HERE'S Ducati's new XDiavel, the feet-forward belt-drive cruiser we knew was coming after seeing it in spy shots.
It's got a Testastretta 1262cc V-twin engine with Ducati's DVT variable valve timing, and makes its peak torque of 95lbft at 5,000rpm.
Ducati says it's definitely a full-on cruiser but promises more excitement than most, with a maximum lean angle of 41 degrees, only one degree less than the Diavel.
It's also got a launch control system called 'Ducati Power Launch' activated by a neat red button on handlebar.
It costs £15,795.
Here's what Ducati's press release says:
'Ducati enters the Cruiser domain and does so in its own inimitable way, presenting a true Cruiser with all the design, technology and performance one expects from a Ducati thoroughbred. Called the XDiavel, it brings together two worlds: the Cruiser world - low speeds, relaxed riding, long journeys and feet forward ergonomics - and the Ducati world, characterised by Italian style, refined engineering and unparalleled performance.
'The XDiavel ensures the “low speed excitement” typical of a Cruiser and the adrenaline rush of sports riding that Ducati has made its own. That's what the X in XDiavel stands for: the merging of two apparently separate, distant worlds on one bike, a superb combination where both are accomplished without compromise.
'5,000, 60, 40. Three numbers that sum up the XDiavel concept.
'5,000 as in the rpm at which the twin-cylinder engine achieves maximum torque (13.1 kgm). Extremely low revs for a Ducati engine but perfect for a Cruiser. Moreover, at 2,100 rpm the XDiavel power unit already ensures a torque of over 10 kgm, with an extremely flat curve all the way to the rev-limiter. Yet the engine remains a Ducati engine through and through, with a maximum power of 156 hp and thrilling performance across the rev range.
'To obtain that performance Ducati engineers pushed the Testastretta engine through its ultimate development phase to create the Ducati Testastretta DVT 1262. Increased engine displacement, together with the DVT (Desmodromic Variable Timing) system, results in delivery of full yet fluid torque at low revs, but ensures sports bike performance when the throttle is twisted wide open. Moreover, the design work on the Ducati Testastretta DVT 1262 has been meticulous: for example, relocation of the water pump inside the intra-cylinder V means the cooling system pipes are no longer visible on the left.
'60, as in the number of different ergonomic configurations for the rider. The XDiavel provides vast scope for personalisation thanks to 4 different footrest positions, 5 different seats and three different handlebars. It's also possible to fit a comfier passenger seat, even with a small backrest. All this, then, because comfortable riding means full “low speed excitement”.
'Lastly, 40, as in the maximum attainable lean angle. The XDiavel is a Ducati and as such ensures dynamic performance and the thrill of a sports bike, but only when you really want to push it to the limit. Frame, suspension, brakes and the chassis set-up have been designed to maximise sports-style riding fun, but without compromising on the comfort and easy handling that are essential when exploring the highways at a more relaxed pace.
'The XDiavel is the first Ducati to use belt-type final transmission. A must within the Cruiser world, this system has been developed for the XDiavel by Ducati engineers to ensure reliable, secure transmission of the power provided by the Ducati Testastretta DVT 1262. Belt drive offers the advantages of more silent running, cleanliness, reduced maintenance and the fluid throttle response one wants from a Cruiser.'
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