There are two other Ducati models that are priced very similarly to the Diavel Diesel – one is the xDiavel S, which is the cruiser with all the bells and whistles, while the other is the Multistrada Pikes Peak edition, which is a homage to one of the great hillclimb races. The Multistrada is a tarmac-biased adventure tourer.
The Diavel Diesel is a jack-of-all-trades machine, but of the cruiser variety. It is equally happy cruising boulevards, and attacking the twisties. It does this with a cruiser format as a base, but with aggressive footpeg positioning. At its heart, it has a 1200cc engine that puts out nearly 160bhp and a smidge over 150Nm. This is fed to the rear wheel via a chain drive, just like the Multistrada. The Multistrada is also very similar in the driveline department with a 1200cc engine, but its 158bhp and 136Nm are reached at different points in the rev range compared to the Diavel. The xDiavel has a slightly larger 1262cc engine that generates 154bhp and 129Nm, and it feeds the rear wheel via a belt, in true cruiser fashion. All three sport six-speed gearboxes and a host of electronics to keep things rubber side down. On the list are multi-level traction control, ABS and customisable riding modes. The Multistrada offers a unique ‘Enduro’ mode in which the ABS is switched off only at the rear wheel, to allow more freedom and control on dirt.
The riding position for all three fits the format – but none are truly aggressive. The Diavel Diesel puts you upright in the saddle but tucks your feet under you for a stance that is slightly aggressive, while the xDiavel puts your feet forward, like a true cruiser would. The Multistrada offers a high perch, and one can stand and ride it easily.
If you’re planning to carry a pillion, the Multistrada’s long seat will work best – both the other bikes have tiny pillion seats that seem like your pillion will be left behind at the first sign of aggressive acceleration. Both the Diavel Diesel and the xDiavel look like works of art; the Multistrada is more function than form, which is why it looks purposeful but not pretty. Then again, in the places you can take it to, there will be hardly any heads to turn!
The Diavel Diesel will set you back by Rs 20.3 lakhs, ex Delhi, the xDiavel S by Rs 19.3 lakhs, ex Delhi and the Multistrada 1200 Pikes Peak by Rs 20.8 lakhs, ex Delhi.
