Just a few months after its debut, Ducati of North America is recalling several units of the Multistrada V4 S for an issue with the engine’s valve guides. It has been reported that the guides in the new V4 powerplant are produced by two separate suppliers and the issue was only identified within one supplier’s batch. As a result, a total of 129 units are being affected by the recall issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

According to the defect report, the valve guides identified in certain machines have quality issues that could result in early wear. In some extreme cases, this excessive wear can lead to the mechanical breakage of the valve head and malfunction of the respective cylinder.

What Could Happen

The NHTSA recall report states that in the event of a broken valve head, the engine will no longer be able to deliver the intended power output. As a result, riders may experience a reduction in acceleration and responsiveness from the engine during use. There is also a chance that the bike may not restart again.

Models affected by recall

How To Get It Fixed

As a remedy, Ducati is offering a complete replacement of the engine with a new one free of charge. Dealerships have to also stop sale of units affected until the engine is replaced under the recall. However, customers who have already received their bikes are first priority for this update and dealers are to start repairs as soon as the owner’s machine arrives at their workshop.

The Italian manufacturer isn’t stopping at changing the entire engine but also providing additional compensation to owners for their trouble by offering: 

• Two years of free routine maintenance.
• Free Radar upgrade (worth $850 + labor).
• $1,500 Accessories & Clothing voucher.

Ducati has already begun contacting the owners of the motorcycles involved in the recall campaign  (SRV-RCL-21-002). Owners can contact Ducati customer service at 1-888-391-5446 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236. You can also check your VIN to see if you are affected by the recall at www.nhtsa.gov.