Ducati Diavel Review
Despite the Diavel Carbon weighing in at a claimed 456 pounds dry and featuring bulkier dimensions than any other Ducati, the Diavel still handles very well. This is due to true Ducati know-how, and the fact that the motorcycle’s 162-horsepower, liquid-cooled 1200cc L-twin and trellis frame are based on the 1198 Superbike.
The Diavel’s motor is the same Testastretta II found on the Multistrada, but with a massive exhaust system that boost power over the ‘Strada by 12 horses. The midrange of the Diavel engine is very impressive.
Central to the riding experience is the Ducati’s exclusive Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 240/45-ZR17 rear tire. The sharper profile helps turning the bike into corners and the sticky sportbike compound keeps it all in shape.
I’m impressed with the Diavel’s stability in all situations, and it enjoys sporty riding and cruising equally much. Whether I found myself in sixth gear on the motorway feeding the throttle from 4000 rpm into the never-ending midrange, or chasing the top revs in second gear out of tight corners, the experience was that of powerful solidness through and through.
The seat is comfortable all day in all scenarios and there are hardly any vibrations at all to talk about. Attention to detail and finish is a new high for Ducati on the Diavel. The majority of components are made of steel, aluminum or carbon fiber; I struggled finding much plastic at all.
The electronics package is impressive with such features as a well-functioning traction control, ABS, and three different preset riding modes–and each of those are adjustable.
I had lots of fun today leaving long black lines out of the corners leading us up from Marbella to Ronda and down again. This bike is very capable and definitely no cruiser. The Diavel is more like a comfy Monster on steroids.
