Ducati Diavel 1260 S 2022 — Specifications

The Diavel attacked 2022 long before the others. The 'Black & Steel' color scheme is highlighted, with a coating of gray and black holding hostage the mechanical yellow – which had made lovely pieces of sunshine on the 748, certain Monsters and other Bologna-born temperaments. Technically, a small Euro5 revision is accompanied by a slap in the face of classic, draconian standards’ sentences: the Diavel produces more horsepower! 3 gained for a total of 162 horsepower at 9,500 rpm. A slight weight gain as well, of 3 kilos.

For a long time, Ducati has almost systematically offered an S version of its high-wattage models: Panigale V4 S, Multistrada S, Monster 1200 S, Hypermotard S... since the 996 S. And sometimes small deviations. This was the case for the Diavel, whose higher-end version bore the name Carbon. This time, everything is back in order with the Diavel 1260 S, adorned with more noble elements.

With its variable distribution DVT engine and revised displacement, the Diavel announces, with its 162 horsepower, more force in the mid-range and more watts at the top. Its new chassis promises more agility, while the S refines its ground connections.

As usual, the Öhlins supplier is called upon for its suspensions. A 48 mm inverted fork replaces the 50 mm Marzocchi, both fully adjustable. Although less generous in dimensions, the Swedish fork will offer a road feel and superior efficiency. Same for the rear shock absorber, adjustable in all directions. The Carbon did not have the right to its assets; it mainly differed by its lightweight rims and carbon fiber parts. It gains on one side what it loses on the other. The attributes of the Carbon are not carried over. Although it no longer has the forged aluminum Marchesini wheels, it still offers a small surface treatment on its wheels, just to make it premium. We would still have preferred lighter wheels, to boost agility.

The Diavel S seriously considers sportiness with Brembo M50 brake calipers and an Up&Down shifter. It adds an extra touch of class with an insert on the seat and a DRL light signature in the headlight. It has interactivity with an embedded multimedia system. Once the smartphone is paired with the Diavel, the user can manage their calls, texts, and music from the motorcycle. Electronically, the Diavel and Diavel S are equally well-equipped, with cruise control, 3 riding modes, 4 display modes on the dashboard, 3 power modes, cornering ABS, backlit switches, traction control, anti-wheeling, keyless start, low-speed assist, Bosch 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), 3.5-inch TFT color screen, and automatic-off turn signals.

Priced 3,000 euros more than the Diavel 1260, this S version makes the road more active, more dynamic, and the motorcycle more "precious." Despite its name, it is not the reincarnation of the devil; but the latter would certainly have chosen it to make a remarkable entrance.

M.B - Photos constructeur