Ducati XDiavel V4 2025 Italian Power Cruiser with Punch

The next evolution of the Ducati Sport Cruiser has arrived. This model blends the laid-back seating position and robust design of a classic cruiser with the performance and technology of a sportbike. The most significant change lies in the engine: replacing the previous V2 powerplant is the 1,158cc V4 Granturismo engine, known from the Diavel V4, delivering more power, smoother running, and extended maintenance intervals.

Beyond the engine, the chassis has been thoroughly revamped. A new aluminum monocoque frame, an upgraded suspension with greater travel, and a revised seating position provide even more comfort and control. The XDiavel V4 also features Ducati's signature comprehensive electronics package with numerous rider assistance systems to make the bike's power manageable.

The design takes cues from its predecessor but gains a more powerful presence with a distinctive exhaust system featuring four tailpipes. The single-sided aluminum swingarm and the wide 240mm rear tire emphasize the muscular look, while new color schemes in Burning Red and Black Lava give the bike a fresh appearance.

Thus, the XDiavel remains a bike for those who don't want to choose between cruiser comfort and sporty dynamics.

The Ducati XDiavel V4 boasts a low, stretched silhouette with a muscular appearance, embodying a supercar on two wheels. Ducati's designers have further sharpened the already striking look of the XDiavel by refining the tank shape and tail lines. The 20-liter steel tank is not only larger than many other cruisers but also visually more dominant, giving the machine a commanding presence. The newly designed LED headlight with daytime running light and the rear light, also composed of an LED strip with dual brightness for position and brake light, stand out prominently.

The elegantly integrated front indicators further showcase the designers' creative freedom. However, the solution for the passenger footrests is not as aesthetically pleasing as on the Diavel sibling, as they are conventionally mounted on the exhaust bracket. Those wishing to ride two-up will need to install the provided passenger grab handle, which is executed more elegantly on the Diavel.

The seating position has been improved compared to the previous version. The seat is positioned very low at 770 mm, allowing even shorter riders to reach the ground comfortably. The seat itself is now 58 mm thicker than its predecessor, making longer rides more comfortable. Additionally, the ergonomics for the pillion have been enhanced: the rear seat is now 30% wider, 50% longer, and 25 mm thicker, with a standard passenger grab handle increasing comfort for two-up riding.

Footpeg Positioning: The XDiavel V4 stays true to its cruiser roots, offering a relaxed riding posture with forward-set footpegs. Riders preferring a sportier stance can relocate the pegs further back using an accessory kit.

The XDiavel V4 is equipped with advanced electronics based on a 6-axis IMU. The assistance systems include:

• ABS Cornering EVO
• Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO
• Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC)
• Ducati Power Launch (DPL)
• Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0 (from the new Panigale V4)
• Cruise Control

Four riding modes adapt the bike's behavior:

• Sport – direct throttle response, controlled wheelies and rear wheel lift-off possible
• Touring – smoother throttle response
• Urban – power reduced to 115 HP, very smooth throttle response
• Wet – power reduced to 115 HP, optimized for poor riding conditions

Cockpit and Controls: The new 6.9-inch TFT display with an 8:3 format provides all relevant information in a clearly structured manner and is easily operated via illuminated handlebar controls. Thanks to Keyless-Go, the key can stay in your jacket pocket. The Ducati Link App allows you to connect your smartphone to the bike to control calls, messages, or music. An optional turn-by-turn navigation system is available.

The heart of the XDiavel V4 is the new 1,158cc V4 Granturismo engine, producing 168 horsepower at 10,750 rpm and 126 Nm at 7,500 rpm. This engine replaces the former 1,262cc Testastretta DVT-V2 unit and offers numerous advantages:

• Increased power (+8 HP compared to the V2)
• Improved smoothness due to the Twin-Pulse firing order
• Lighter construction
• Longer maintenance intervals: valve clearance check only required after 60,000 km

The cylinder deactivation reduces fuel consumption and overheating during slow rides or idling, a new feature for this model generation, particularly beneficial in urban traffic.

