Ducati hot-rods Diavel with 168PS V4

The introduction of the V4 Granturismo engine, derived from the Desmosedici Stradale seen in the Panigale V4, means that the Diavel’s performance has grown significantly for 2023, with 1,158cc offering 168PS (124kW). Ducati says the bike now enjoys a combination of linearity at low revs with torque throughout the entire throttle range.

The Italian giants claim that the Diavel V4 takes inspiration from muscle cars we know and love here at Goodwood combined with the sporty DNA of Ducati. A muscular design features ‘broad shoulders’ which taper back into a slim waistline and a classic V-shaped tip, while new air intakes have been added to show the improved power of the V4 Granturismo, the effects of which are now channelled through an impressive four-exit exhaust. This exhaust system has been developed with ‘sound quality’ in mind to amplify the ‘Twin Pulse’ firing order of the V4 Granturismo. Another noticeable design feature is the massive 240/45 rear tyre, fitted around an 8.0” x 17” rim with an exclusive Diavel design five-spoked wheel with machined surfaces. 

Built around an aluminium monocoque frame and single-sided swingarm the Diavel V4 has a kerb weight of just 223kg without fuel, a saving of over 13kg compared to the outgoing Diavel 1260 S. This is helped by the fact that the V4 Granturismo is 5kg lighter than the previous power unit, and 8kg of vehicle savings owing to the aluminium chassis.

The handlebar now sits 20mm closer to the low riding position – just 790mm from the ground – which Ducati says not only provides a feeling of control and self-confidence, but also defines the overall visual cues of the Diavel. Folding footrests and retractable rear handles mean the lines of the single-seater configuration are untouched when not carrying a passenger.

New LED daytime running lights (DRLs) are formed in a ‘double C’ layout, with dynamic direction indicators integrated into the handlebar, hidden in front of the brake and clutch controls to provide a clearer front view. Meanwhile, the rear light cluster is positioned under the tail in the recognisable Diavel style.

An updated electronic package for the Diavel V4 comes from a 6-axis inertial platform (6D IMU – Inertial Measurement Unit), which can detect the roll, yaw and pitch angle of the motorcycle at any time. These are controlled through four riding modes equipped as standard – Sport, Touring, Urban and Wet. 

Sport mode offers the full 168PS in a much more direct manner, with minimal traction and wheelie control. Touring again features the full 168PS but at a softer delivery and with more electronic aids in place, including a higher level of ABS. Urban mode sees the power output drop to 115PS with yet more traction and wheelie control in place. Wet mode – a new mode that was also introduced on the Panigale and Streetfighter – again sees Low Power Mode active, with electronic aids set to their maximum level.