DUCATI DIAVEL 1260
Ducati Diavel 1260 unconventional, unique, and unmistakeable
Originally launched at EICMA 2010, the second-generation Diavel 1260 remains faithful to the original spirit of that incredibly special bike, drawing on its key styling elements yet bringing them decidedly up to date.
Now, the Diavel has more assertive outlines and higher performance, is more fun on mixed-road routes and even more comfortable, for rider and passenger alike. Its sport naked Testastretta DVT 1262 engine that combines breath-taking acceleration with the smooth low-rev power delivery magnifies soul that is ideal for everyday rides or longer-lasting tours.
An upgraded chassis set-up makes the Diavel 1260 more responsive on mixed-road routes while high-grade technology and electronics provide braking performance on a par with that of a sport bike (and does so safely, thanks to Bosch Cornering ABS) and user-friendly engine performance control. Comfort levels for rider and passenger remain outstanding thanks to, first and foremost, an upright riding position and a large, generously padded seat.
The beating heart of the new Diavel 1260 is the 1262 cm3 Ducati Testastretta DVT engine with variable cam timing. Already widely appreciated on the XDiavel, it has now been upgraded to optimise performance and equipped with chain-type final transmission. This engine also provides a clean, classy side view with a quality finish, establishing it as the core of the bike also from a style standpoint.
The twin-cylinder Diavel 1260 puts out 159 hp (117 kW) at 9,500 rpm* and 129 Nm (13.1 kgm) at 7,500 rpm, delivering steady pulling power right from the low-medium rev range to ensure a robust engine response as and when needed. Thanks to a variable timing system which acts continuously on the intake and exhaust camshafts, the engine adjusts power delivery to suit riding conditions: extremely smooth at low revs, assertively sporty at high revs. Moreover, the S version mounts Ducati Quick Shift up & down Evo (DQS) as standard to allow clutchless shifting.
The riding position and 'power cruiser' ergonomics so popular with first-generation diavelisti remain unchanged. What has changed is the chassis set-up? The new Diavel sports a prominent new tubular steel Trellis frame. Anchored to it is an aluminium swing arm, sized to give surprising cornering agility, superb 'feel' and easy riding. The rear wheel - 240 mm wide with a diameter of 17 inches - remains a Diavel hallmark and, together with the new chassis set-up, merges excellent handling and lean angles with outstanding comfort levels.