Ducati Diavel 1260 2019 — Specifications

When Ducati first released the Diavel, many scoffed. A V-twin sport in a cruiser’s clothing, with a 240 mm rear tire borrowed from an American custom, all priced like a high-end sportbike. Then they rode one, and the scoffing turned to respect. The 2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 pushes this logic even further, swapping out the old 1198 Testastretta for the 1262 cm3 bicylinder with variable valve timing already seen on the Multistrada. The result announces 159 hp at 9500 rpm and 129.5 Nm at 7500 rpm, for a machine that exceeds 244 kg when fully fueled. On paper, it looks like a problem. On the road, it’s a different conversation.

This engine deserves closer examination. The increase to 1262 cm3 wasn't accompanied by an explosion of raw power, but by a refinement of character. The piston stroke lengthened to 71.5 mm and the compression ratio raised to 13:1 work in concert with the variable camshaft timing to deliver a more homogeneous torque curve in the mid-range. Concretely, the machine responds better coming out of a tight corner without the rider needing to change gear. Service intervals increase to 15,000 km, which for a Ducati is almost a miracle. Those who owned a previous generation will appreciate this.

The chassis has also evolved intelligently. The tubular trellis frame is reduced to the bare minimum to hold the steering column, the engine assuming part of the structural role as on the XDiavel. The aluminum swingarm anchors directly to the cylinders, flanked by forged alloy plates. The wheelbase of 1600 mm has been slightly lengthened compared to the previous generation, but the rake reduced to 120 mm and the steering head angle tightened to 27 degrees maintain correct responsiveness to engagement. The large 240/45-17 rear tire remains a topic of debate, but the Diavel has always known how to digest it as soon as the speed increases. 48 mm fully adjustable inverted forks and a single rear shock constitute the equipment of the base version of the Ducati Diavel 1260, the S version reserving Öhlins and Brembo M50 for buyers who want to push things further.

Electronics represent the real leap forward in this generation. The 6-axis inertial platform conditions a more precise cornering ABS and traction control, the anti-wheelie completes the picture. Three riding modes, a cruise control, the launch control, full LED lighting and keyless start are standard. The 3.5-inch TFT screen positioned in front of the tank offers four display configurations according to taste. Faced with a Harley-Davidson Fat Bob or an Indian Chief Dark Horse targeting the same muscular cruiser segment, the Diavel plays in a different technological court. The 780 mm seat remains accessible for a reasonable build, the 17-liter tank allows for honest autonomy considering the consumption measured at 5.4 liters per 100 km.

At €20,490 for the standard version, the Ducati Diavel 1260 price is justified by the density of the onboard equipment and an engine whose sonic signature is immediately recognizable. It's not a motorcycle for everyone, nor for beginners discovering 159 hp in such a frame. It’s a machine for an experienced rider who wants a versatile mount with a strong temperament, capable of swallowing a national road with ease and then gently terrorizing the alleys of an Italian city. Ducati Diavel 1260 accessories and Ducati Diavel 1260 exhausts available in the official catalog allow you to personalize the whole according to your desires. For those looking for a used Ducati Diavel 2019, the first units are beginning to circulate at digestible prices. Nevertheless, new, this motorcycle knows exactly what it is, and it embraces it without complex.