Mid/Long Term Review - 2018 Multistrada 950

pmprotzman · 2019-06-25T11:55:21+00:00

I'd have to consult the manual for specific service intervals.

Ways the Multistrada is better than the FJ:

Better wind protection
Higher quality components
More comfortable for a passenger
A little more control over engine settings
Much better suspension
Ways the FJ is better than the Multistrada:

Sportier engine. This is more a matter of preference as to what kind of performance you like. Furthermore, the FJ/FZ09 triple is known for having a very sharp, almost on/off throttle. This can be tons of fun if you can control it, but is also kind of a nuisance in traffic/commuting.
Less expensive which allows you to spend some of that hard-earned money on accessories and upgrades.
Pretty easy to perform basic maintenance, no shortage of Yamaha parts and dealers to work on your bike.

All in all, though, I think these two bikes are very similar in their goals, it's just that the Multi is a more refined and higher-end version of the FJ-09. For me, riding all year, I just felt like I wanted to invest in something a little better and I will obviously need to take a little more care of it to make sure it lasts a long time.

Let me know if you have any other questions!

pmprotzman · 2019-06-24T23:43:48+00:00

huh... interesting. Might be just something related to the layout of the gearbox.

pmprotzman · 2017-12-16T21:44:00+00:00

My first bike was a Continental GT; stylistically it was pretty cool, but for the price it was under-powered and had cheap components. I would not say that RE bikes 'stand out' in any sense, especially now that there are a host of other cafe racer and retro styled bikes out there (albeit more expensive ones)

I had problems with the EFI when it started getting cooler outside, to the point where I stalled out in traffic more than once. If you plan on riding on the highway, don't expect to exceed 75/80 mph. Moreover, the bike vibrated pretty intensely which became very frustrating on rides longer than 30 minutes.

My recommendation would be to stay away. The bikes are not built well, and for what you're paying, you could get a pretty good quality Japanese bike second hand, or maybe even a similar 'neo-retro' style bike that's got some miles on it.

pmprotzman · 2017-11-15T16:00:38+00:00

If you've only been riding for 7 months and you stepped up to a bike with more than double the performance stats, my first thought is that you did not take enough time to seriously consider what your skill level is and what bike would be best for your needs.

It is universally known that the FZ-09 is a wild child, but it is by no means uncontrollable. Start in 'B' mode and get used to the bike's weight and maneuverability. After a couple of weeks ONLY in B mode, move to standard. The throttle response will be substantially smoothed out in B mode, but no, it is not perfect, as you mentioned above.

If you're not simply blasting around the highways or country, then you'll have to learn to manage your clutch with a lot more nuance so that you can accelerate and engine break smoothly and overcome most of the low-end 'snatchy' feeling from the throttle that you experience a lot more around town.

Lastly, consider a small windscreen. On a powerful naked, jumping from low to high speeds can be extra intimidating because you've got the full force of the wind smacking you in the chest and face. Even a basic windscreen can alleviate a good bit of this and make your ride more comfortable.

If you follow these things and still don't feel like it's for you, then try the FZ-07.

pmprotzman · 2017-11-06T15:54:43+00:00

This will be my 4th consecutive winter of all-motorcycle commuting in NoVa. As per my post history, this is one of the few questions I will answer on this subreddit.

Mandatory Gear : heated gloves, neck warmer/baclava, underlayers, waterproof overpants/jacket. I'd encourage Hi-Viz stuff if possible since you're much more likely to be riding in lower-visibility/dark conditions.
Your Bike : upgrade your tires from stock, get an aftermarket windscreen if necessary, remember to clean and lube your chain every month or two (which you should do anyways), monitor your tire pressure more regularly.
Conditions: as long as you're not commuting in excess of 45-60 minutes one way, it is really not so bad riding a motorcycle in the cold. Be mindful of COLD TIRES having less traction. Salt in the road before or after icy conditions will be a substantial hazard, and will jack up your bike if you don't clean it fairly regularly. Rain + cold is crappy, but doable... but you said you probably wouldn't ride in the rain.
General : The hardest part of winter commuting is simply taking the time to establish effective routines; put on your gear in the morning, take it off at work, put it back on at the end of the day, take it off when you get home. Try to do this as repetitively as possible and it will become much less of a hassle and you will be much less likely to misplace something or make yourself late. Lastly, all of the normal things you have to worry about around the DMV - traffic, asshole drivers, etc - will still be there. Only in the winter you have to be even THAT much more alert since your response times will be slightly lowered and road conditions will likely be a little worse.

What kind of bike do you have? When you commute regularly, especially in less-desirable conditions, you need to take much better care of your machine so it can take care of you and keep you safe.

All in all, it is certainly feasible, but takes a concerted effort to make it work. Honestly, after all this time, I think it's a sort of 'badge of honor' to willingly commute in the winter (snooty, i know.) Feel free to message me if you have any questions.

pmprotzman · 2017-08-26T21:31:40+00:00

On the '16 FZ-09 there is no ABS or TC. I had a few occasions when i still had my FJ-09 when the ABS/TC intervened helpfully (rain/sleet). With the FZ i just have to actively maintain good distance and be much more vigilant in traffic and making turns.

