Concept
The Diavel project was born when Ducati designers applied their
wish-list of bike “basic instincts” to a blank canvas. With a “what if?”
approach to creating a dream bike, they sketched inspiring shapes which
became a lower and longer motorcycle.
“The challenge of building a muscular silhouette over a pure-bred
competition motor had to be met with determination and a delicate touch,
and the result is a frontal area that looks like a power athlete on the
starting blocks,” explains the team at Ducati Design responsible for
the project. “With the front wheel kept close to the Diavel’s body and
using the short tail of a sport bike, we were able to blend this
muscular design with a chassis that matched.”
Design
The stance of the Diavel is that of readiness, dominance, and confidence
bordering on superiority. With lateral radiators adding muscle to its
broad “shoulders,” which then taper down across the engine and into the
belly-fairing with oil cooler, the athlete took shape.
A massive 240 section rear tyre was a perfect example of how Diavel
designers used a no-compromise attitude when applying their wish list of
features. The sheer width of rubber communicates so much power and
style that the R&D team vowed to find a way to make it handle - even
if they knew the image would send a seismic shock through the industry.
The Diavel is a true Ducati, born from a passion for motorcycling and
designed to deliver authentic Ducati performance in every respect.
Riding Modes
The Diavel incorporates the very latest in innovative Ducati
technologies, including the recently introduced electronic Riding Modes.
Selectable from the left-hand switchgear - even while riding - the
choice of three pre-set modes are programmed to instantly change the
character of the Diavel. The three modes are enabled by combining
class-leading technologies such as Ride-by-Wire (RbW) and Ducati
Traction Control (DTC).
As riding on city streets can require more attention to the surroundings
than to throttle inputs, the Urban Riding Mode instantly changes the
Diavel to provide a manageable and confident ride. Power output is
reduced to 100hp and DTC is further enhanced to level 5 to provide a
higher system intervention during the most chaotic of stop-start
traffic.
The Touring Riding Mode is programmed to produce 162hp, however, with a
smoother, more user-friendly power delivery. Rear end traction is
enhanced by increasing DTC system intervention to level 4, specifically
intended for an enjoyable and relaxing ride ideal for long distance and
ensuring maximum comfort for both the rider and passenger.
The Sport Riding Mode provides the Diavel rider with an
adrenalin-fuelled 162hp ride and enables the rider to have full-on
throttle response for maximum acceleration. Ensuring the full
Testastretta 11° experience, the sport mode also lowers the DTC system
intervention to level 3 for riders who prefer their performance a little
closer to the traction limit.