[OwenM]

Greetings to all, been occupied elsewhere for a while.

Got a ride on the Diavel a couple of days ago, as others have said it looks a lot better in the metal than in photos, not exactly attractive in my view but certainly purposeful.
Its low and feels remarkably light while stationary, a feeling that continues when under way. The look my be cruiser but the weight is certainly not.

Once under way the first thing that struck me was the grunt of the motor, the milder cam timing and 70mm exhaust give the 1198 motor huge torque, just twist the throttle and you are gone, no waiting for revs to build. With 4000rpm or more on board it feels like it would send you into orbit, great fun.
Unlike the 1198 sports bike I rode throttle response was smooth and very manageable even in the most aggressive "Sports" mode. Combine that with the smooth and relatively light wet clutch and city progress is easy, well done Ducati.

I did not spend much time at freeway speeds but airflow seemed smooth with not much pressure pushing against my chest. The small screen that is available would likely make things worse and result in turbulence.

The suspension setup on the bike I rode was firm, too firm for comfort as far as I am concerned. This was quite different to the other bike on the showroom floor that was soft in the rear and firm up front.
I am a big fan of supple suspension with very good front rear match so I remain unconvinced the Diavel is up to the task suspension wise.

Steering was quite accurate and turn in good, however once leaning over there was no escaping the influence of that massive rear tyre as the bike wants to stand up rather than stay leaned over. The big tyre is simply a case of fashion over function, not a good move IMHO.

After only 15 minutes the seat became quite uncomfortable due to the unusual shape, and for a bike of this type this is a serious failing. There is a "touring" seat available as an option but I don't know how much of an improvident it provides.


I was looking at the Diavel as a replacement for a true sports bike but with greater comfort and a more relaxed riding position. The engine is fantastic but unfortunately the ordinary suspension and seat where a great disappointment. Add in the limitations imposed buy the big rear tyre and the Diavel is not for me.

The Diavel's case was not helped when I stepped off it and onto the new Multistrada. Wow what a great bike that is to ride.