Ducati Diavel News

By Kevin Ash - 06/11/2010

Ducati has finally unveiled the stunning new Diavel at a special press conference in Milan.

The bike is a long and low street rod design powered by an uprated version of the Multistrada's 1198cc liquid-cooled V-twin, with an additional 12bhp at more than 160bhp.

The Diavel features the same electronics package as the Multistrada, including electronically adjustable suspension and traction control according to load and riding style, as well as adjustable ABS.

But it's the bike's styling which is the headline grabber: the look is a very aggressive mass-forward one, while from the seat the long, flat tank and instrument surround is intended to mimic the feel of the bonnet of an American muscle car, which, in fact, it does.

The bike features a new and huge 240/45 section rear Pirelli Diablo 2 fitted to a vast 8 inch rim, while the wheelbase is a stretched out 1590mm, thanks to the 28 degree rake of the forks. The dry weight is claimed at 210kg, making the Diavel substantially lighter than its most obvious rivals, the Yamaha V-Max and Harley-Davidson V-Rod, to the point where Ducati claims the Diavel is in a category of its own.

Because of the low centre of gravity and long wheelbase, Ducati says the bike's braking performance, powered by Monobloc Brembos, is better than any other bike in its range, including the 1198. For the same reasons the acceleration is also exceptional.

It's not yet clear who will be buying the bike, but Ducati dealers at their own conference were very enthusiastic and seemed sure they could sell plenty of Diavels. No price has yet been announced but it is likely to be around £14- £15,000.

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