New Ducati Diavel revealed

Claudio Domenicali (CEO of Ducati Motor Holding) personally unveiled the new model during the evening, providing a preview of the latest machine to join the Ducati range this year.

The presentation of the new Diavel now successfully achieves Ducati's industrial development plan announced last year, which had promised one completely new model (the Monster 1200) and three 'family-extension' models: the 899 Panigale, exclusive 1199 "Superleggera" and now the new Diavel.

Split across two variants - standard and lightweight 'Carbon' - as per previous versions, the new Diavel features the latest version of the Testastretta 11-degree Dual Spark 1199cc L-twin engine, the same liquid-cooled unit that's in the new Monster 1200. There's also a new exhaust system and full-LED headlight.

The new headlight is larger and reshaped, part of a mild restyle of things like the seat and side plastics, as well as larger, chunkier silencers for the new exhaust system. Styling is still distinctively 'Diavel', though, maintaining the distinctive mass-forward look synonymous with the model.

Mechanically, the standard Diavel and Diavel Carbon are identical, but the latter features lightweight forged Marchesini wheels, and carbon fibre tank panels, solo seat cover and front mudguard. Combined, these features result a 5kg weight saving compared to the standard Diavel - 234kg vs 239kg (wet).

Maximum power (for both versions) is claimed at 119kW (162hp) @ 9250rpm, with a torque figure of 130.5Nm @ 8000rpm. An hydraulic slipper-style clutch reduces wheel hop under engine braking, while also ensuring better energy transmission under acceleration. The new lightweight exhaust system features two lambda probes and twin aluminium mufflers.

'Dark Stealth' livery, featuring a black trellis frame and black wheels, is the standard Diavel finish. The Diavel Carbon offers the choice of either a red or white frame, with complementary Ducati Red or Star White detailing over the Matte Carbon, with the Marchesini rims finished in black with exposed aluminium sections. The specially-engineered 240 section rear tyre is combined with advanced chassis technology to serve up what Ducati claim are "mind-blowing handling and lean angles".

Using their "Performance Redefined" philosophy, Ducati says the new Diavel provides a smoother, safer and more rider-friendly experience. The electronics include Ducati Traction Control (DTC), and multiple Ducati Riding Modes, which are now viewable via full LED instrumentation. Handlebars sit on new bar risers for the 2015-spec model.

Both the front and rear disc brakes feature ABS, with 4-piston Brembo calipers on the twin front discs. At the rear, a specially-engineered 240 section Pirelli rear tyre is combined with advanced chassis technology to serve up what Ducati claim as "mind-blowing handling and lean angles".

Delivery of the new Diavel starts from April. Australian-delivered units are expected in late May/early June.