2019 DUCATI DIAVEL 1260 S
R I D E R E V I E W
P102
speed and going slowly, as the well dialed-in
suspension shrugs off any bumps. This un-
likely combination of polar opposites is what
makes this still such an enticing motorcycle
to ride, made even better by the new model's
improvements to the power delivery.
The devil's detail
As on previous versions of this uber-distinc-
tive model, the devil is in the detail on the
Diavel, and not only in terms of the literally ex-
cellent performance package it delivers but
also the premium fit and finish of the whole
bike, including its numerous design touches
which prospective owners will relish. Such as
the two-level dashboard with a TFT screen
with different display styles depending on
the riding mode selected, mounted below
the handlebar clamp with a separate warn-
ing light module above it. Like the dedi-
cated switchgear with red-backlit keys.
Or the front and rear full-LED units on the
S version with the headlight automatically
shifting from its daytime configuration to
the night-time one via a dashboard-mount-
ed sensor. The upside-down horseshoe
shape for the DRL running light, making
the Diavel instantly recognizable even
in broad daylight, is another feature of
note. As is the clever fold-out passenger
footrests and retractable grab handle aka
'wing' behind the seat. Then there's Brem-
bo's integral brake and clutch master-
cylinders custom-designed for the Diavel
complete with milled reservoir tops; the
weapon-like trigger-catch that slides down
to cover the starter button when activat-
ing the kill-switch; the keyless electronic
Smooth at
low revs,
sporty at high
revs. Ducati
has struck a
nice mix with
the 1260 S.