Acceleration and Torque

The Diavel V4 has already set high standards in this domain, and with the XDiavel's longer wheelbase, even more stability during acceleration is anticipated. Thanks to its linear torque curve and well-matched gearbox, the XDiavel V4, according to Ducati, can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in under three seconds using the standard launch control. Despite its power, the throttle response is expected to remain consistently controllable through modern electronics.

The XDiavel V4 is built on a new aluminum monocoque frame, providing improved weight distribution. The wheelbase measures 1,620 mm, with a steering head angle of 29° and a trail of 145 mm—impressive cruiser specs, while the chassis hardware befits a superbike.

The XDiavel V4 features a fully adjustable 50mm upside-down fork, allowing precise adaptation of the suspension to varying riding conditions. At the rear, a central shock absorber with a separate reservoir offers 145 mm of travel, enhancing damping on rough roads without compromising sporty stability.

Braking power is supplied by a high-performance Brembo system. Up front, two 330mm discs paired with Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers deliver consistent and powerful braking performance. At the rear, a 265mm disc with a two-piston caliper supports brake balance and contributes to safe deceleration.

The new XDiavel V4 replaces the XDiavel 1260 and introduces several notable improvements:

• New V4 engine instead of the V2, offering more power (+8 HP) and reduced maintenance
• Weight saving of 6 kg (229 kg vs. 235 kg dry)
• Increased suspension travel (+25 mm) for enhanced comfort
• Upgraded chassis and electronics package
• More cables required, unfortunately visibly routed
• Improved passenger ergonomics: the rear seat is now 30% wider, 50% longer, and 25 mm thicker
• Overall, more visually aligned with the Diavel than previous generations

With the new engine, the XDiavel V4 not only delivers more power but also a smoother, more linear throttle response. The extended maintenance intervals and reduced heat generation due to cylinder deactivation also make it more practical for everyday use. However, the extensive electronics are also apparent in the form of externally routed cables.

The Diavel V4 is more closely related to the naked bike category, while the XDiavel V4 consistently follows the cruiser concept. Both models share the V4 Granturismo engine with 168 HP and high-quality Brembo brakes and suspension components. However, differences are evident in their ergonomics:

The Diavel V4 features a 790 mm high seat position and offers a more compact geometry with a 1,593 mm wheelbase, whereas the XDiavel V4 provides a 770 mm seat height and extends to a longer 1,620 mm wheelbase for a stretched silhouette. The XDiavel's display has grown to 6.9 inches with an 8:3 aspect ratio, while the Diavel makes do with a 5-inch unit.

The XDiavel V4 is slightly heavier than the Diavel V4, which is ready to ride at 236 kg. The XDiavel's seating position, with its forward-set footpegs, is more geared towards a relaxed cruiser posture, while the Diavel V4, with its more central seating and wide handlebar, offers better everyday usability and more control at low speeds.

The Ducati XDiavel V4 competes in a niche segment where there aren't many direct competitors. One alternative is the Triumph Rocket 3 GT, a true torque monster with its 2.5-liter three-cylinder engine and 167 HP, though its heavy weight and more traditional cruiser geometry make it less sporty. Another comparable concept is the Harley-Davidson Sportster S, featuring a liquid-cooled V-Twin, 122 HP, and a similar low-rider design, but offering less performance and simpler electronics at a significantly lower price.

Speaking of budget options: the Yamaha VMAX 1700 could be a choice if one can find a used model, as it offers similar performance with its 1,679cc V4 engine. Currently, there is one model listed on the Austrian marketplace, a 2009 model with 11,000 km for 14,000 Euros.

In the premium segment, the BMW R 18 Roctane might be an option for cruiser enthusiasts, although BMW uses a 1.8-liter boxer engine with significantly less peak power but high torque.

The XDiavel V4 will be available in Austria at a price of 37,495 Euros. Naturally, this price can be driven up with numerous extras, such as heated grips or color-matched side bags. In Germany, without the burden of the NoVA tax, it is expected to be significantly cheaper, although the final price is not yet known, and it's unlikely to be a bargain here either. The sporty cruiser's market launch is anticipated for May 2025.