Ducati 1198 Diavel 1200 (2017-2018): The Muscle Cruiser That Defies Convention

Introduction

The Ducati Diavel 1200 isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a statement. Part cruiser, part naked bike, and all Italian aggression, the 2017-2018 generation of the Diavel 1200 (codenamed 1198) challenges categorization. With its Testastretta 11° V-twin engine, brawny aesthetics, and tech-laden chassis, this machine blurs lines between power-centric cruisers and precision-focused sport bikes. After spending days wrestling its torque-heavy character on twisty roads and open highways, one thing becomes clear: the Diavel doesn’t play by the rules. Let’s dissect why this remains one of Ducati’s most compelling contradictions.

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Design & Aesthetics: Brutish Elegance

The Diavel’s design language screams “muscle.” The 2235 mm (88-inch) length and 240-section rear tire dominate its profile, while the tubular steel trellis frame adds a mechanical rawness. Ducati offered two primary variants during this era: the base Diavel 1200 and the lighter Diavel Carbon (205 kg dry weight vs. 210 kg), which swaps standard alloys for Marchesini forged wheels and adds carbon fiber accents.

Color options like Dark Stealth (matte black) and Asphalt Grey/Carbon amplify its sinister vibe. The LED headlight cluster—resembling a predator’s squint—and the dual underseat exhausts (on non-Carbon models) reinforce its rebellious identity. Yet, details like the machined aluminum single-sided swingarm and LCD instrument panel hint at Ducati’s sportbike DNA.

Despite its 770 mm (30.3-inch) seat height, the Diavel feels imposing. The 860 mm (33.9-inch) width and 1192 mm (46.9-inch) height create a cockpit that envelops the rider, blending cruiser posture with sportbike control.

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Performance: A V-Twin Volcano

At the heart of the Diavel 1200 lies the 1198.4 cc Testastretta 11° V-twin, a liquid-cooled beast tuned for low-end grunt. Output varies slightly between model years:
- 2017 models: 162 HP @ 9,250 RPM and 130 Nm (96.3 lb-ft) @ 8,000 RPM
- 2018 models: 152 HP @ 9,000 RPM and 123 Nm (90.7 lb-ft) @ 8,000 RPM

Thumb the starter, and the engine erupts with a bass-heavy growl. Ducati’s ride-by-wire throttle ensures crisp response, though the torque curve feels almost diesel-like—urgent from 3,000 RPM onward. Acceleration is brutal: 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) disappears in under 3 seconds, aided by the slipper clutch preventing rear-wheel chatter during aggressive downshifts.

The 6-speed gearbox ratios favor highway cruising, with sixth gear turning a relaxed 3,500 RPM at 120 km/h (75 mph). Fuel economy hovers around 6.5 L/100 km (36 mpg), giving the 17-liter (4.5-gallon) tank a theoretical 260 km (160-mile) range—though spirited riding halves that.

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Handling & Comfort: The Jekyll-and-Hyde Act

Don’t let the 240/45-ZR17 rear tire fool you—the Diavel corners with shocking agility. The 28° rake and 130 mm (5.1-inch) trail strike a balance between stability and flickability. Marzocchi 50mm USD forks (DLC-coated on Carbon models) and a Sachs monoshock (both fully adjustable) handle suspension duties. Dial in 10 clicks of rebound damping, and the Diavel carves twisties like a hyper-naked, its 1590 mm (62.6-inch) wheelbase feeling shorter than specs suggest.

Yet, this isn’t a sportbike. The wide bars and 265 mm (10.4-inch) brake discs (dual front, single rear) with Brembo M4 calipers offer superb leverage and stopping power, but the 239 kg (527 lb) wet weight announces itself during U-turns. The seat, while plush, grows firm after two hours. Still, the riding position—feet slightly forward, spine upright—works for both city commutes and weekend blasts.

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Competition: Where the Diavel Stands

The Diavel’s niche—power cruisers—is sparsely populated but fiercely contested:

1. Yamaha VMAX (2017):
2. 1,679 cc V4 / 200 HP / 166 Nm (122 lb-ft)
3. Heavier at 310 kg (683 lb) / Less agile / No ABS

4. Verdict: A dragstrip king but less versatile.

5. Triumph Rocket 3 (2018):

6. 2,294 cc inline-triple / 148 HP / 221 Nm (163 lb-ft)
7. 291 kg (641 lb) / Softer suspension / Retro styling

8. Verdict: Torque monster, but lacks Ducati’s edge.

9. Harley-Davidson V-Rod Muscle:

10. 1,250 cc Revolution V-twin / 125 HP / 115 Nm (85 lb-ft)
11. 304 kg (670 lb) / Outdated tech / Lower power
12. Verdict: Classic cruiser vibe, but outgunned.

The Diavel’s blend of Euro 4 compliance, LED lighting, and adjustable suspension gives it a tech advantage. It’s the only bike here that’s equally at home on a racetrack or a coastal highway.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Beast Alive

Owning a Diavel 1200 means embracing Ducati’s service rhythms:
- Desmodromic Valve Service: Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles). Labor-intensive due to the shim-under-bucket design. Budget for 4–6 hours of shop time.
- Oil Changes: SAE 15W-50 every 9,000 km (5,600 miles). The K&N KN-153 filter is a popular aftermarket choice.
- Chain Maintenance: The 525-size chain with 15/43 sprockets needs regular cleaning and tension checks. Upgrade to an X-ring chain for longevity.
- Brake Fluid: DOT 4 flush every two years. The Brembo system is robust but sensitive to moisture.
- Coolant: 3 liters (0.79 gallons) of ethylene glycol mix. Replace every 48,000 km (30,000 miles).

Common upgrades via MOTOPARTS.store:
- Aftermarket Exhausts: The stock Euro 4 system mutes the L-twin’s roar. Slip-on kits shed weight and decibels.
- Performance Air Filters: Pair with a ECU remap to unlock 5–7% more torque.
- Adjustable Levers: Improve ergonomics for smaller hands.

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Conclusion: Who Is It For?

The Ducati Diavel 1200 isn’t for purists. It’s for riders who want a cruiser’s attitude with sportbike reflexes, wrapped in a package that draws crowds at every stoplight. The 2017-2018 models refine the formula with Euro 4 compliance and sharper electronics, though the slight power dip in 2018 is noticeable.

If you crave exclusivity, opt for the Carbon variant—its forged wheels and premium finishes justify the premium. For everyone else, the base Diavel delivers 90% of the experience. Either way, expect a motorcycle that’s as thrilling to ride as it is to modify.

Ready to personalize your Diavel? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of performance upgrades, maintenance kits, and Ducati-specific accessories to make this Italian icon truly yours.

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Specifications sheet

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