The motor in the Multistrada is a 4 valve desmodromic water cooled L-twin and there are (2) shims (opening and closing) on each valve. The valve train is operated via (2) Kevlar? belts which require replacement every 2 years or 15,000 miles. The engine is somewhat more complex than the Suzuki and will require some finesse with valve adjustments if you plan on doing them yourself.
The oil change on the Multistrada is SIMPLE to do at home, take it to the dealer and expect to get slammed for $175+, probably the same for both bikes...
Parts can be ordered online via several dealers thus mitigating the 90 mile drive but expect 2 weeks+ for arrival, and no, the dealer is not likely going to have that odd bolt in stock. I make a small order every month on parts which I expect to replace, offseting normal "wear and tear".
Here is the kicker, the 7,500 mile service on my 696 Monster (2011, 2 valve air cooled motor) was quoted at around $1,000 in the Dallas area (oil, valves, and belts). Yours will be HIGHER, possibly MUCH HIGHER...
Ducati's are reliable motorcycles and the newer ones do not seem to require as much "TLC" as in the past but you are going to have to do your homework before biting on this. Read through the MANY Ducati forums and in particular the sub forums which cater to the Multistrada owner community to get an idea as what you are getting yourself into.
I love my Ducati but make no mistake, they do require more attention than the typical Japanese bike and are more expensive to maintain.
The Multistrada is an excellent motorcycle with electronically adjustable suspension and various engine modes, not to mention being somewhat lighter than comparable models in the class but you are going to PAY for it. The company has gradually reacted to the market given current economic conditions (switched to wet clutch, standardized parts, etc) but in my opinion, will never seriously compete with the Japanese offerings. This is not likely an issue considering their target market has the "pocket books" necessary to effect ownership.
The Suzuki will be easier to maintain and will probably cost less in the long run to own. Also, don't believe all the hype about resale value, my Ducati is likely worth only 60% of what I originally paid for it, and the bike is only a year old...
Ultimately, only you can decide what bike is right for you. The goal is riding time, not time in the garage, and not putting somebody else's kids through college. In all honesty, I love my Duc but am just calling the shots where they lay, being in the military and married, my "hobby" must compete with various other interests, but the Multistrada can be an excellent "fit" depending on your situation. I've owned several Suzuki motorcycles and the quality has always been top notch, I really don't think you can go wrong with either model. Hope this helps and your mileage will vary...