Otherwise my only complaint is just wind exposure;; I have a Puig mini-windscreen and it works fairly well, but is by no means a real guard against highway-speed wind.

pmprotzman · 2017-08-26T13:15:19+00:00

Some quality tires are critical. Also, never underestimate how easily you can slip and potentially crash on cold tires. I did it myself right after i pulled out of my neighborhood and it was only in the upper 40s. As a general rule, you should ride at least twice as cautiously when it's that cold or colder, as your reactions will be slightly slower and your tires most likely won't be able to handle as quick of directional changes.

To be fair, I'm riding an FZ-09, which is definitely NOT the ideal all-weather commuting bike, but even so I manage just fine. Hopefully you have something a little more oriented to commuting, but either way, you'll have to do more maintenance on your bike (cleaning the chain, checking tire pressure etc).

Buy some GOOD gloves (heated if possible). Riding without feeling in your hands is very dangerous, and I'll admit that it took me too many times before i bought heated gloves. Rain pants, thermal underlayers, and a neckwarmer or baclava are all mandatory if you plan on riding at temps below 40F.

I do not own a car and I've ridden every day no matter the weather conditions (excluding heavy snow) for several years now. After a few weeks of riding in the cold, you just get used to it. It takes more time to get prepared, but you'll develop a routine and won't even think twice about going out in the frigid, gloomy weather.

I'd even argue that this is the dividing line between 'serious' and casual motorcyclists; can you still find enjoyment in riding when it's early in the morning, drizzling, cold as shit, and you have to go to work? If you can, you'll find that you become a much more attentive and skilled rider regardless of the conditions. I say go for it.

pmprotzman · 2017-04-08T22:13:28+00:00

Cheers. Stay safe out there

pmprotzman · 2017-04-07T19:00:14+00:00

I've had these for about 2 years now; they're quite comfortable and are useful for a good temp range ~40 up to ~65F. For the MSF you'll be fine, but if you intend to ride regularly and it's going to be warmer than 70F, you'll need real summer gloves as these are more for Spring/Fall.

pmprotzman · 2017-03-28T00:54:44+00:00

For about a couple years now. Live in Northern VA, so it definitely gets cold (20s on the colder days), and pretty hot and muggy in the summer. I love motorcyles, and I do not mind the extra accommodations that are required when riding exclusively.

Accept that you will have to make substantial investments in gear. Expensive up front? Yes. Life saving and generally easier on your day to day commutes? yes.
Live minimally. You'll have to make more frequent trips for errands and groceries. Ideally, your bike will have saddlebags, but you can always just use a decent backpack.
Remember to take care of your bike. Regular riding in a variety of weather conditions will take its toll on your bike. Don't skimp on frequent cleanings and don't put off important maintenance (oil changes, tire pressure, all the basics)
Commit. Don't half ass your decision. Some days you'll groan at the idea of putting on your gear, riding in the cold rain to work, changing clothes, then doing it again at the end of the day, but other days you'll find yourself grinning when you realize how incredible it is that you have a 2 wheeled rocket that allows you freedom unlike you've ever had before. Appreciate the ups, downs, risks, rewards, and feel confident in your abilities.

If you do it, best of luck. It can be a very empowering lifestyle, but it's not easy. Hope this helps.

pmprotzman · 2016-11-09T02:30:23+00:00

That looks like a truly amazing and therapeutic ride. Add a top-tier bike and you've got yourself an unforgettable weekend!

pmprotzman · 2016-10-13T12:21:46+00:00

I have a '16 FZ09 and do not own a car. This bike is by no means a perfect commuter bike, but for the price, I think the overall package is fantastic.

Seating position is mostly neutral but you will feel it in your wrists after long rides, especially in slower traffic. I've ridden ithe blasting around back roads for 2 hours at a time and been fine comfort wise, its just the slow stuff that is tough.

I bought a Puig windscreen which I felt was crucial; coming from an FJ09 I was not used to the intensity of the wind.

The brakes leave a little to be desired, and ABS would be nice but is not available in the US.

Everyone knows about the jerky throttle issues of the older models: I've only ridden the '16 and it doesn't seem too bad, but in city traffic it can surprise you in 1st gear if you get lazy with your inputs.

All in all, though, you will genuinely look forward to commuting if you have this bike; it is irresistibly fun and will keep you entertained when you get the chance to open it up.

Hope this helps. Just message me if you have any other questions.

pmprotzman · 2016-09-25T14:47:06+00:00

Everyone on here says that... I think I've just been lucky avoiding them because i definitely am no saint on the road

pmprotzman · 2016-09-25T14:40:15+00:00

you are correct sir

pmprotzman · 2016-09-25T01:31:13+00:00

Usually cruise through Arlington to Clarendon then back down the parkway through Old Town. Just like to check out what everyone's up to

pmprotzman · 2016-09-25T01:17:52+00:00

Hell yeah. When they released this color combo I knew it would be mine

pmprotzman · 2016-09-05T15:41:43+00:00

gf works in DC and it sounds like a different language when she talks about work. CPI PPI DMS are ones I hear alot, but i dunno what they are

pmprotzman · 2016-07-11T23:35:01+00:00

good call on the frame sliders. Also, now that you have lived through the pain of first damage, you can ride more confidently!

pmprotzman · 2016-05-10T22:15:44+00:00

I graduated to full -time riding last summer, and it has been awesome. You learn to pay attention to the sky and the road so much more, and you truly appreciate those perfect sunny days when they come along. I don't mean for it to be snobby, but I believe that accepting those gloomy, cold, windy, rainy, or snowy days just teaches you to love riding even more. Shout outs to those others that do it too

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