@Racer242 It's early days I know, but there are some immediate items and if I leave it longer the changes I experienced will likely dim.. I enjoyed the Ducati MTS 950s for three years because it is an extraordinarily capable and exciting machine but the 'tiring' aspects of it made me look for a more relaxing ride. I test rode a couple of Mandellos last year but whilst I loved the drivetrain and the compact feel that reminded me of my 1980 LeMans II, the riding position strained my back just as the LeMans did 40 years ago but it is not nearly as resilient now... When the new Stelvio was announced it seemed that I might get to have my cake and eat it. That fabulous drivetrain with an ADV riding position was exactly what I have been looking for.
Engine: The V100 is incredibly flexible and well metered. It pulls from 2000 rpm in 6th gear two-up with luggage, it sounds just right as a Moto Guzzi. I'm looking forwards to the experience over the 6000 rpm running-in rev limit. The Ducati was unhappy below 3000 and vibrated too much everywhere. However it had a really addictive induction roar that made you want to rev it out every time. It also had a lot of high-frequency noise that gets tiring after a few hours in the saddle. I am very happy to have shaft drive again versus having chain lube duty.
Comfort: The Stelvio seat is a revelation after the MTS. It's deep rumble is so preferable to the cacophony from the MTS and together with the seat make long-distance rides much more tolerable. The Stelvio screen works better for me than the old bike's did, too.
Handling: The Stelvio gives confidence at all speeds and also when stationary. It is slower steering and has the same planted feel as the Multistrada but encourages you to choose your lines and stick to them. I was never happy taking the Ducati on gravel, but here again the Stelvio gives confidence. On the road, neither bike is upset by mid-corner bumps but here is where the most noticeable difference lies.
Ride Quality: The little 's' in the Ducati's name means it has the Skyhook semi-active suspension that I have just described as witchcraft on multiple occasions. It's ability to flatten-out the road surface whether charging at 100mph or leant over on a bumpy secondary road is just superb. The lack of adjustability on the Stelvio's rear shock is problematic, as several others have said. I don't find it too harsh on most surfaces but it is clear that it just cannot recover from fast repeated deflections so washboard surfaces can be punishing.
Fit and Finish: I feel Audi's influence on Ducati wins out versus Piaggio. Longer term ownership may prove different.
Price: The Ducati came as an S Touring edition with panniers, heated grips and centre-stand. It has a quick-shifter and Skyhook as standard, with 4 years' warranty and Europe-wide recovery service. Optioning up the Stelvio comes to a similar price, although the Piaggio recovery service is limited to breakdowns caused by warranty issues.
I thought the Multistrada was an exceptional bike but right now for me, in the Stelvio I have a better all-rounder that will suit me better. For anyone looking for more owner feedback I hope that this will prove useful.