The Ducati Diavel has undergone some dramatic changes since the powerful cruiser was introduced in 2011. The Diavel was originally powered by a 1198cc Testastretta L-twin engine with a claimed 162bhp. In 2016 Ducati introduced the XDiavel with more conventional cruiser styling and ergonomics and a new Testastretta 1262cc L-twin with more low-end torque, and in 2019 Ducati launched the world’s best Diavel 1260.
Related story: 2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S | Review of the first trip
Ducati is changing the Diavel game again this year with the 2023 Ducati Diavel V4 featuring a 1158cc V4 Granturismo engine that delivers a claimed 168bhp.
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Ducati says the V4 Granturismo is “the ideal engine for a cruiser, able to combine linear power at low revs with strong torque throughout the rev range”, adding that the Diavel V4 should appeal to a wide variety of riders, “from sport to enthusiasts looking for a more comfortable and stylish motorcycle, to those who want to ride in an urban and relaxed environment, to performance and drag racing enthusiasts.”
From a visual perspective, the Diavel V4 continues to offer the blend of conventional yet still muscular styling typical of a 2011 bike. Ducati says the bike was inspired by the looks of muscle cars and superhero aesthetics, resulting in styling that evokes “an athlete ready to jump off the starting blocks, with all the mass concentrated at the front and a moving, streamlined tail.”
2023 Ducati Diavel V4 Engine
The V4 Granturismo engine is the centerpiece of the Diavel V4 design. Ducati says this technical choice simultaneously improves performance, dynamics and riding pleasure as a result of the crankshaft rotating in the opposite direction, which reduces the gyroscopic effect while increasing the bike’s maneuverability. The lightweight and compact V4 Granturismo is derived from the Desmosedici Stradale Panigale and Streetfighter V4.
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The V4 Granturismo also features low running costs with capital maintenance at 37,000 mile intervals and efficient fuel consumption and emissions thanks to an advanced cylinder deactivation system. This feature allows the engine to operate as a two-cylinder as well as a four-cylinder, disabling rear roll not only when the vehicle is stationary, but also when driving at low engine speeds with reduced engine load.
2023 Ducati Diavel V4 chassis and ergonomics
Compared to the Diavel 1260 S, the 2023 Diavel V4 has reduced curb weight by 28.6 pounds and a total dry weight of 491.6 pounds.
The Diavel V4 features an inverted 50mm fork and cantilever shock, both fully adjustable. Travel has been increased by 0.6 inches over the previous model. The supersport-like braking system features 330mm discs and Brembo Stylema calipers.
The bike has a wide and low seat (31.1 inches), center pegs, and a tall handlebar that sits 0.78 inches closer than the Diavel 1260, and passengers ride on a roomy seat, retractable footrests, and a telescoping the back will grab the bar. The easy-to-install standard passenger seat allows the Diavel V4 to transform from a two-seater to a single-seater with minimal effort.
2023 Ducati Diavel V4 Electronics
The Diavel V4 comes with three power modes and four ride modes: Sport, Touring, Urban and a new Wet mode designed for low-grip road surfaces. Driving assistance systems include 6-axis IMU, Ducati Traction Control in Cornering version, ABS Cornering and Ducati Wheelie Control, as well as Cruise Control, Launch Control and Ducati Quick Shift.
All electronic systems are controlled via backlit steering wheel controls and a new 5-inch color TFT display, which also offers Bluetooth connectivity to pair your smartphone for calls, texts and music. An optional turn-by-turn navigation system is also available.
Other options include 48-litre semi-hard covers, a passenger backrest and a Touring windscreen. Billets, carbon parts, dry clutch (racing use only), forged discs and red or black brake calipers further expand the personalization possibilities of the new Diavel V4. The 2023 Diavel V4 will be offered in classic Ducati Red or Thrilling Black and will be available in US and Canadian dealerships beginning in spring 2023.
Pricing will start at an MSRP of $26,695 in Ducati Red or $26,995 for the breathtaking Black.
Additional information is available at Ducati website.
https://ridermagazine.com/2022/10/31/2023-ducati-diavel-v4-first-look-review/
