Does the handsome new Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally have what it takes to topple the mighty BMW R1250GS Adventure?

Ducati’s new Rally version of the already astonishing Multistrada V4S adds a long-range 30-litre fuel tank, more off-road capability and extra features to what was already arguably the ultimate all-rounder.

But that recipe is nothing new. BMW’s big-tanked, more rugged Adventure version of the R1250GS has been the benchmark for years and remains a bestseller.

What’s more, as tested, both are fully loaded with every feature and gizmo – creating a package which takes their combined value to near £50,000.

So, does Ducati’s newer, more powerful, more sophisticated Rally have the speed and savvy to usurp the old king? Or is BMW’s proven and still classy GSA still the ‘ultimate ultimate adventure bike’?