to travel to get it) with everything from 10,000 miles to 40,000 miles on the clock.

When it comes to basic maintenance, I know what to look for when buying an older Ducati. Anything specific to these models that I should look out for? Should I be wary of the higher mileage ones? Any model years to avoid, etc. etc.?

I put 20K miles on a 2004 1000DS MTS, a lot of it in crap weather. Great bike. Make sure the valve guides have been done if you get a 1000. Make sure the valves have been checked regularly, like any Ducati.

Quote from: Triple J on November 03, 2015, 10:45:54 AM
I put 20K miles on a 2004 1000DS MTS, a lot of it in crap weather. Great bike. Make sure the valve guides have been done if you get a 1000. Make sure the valves have been checked regularly, like any Ducati.

Thanks Triple J. I didn't know the 1000 DS had valve guide issues. I had to get all 4 guides on my Monster 620 replaced and that is not something I want to go through again!

From what I've read they have real potential for power with a big, well layed out airbox.

Quote from: koko64 on November 04, 2015, 11:35:42 PM
From what I've read they have real potential for power with a big, well layed out airbox.

Hmm, although a 1000 or an 1100 would already be quote a bump from my 620.

Yes, you will notice it.

The biggest issue with these bikes is the fuel tank. I'd try to find one that has been coated internally.  The shape of the tank is the biggest problem because it runs under the seat when it warps due to ethanol you might run into problems refitting the seat after removing it.

My advice would be to look for a later model 1100 S which came with Ohlins suspension and lighter Marchesini wheels.

Watch for broken locating tabs on the LHS fairing. The tabs are tiny and easily damaged.
Check for over tight belts and the resultant worn cambelt tensioner bearings.

Quote from: koko64 on December 04, 2015, 12:12:17 PM
Watch for broken locating tabs on the LHS fairing. The tabs are tiny and easily damaged.
Check for over tight belts and the resultant worn cambelt tensioner bearings.

You can still buy those fairings from Ducati.  They are around $300 or so painted but they're available.

Been test riding one. Nice bike.

After looking around for a little while, I found a black 1000 S with saddlebags and 37,000 miles on it. It's in excellent condition and it's a blast to ride!

Dry clutch too .
I no longer trust the sprung cush drive built into the MTS1100  wet clutch.

Quote from: Vishwacorp on February 09, 2016, 03:35:36 PM
After looking around for a little while, I found a black 1000 S with saddlebags and 37,000 miles on it. It's in excellent condition and it's a blast to ride!

Nice  You're gonna have miles of smiles on that thing.

I see no pic...just a minus sign.

Is it just me?

Quote from: ducpainter on February 09, 2016, 04:38:35 PM
I see no pic...just a minus sign.

Is it just me?

Yeah, use your iPad