Reference Auto

2015 Ducati Diavel Carbon MD Ride Review - The human mind is not only simple to categorize everything, they let the "name" of the category defining experience. You do not have to learn Zen (although it helps) to understand this. Not every "horse" is the same, or any "dog". The discovery of even more varied human ... they are all along the spectrum, and the name of the category is sometimes useful, but equally ineffective and misleading.

Enter the 2015 Ducati Diavel Carbon we tested here in MD. This is the second generation of the first motorcycle was tested back in 2011. After the European launch, we even got a take Gabe on all-new Diavel. To summarize, the original Diavel fun, fast and convenient ... if slightly odd look.

Fast forward to 2015 models, and Ducati have made some changes to the Diavel. It still has a 1198cc superbike-derived Testastretta 11 ° DS v-twin engine, with a slight increase in torque and expansion of the powerband (peak horsepower remains at 162).

With more than 95 foot / pounds of torque at just 8,000 rpm, the Diavel Carbon makes the strength of almost every where you may ask for ... except way down low in the rpm range where the typical large twin gets thick and hesitant.

All these motors work together with the slipper clutch and traction control, and actions are controlled by your right wrist with ride-by-wire throttle. Ducati has been stretched to 18,000-mile intervals valves on Diavel.

For 2015, all models Diavel features LED lights and tail lights and redesigned, short muffler (which we think is better looking).

Most riders appreciate the convenience of the original Diavel, but for 2015, Ducati tried to make the bike more comfortable with the bar higher and form a new chair.

Although we have tested the Diavel on two previous occasions as mentioned above, this is the first time for our editor. Diavel Carbon looks threatening with interesting, unique shape and beautiful finish highlighted by a generous use of carbon fiber.

The sitting position is somewhat unique as well. Rider sitting relatively upright, but had to stretch a bit to reach the bar. It is a stretch for the bar high, not low bar as in motor sport. Sit still, the bike can seem a little uncomfortable, especially after riding many modern nakeds and bike adventures.

Ergonomics make more sense after you ride Diavel. Lack of wind protection encourages the rider's chest back to balance reach forward to the bar, and the range that feels comfortable and natural after a few miles in the saddle.

The sitting position also works for aggressive riding more than one might initially think. This is the Ducati after all, and like to go through the corners.

It was a giant rear tires (240 mm for God's sake!) Not helping things in the twisties, because it makes the bike wants to stand up mid-corner (and especially when trail braking). It reminds me a bit of Victory Hammer we tested last year (bikes that have 250 mm rear) in this regard, but Ducati is in a different league, completely, when carving apexes.

I got used to the rear tire, and it does not really hold back too much Diavel Carbon. Shortly thereafter, I bring good corner speed and lean angle is relatively large with a lot of confidence that is taken from the contact patch of the tire Pirelli Diablo Rosso II is very good. To be sure, there Panigale Diavel Carbon, but you still can have fun crossing the street canyon quickly and confidently.

Some habits are found in the same generation Ducati V-twins who attended the Diavel Carbon, as we find false neutral few tries to shift the bike with a light foot (as if we were on a Suzuki), and finding neutral at a stop light is almost impossible, at times. Mirrors vibrate at levels above 7,000 rpm, as well.

The suspension is fully adjustable, including large 50 mm inverted fork. Together with steel trellis frame, the Diavel Carbon chassis is rock solid, which only contributes to the rider confidence. The suspension is on the stiff side, and not the best at absorbing small road cut, but overall pretty good damping.

Diavel Carbon models we tested not only get the necessary carbon body work, but the beautiful forged Marchesini wheels and lightweight functional. To accommodate that large rear tires, the rear wheels is 8 "wide!

All Diavels supported by many technology and top shelf components. Brembo monobloc calipers grip 320 mm discs at the front, and the latest Bosch ABS standard.

Maid electronic riders including traction control (DTC) and the riding mode selected, including Urban (which limits the power to 100 hp and DTC set at levels that enable fast), Touring (full 162 hp and DTC at the secondary level) and Sport (full power and DTC least intrusive). We try every level, but tested 90% of the time in Sport mode. Two other modes may be useful for less experienced riders and / or low traction conditions, such as rain.

All Diavels also features hands-free ignition. In other words, you bring the key fob remote signal, and never enter button to start the bike. Split-level instrumentation including very light panel located in the gas tank (which is bright enough to be annoying at times when riding in the dark). The second panel is quite readable in daylight, but we rarely like digital tachometer, and this strengthens Diavel. All sorts of information available, including from a number of warning lights on top of the top panel.

2015 Ducati Diavel Carbon quite convenient for commuters, and even touring. Although limited by the 4.5-gallon gas tank smallish and relatively poor mileage (about 30 mpg, in our experience), Ducati offers a "tour package" which includes saddlebags, returning the rest of the kit and windshield.

Flexibility is evident in the lightweight platform. Although the seat height is relatively low, the Diavel Carbon has a great view of it, but weighs only 452 pounds (claimed dry). Diavel slotting into pre-defined categories does not do justice bike. Ducati said no cruiser, and we agree. This is not a motorcycle for everyone, but it has the look and attitude that appeals to many fans, while retaining the attributes just practical enough to justify the costs, which in the case of the carbon version is US MSRP of $ 20,995. Diavel base model starts at $ 17,995. Look at the Ducati website for more information.