Ducati have bulked up their cruiser bikes with a new XDiavel V4 model
Ducati's latest XDiavel model offers a thrilling upgrade. With two additional cylinders, increased power, and a slightly reduced weight, this revised cruiser bike is set to captivate riders.
From May, the new Ducati XDiavel V4 replaces the previous 1260 model. It uses a larger 1158cc Granturismo V4 engine instead of the 1262cc Testastretta DVT V-twin. Additionally, the new model has a standard chain drive rather than the previous belt-drive system.
The new model is the fifth motorcycle in Ducati's lineup to use this engine, alongside the Multistrada, Multistrada Rally, Multistrada Pikes Peak, and standard Diavel V4.
The new XDiavel V4 model from Ducati boasts an impressive power output, with peak power and torque reaching 166bhp and 93lb.ft respectively. This represents a 10bhp increase compared to the previous model. While the horsepower figure is slightly lower than Ducati's four-cylinder adventure bikes, the XDiavel V4's torque is more substantial and available at lower engine speeds than the Multistrada range.
The new four-cylinder engine design increases service intervals, requiring an oil change only once every 15,000km or two years. The costly valve clearance inspection is now needed less frequently, at 60,000km.
The outdated steel trellis frame has been replaced with a lightweight aluminium monocoque, which is mounted to the front cylinders and uses the engine as a structural component.
Additionally, the motorcycle features a redesigned subframe and a new aluminium swingarm, which retains a single-sided design despite the latest trends in Ducati's sports and naked bike models.
The motor and chassis changes have reduced the bike's weight by 6kg, bringing the kerb weight down to 229kg - nearly as light as the sportier non-X Diavel model. The geometry remains long and low, with a slightly longer 1620mm wheelbase. However, the caster angle has been reduced to 29 degrees to improve steering response.
The suspension has gained 25mm of travel at both ends. The front features a fully adjustable 50mm upside-down fork with 120mm of travel. Compression and preload adjustments are on the left fork leg, while the right leg handles rebound damping. The rear shock, now with a separate reservoir, provides 145mm of movement.
The 2025 XDiavel V4 features powerful braking capabilities, with top-tier Brembo Stylema calipers clamping onto dual 330mm front discs and a 265mm rear disc. The rear tyre remains an imposing 240/45x17, while the front tyre is a more conservative 120/70x17. The wheels have been redesigned, moving from 10-spoke to 5-spoke star-shaped rims, reportedly inspired by American muscle cars.
Ducati have equipped the new XDiavel V4 with advanced technology, including a 6.9-inch TFT dash with smartphone connectivity and optional turn-by-turn navigation. The motorcycle also features an array of rider aids such as cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, launch control, and cruise control, all powered by a six-axis IMU.
Additionally, the XDiavel V4 offers four distinct ride modes that adjust power delivery, throttle response, and electronic intervention. The motorcycle also comes standard with Ducati's up-and-down quickshifter and extended rear cylinder deactivation.
In terms of ergonomics, the handlebars are now positioned lower and closer to the rider, while the adjustable footpegs allow for a more rearward placement for sportier riding.
The passenger seat has been widened and made 25mm thicker. Additionally, a rear grab handle is now standard.
The exhaust has been redesigned, with a new 4-into-2-into-1 configuration that exits under the bike, replacing the previous twin pipe setup. The bodywork has also been revised, including a new 20-litre fuel tank and LED headlight.
