Motorcycle specifications DucatiDiavel V4 2023 A bride for Lucifer.

The Ducati Diavel shook things up, to say the least, when it came out. A mix of roadster and custom, with a Superbike boiler in its belly. A power-cruiser with so many watts under its bonnet was unheard of. After a good decade of violence, she decided to move on to totally different, equally demonic muscle.

With a V4. A big V4, to crack power at every level. This horsepower-packed engine has become an essential part of the automaker's line-up. By replacing the huge 1262 cm3 twin with this 1158 cm3 block, Ducati announces a logical increase in performance with a different character, punctuated by the "Twin Pulse" timing.

The Diavel V4 delivers 168 hp at 10,750 rpm. That's six more horsepower than the Diavel V2, although the rider will have to go 1,250 rpm higher. Inevitably, the smaller displacement means less torque, but 1/2 mkg less torque won't be too detrimental, as the punch of 12.8 mkg can be copious.
For those curious about the mill's provenance, don't think it's been transplanted from the Panigale or Streetfighter. No, no; Bologna preferred a less "aggressive" version. This is the Granturismo version, developed for the Multistrada. The engine is a little less powerful than on the trail bike, in exchange for an earlier maximum torque.

This engine can also be transformed into a twin-cylinder in certain conditions. Not at all to please the purists, but to reduce fuel consumption. Thanks to the extended deactivation system, the rear dyno is deactivated when driving under light load or at a standstill. Another consequence is a change in sound. Deeper, the music begins with a rumble, before all the bells and whistles are awakened and lyrical brightening takes place as the engine revs up.

the Diavel V4' s temperament is clearly expressed by its strong, almost thick lines, yet muscular as dry abs. Its bulldog look provokes rather than threatens, with a new inverted double-C light signature, eager air scoops, less integrated but more mischievous fairing side elements, beautifully designed rims, that still huge 240 mm rear tire and a few shock images. Like the rear lights, designed like devilish beehives embedded in the wheel arch. Or the muffler, with its 4 tailpipes clearly displaying the engine's architecture. Above all, finally, the V4 - highly visible because there's no frame around it.

Wow , the Ducat fan club swallows hard. Again, we say. Once again, another model where the iconic tubular trellis disappears. Instead, an aluminum monocoque structure supports the connection between the engine, the 50 mm inverted fork and the Sachs shock absorber. Given the price of this Diavel, it's surprising not to find Öhlins. But hey.... What's more, the suspension is fully adjustable. The rear even has 15 mm more travel, which should have an impact on comfort.
In Bologna, nostalgia tends to take a back seat to certain priorities. This is immediately apparent with the simple number 13. That's how much weight the Diavel V4 has shed since the 1260 S. A five-kilo difference on the engine alone, and eight extra kilos on the chassis. Acceleration and agility will appreciate its 211 kilos (dry). It takes less than 3 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. Decelerating can also be a delightfully efficient exercise with Brembo Stylema calipers. Watch your forearms as they bite into the 330 mm discs. It's the same as a hypersport, with a few kilos more to keep down.

ergonomics on this bike change just a little from the Diavel "V2": the seat is a hair higher (790 mm instead of 780 mm) and the handlebars are 20 mm closer. The seat is wide, still deceptively selfish. The clever trick of installing retractable footrests continues to work on this new generation. As for the grab handle, it's virtually invisible.

Apart from the styling, here transcended, the V4 borrows little from the Diavel twin. Except for the electronics. It all starts with the unconditional 4 riding modes: the usual Sport, Touring and Urban, plus the new Wet, which is softer than the others. Riding aids then include 3 power levels, traction control and ABS, both angle-sensitive, wheelie control, cruise control, Launch Control, Shifter Up&Down and cruise control.
This Diavel gets a new 5-inch screen, with smartphone connectivity, call, music and text management, simplified navigation system, Ducati app and a host of other functions.

By opting for the V4, the Diavel doesn't offer the meteoric rise in power that might be expected. No doubt Ducati is keeping a bit of leeway. A few more horses, a different temperament, but still a hell of a lot of horsepower. No other muscle-cruiser comes close. In terms of pricing, however, this Diavel V4 has caught the fever.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos