Ups
- Power waits on your hand and foot thanks to a 1,262cc V-twin with variable valve timing and desmodromic valve actuation
- Un-cruiser-like suspension and brake components give the Diavel more than a fighting chance against sportier bikes
- Superbike-inspired electronics increase safety and enable riders to tune performance to their desires
Downs
- 240-section rear tire looks cool (if you’re into that sort of thing) but hinders handling
- If Ducati is going after some of Harley’s US market share, the Diavel shows it doesn’t really understand the American cruiser rider
Verdict
There are some who would say an Italian take on an American style will always turn out a bit mad. But 159 hp and 95 pound-feet of torque (claimed) is the best kind of mad.
Overview
In 2011, a year after Ducati debuted the Multistrada 1200, the Diavel was unveiled using a retuned Testastretta 11° engine. The Diavel was revised for 2015 before getting an overhaul for 2019, headlined by sleeker styling and a 1,262cc Testastretta with variable valve timing. Ducati’s formula for performance doesn’t naturally lend itself to a cruiser-style motorcycle, but the Borgo Panigale brand does a commendable job of conveying that on the Diavel, cruising is in the service of performance. In other words, the Diavel is a performance motorcycle—not a sportbike, mind you, but a performance motorcycle nonetheless, thanks to composed handling and up-spec suspension, brakes, and electronics.
Updates for 2021
For 2021 the Ducati Diavel 1260 is available in Dark Stealth and Sandstone Grey colors. The S model is available in Total Black, Ducati Red, and Black & Steel (as a 2022 model).
Pricing and Variants
The base-model 2021 Ducati Diavel 1260 starts at $20,995. The S model starts at $23,395 for Ducati Red; True black is $23,995, and Black & Steel is $24,395. The S model is distinguished from the base model with fully adjustable Öhlins suspension, lighter wheels, and otherwise optional equipment including Ducati Multimedia System, an up/down quickshifter, and daytime running lights.
For riders looking for a more exclusive Diavel, the Diavel 1260 Lamborghini ($31,995) is limited to 630 units, and marks the first time Lamborghini and Ducati (both part of the VW/Audi Group conglomerate) have collaborated on a production machine. The Diavel 1260 Lamborghini features redesigned air intakes and radiator covers, forged wheels, and carbon fiber details.
Competition
For a British take on muscle cruising, check out the Triumph Rocket 3.
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Ducati Diavel has a 1,262cc engine with variable valve timing, producing a claimed 157 hp at 9,250 rpm and 95 pound-feet of torque at 7,500 rpm. In his first ride review of the 2019 model, Morgan Gales says, “Overall, the engine character and performance make it unlike any cruiser on the market; it’s torquey without being a torque monster, really coming to life around 6,000 rpm and singing all the way to its 9,000-rpm redline.”
Handling
Gales notes: “The Diavel held the intended line, unimpeded by passing bumps on the road, and the riding position and seat let the rider adjust body position to further enhance cornering response. And on straight sections, the combination of top-shelf suspension and a comfortably padded seat made the bike smooth-riding and enjoyable. It was plush and controlled, with excellent overall stability.”
Brakes
The base-model Diavel uses Brembo M4.32 calipers, while the S model steps up to Brembo M50 units for improved performance. Cornering ABS is standard equipment in all trims.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Ducati claims the Diavel 1260 achieves 42 mpg.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
Unlike more traditional feet-forward cruisers, the Diavel’s mid-controls enable the rider to move around and hustle the motorcycle through twisties. It also helps riders coming from the non-cruiser world feel at home. While it’s no touring rig, Ducati’s accessory catalog does include a backrest for passengers.
Electronics
The Diavel’s suite of rider aids includes Bosch cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, ride modes, power modes, launch control, and an up/down quickshifter. A TFT dash and full-LED lighting round out the bike’s modern features.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Diavel 1260 has a 24-month, unlimited-mileage warranty.
Quality
Pride of ownership is a priority for a premium brand like Ducati so fit and finish and quality materials abound.
2021 Ducati Diavel 1260 Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | $20,995 (base)/$23,395 (S)/$31,995 (Lamborghini) |
| Engine: | 1,262cc, liquid-cooled, 90-degree V-twin w/ desmodromic variable valve timing; 4 valves/cyl. |
| Bore x Stroke: | 106.0 x 71.5mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Fuel Delivery: | Electronic fuel injection w/ 56mm elliptical throttle bodies |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate slipper and self-servo; hydraulic operation |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | Ride-by-wire/TCI |
| Frame: | Tubular steel trellis |
| Front Suspension: | Adjustable 50mm USD fork (base)/fully adjustable Öhlins 48mm USD fork (S model, Lamborghini); 4.7 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Preload and rebound adjustable monoshock (base)/fully adjustable Öhlins monoshock (S model, Lamborghini); 5.1 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | Brembo M4.32 4-piston caliper (base)/Brembo M50 4-piston caliper (S model, Lamborghini), dual 320mm discs w/ cornering ABS |
| Rear Brake: | Brembo 2-piston floating caliper, 265mm disc w/ cornering ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Alloy wheels (base)/cast and machined alloy (S model); 17 x 3.50 in. / 17 x 8.0 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | 120/70ZR-17 / 240/45ZR-17 |
| Rake/Trail: | 27.0°/4.7 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 63.0 in. |
| Seat Height: | 30.7 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 4.2 gal. |
| Wet Weight: | 544 lb. (base, S model)/ 542 lb. (Lamborghini) |
| Contact: | ducati.com |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com