Ducati has consistently pushed the boundaries of what motorcycles can be. Enter the Ducati Diavel 1260—a bike that defies conventional categorization. It’s not a traditional cruiser, nor a naked streetfighter, nor a sportbike. It’s something altogether different, and that’s what makes it so compelling.

At its core, the Diavel 1260 is a power cruiser, but that label doesn’t do it justice. It blends the low-slung muscular stance of a cruiser with the handling, performance, and electronics of a high-performance sportbike. For those who crave power, aesthetics, and everyday rideability in a single package, the Diavel 1260 delivers in spades.

Engine & Performance: A Beast Beneath

The heart of the Diavel 1260 is its 1262cc Ducati Testastretta DVT (Desmodromic Variable Timing) L-twin engine. This powerplant produces a staggering 157 horsepower at 9,500 rpm and 129 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm. That’s superbike territory in terms of output, packed into a bike that looks more like it belongs on a drag strip than a race track.

But it’s not just raw power. Thanks to the DVT system, the Diavel 1260 offers smooth, usable torque across the rev range. Whether you’re crawling through traffic, cruising on the highway, or blasting down a twisty road, the engine responds with authority and refinement.

A notable feature is the ride-by-wire throttle, which allows the Diavel to offer three riding modes—Sport, Touring, and Urban—each with different levels of power delivery, traction control, and ABS intervention. Ducati’s electronics suite, including cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, and optional quickshifter, makes it not just powerful, but safe and manageable, too.

Design: Muscle Meets Elegance

The Diavel’s design is instantly recognizable. It has a long, low silhouette with aggressive lines that exude attitude. The wide rear tire (a massive 240mm) is a standout feature and gives the bike a dragster-like presence. From the front LED headlight to the exposed trellis frame, every element is meticulously crafted.

Despite its bulk (at around 244 kg wet), the Diavel carries its weight low, making it surprisingly easy to maneuver, especially at low speeds. Ducati has paid special attention to ergonomics, with a comfortable seat height of 780 mm and a riding posture that balances relaxed cruising with active control.

There are two variants: the standard Diavel 1260 and the more premium 1260 S, which adds Öhlins suspension, Ducati Quick Shift (DQS), and upgraded Brembo M50 brakes. The S variant also features Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) compatibility and unique color schemes.

Ride & Handling: Sportbike Soul, Cruiser Comfort

One of the most surprising aspects of the Diavel 1260 is how well it handles. Thanks to the aluminum monocoque frame, fully adjustable suspension (especially on the 1260 S), and sporty geometry, the Diavel takes corners far better than a bike of its size has any right to.

The wide handlebars offer great leverage, and the bike feels planted in corners, with minimal effort required to turn in. The massive rear tire, which could have been a liability in terms of handling, actually contributes to the bike’s stable feel when leaned over.

For highway cruising, the Diavel is supremely capable. Its engine has enough grunt in every gear to make overtaking a breeze. Despite the lack of a full fairing, wind buffeting is minimal, and long rides are surprisingly comfortable.

Technology & Features

Ducati has loaded the Diavel 1260 with top-shelf tech. The 3.5-inch TFT display is crisp and easy to read, and the backlit switchgear adds a premium touch. Standard features include:

• Cornering ABS by Bosch
• Ducati Traction Control (DTC)
• Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC)
• Cruise control
• Power modes and customizable riding modes

The 1260 S also includes Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) for clutchless up and downshifts—a must-have for sporty riders—and Ducati Multimedia System (DMS), which allows smartphone integration.

Final Thoughts: A True Category-Bender

The Ducati Diavel 1260 is a bold statement in a segment that often plays it safe. It’s for riders who want performance without sacrificing style, and who demand the latest technology in a head-turning package. Whether you’re carving canyons, blasting down the highway, or just pulling up to a café, the Diavel commands attention.

It’s not a bike for everyone—but that’s the point. It doesn’t try to be all things to all people. It’s unapologetically muscular, brutally fast, and yet surprisingly refined. If you want something unique that delivers thrilling performance with Ducati pedigree, the Diavel 1260 is hard to beat.