If so, your wait is almost over. With Multistrada and Streetfighter taking the Panigale V4-derived engine, it was only a matter of time before Diavel gained top gun status.
With the introduction of the 1158cc V4 Granturismo engine, the Diavel’s performance takes another leap forward, or perhaps a small step. Generating 168hp (125kW) and 128Nm of torque at 7500rpm, this is surprisingly about the same output as the 1260 V-twin generates. Go figure.
Featuring a counter-rotating crankshaft that reduces gyroscopic wheel effect, the new engine increases the bike’s willingness to enter corners and change direction. It also has cylinder deactivation capability, the rear bank shutting down at standstill or under minimal load. The sound is evidently deeper in this mode. Major maintenance intervals are set at 60,000km.
Dubbed Diavel V4 this will likely appeal to former sports bike enthusiasts looking for a more comfortable and stylish but still brutal bike. On that, Ducati quotes a 0-100 time of under 3sec for the V4 but then we’d expect that given we extracted a 2.9sec sprint time for the original V2 model.
There are three power modes and four ride modes, Sport, Touring, Urban and Wet. Ducati Traction Control (Cornering version), ABS Cornering and Ducati Wheelie Control adapt accordingly.
Cruise control and Ducati Quickshifter are standard-fit items while Launch Control helps with those drag starts. Electronic systems can be manipulated through the five-inch color TFT dashboard, which also offers Bluetooth connectivity for pairing a smartphone.
Pick the Diavel V4 by its four-pipe exhaust. The signature front and rear LED light clusters and turn signals are also giveaways and on the V4 the front DRL features a double-C profile. Dynamic turn signals are integrated into the handlebars, ahead of the brake and the clutch reservoirs.
Like twin-cylinder Diavels, the V4 features a massive 240/45 rear tyre. The wheels are five-spoke alloys with machined surfaces.
Surprisingly, the Diavel V4 weighs 13kg less than the Diavel 1260 S, scaling up at 223kg before fuel. Suspension is fully adjustable both ends, with inverted 50mm forks up front. Travel at the rear is 15mm up on that of the Diavel 1260 for improved long distance comfort. Brakes are Brembo Stylemas, acting on 330mm rotors up front.
The riding position is similar to that of the Diavel 1260, with a seat height of 790mm and centrally mounted footpegs but handlebars are set 20mm closer to the rider for enhanced control. Pillion footpegs and grab bar are essentially invisible in the closed position, and with the standard pillion seat cover in place the Diavel V4 can be turned into a single-seater quickly and easily.
The new cruiser already has pannier fixtures, so buying the accessory bags quickly turns this into a tourer. An aftermarket exhaust, carbon parts, forged wheels and brake calipers in red or black color add to customisation options.
Diavel V4 will go on sale early next year, available in red or black. No price is available as yet but expect it to be north of the Diavel 1260 S which sells here for $42k.
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