Ducati previewed their Project 1309 at the World Ducati Week in Misano. Project 1309 is essentially an all-new, Diavel 1260 S which will be powered by a 1262cc, Testasretta DVT V-twin motor from the XDiavel and the Multistrada 1260. The engine will be re-tuned and is rumored to make in excess of 150bhp in the Diavel 1260 S.
The 1262cc V-Twin engine uses variable valve timing and is expected to deliver a strong top and bottom-end as in the XDiavel. The brand new frame uses the motor as an active structural element (stressed member). The 2019 Diavel will feature fully-adjustable Öhlins suspension. Braking duties will be carried out by Panigale-spec Brembo monoblock calipers. Ducati says that the Diavel 1260 S will be more nimble thanks to a reduced steering rake, which is 27 degrees now compared to the 28 degree rake on the Diavel and the 30 degree rake on the XDiavel. The wheelbase has also been lengthened by almost 20mm (1600mm) compared to the previous gen Diavel’s 1580mm wheelbase.
“The whole idea is to move the bike away from the values of the XDiavel and to make the machine sportier,” says Eugenio Gherardi, Ducati’s Project Manager.
What makes this bike look even more menacing is the huge eight-inch rim and the massive 240-section rear tyre. Ducati’s super-cruiser boasts a huge list of rider aids such as a six-axis IMU, traction control, launch control, anti-wheelie and cornering ABS. The tech does not stop there, it has a bluetooth connectivity feature for its cluster which can manage phone calls and music. The advanced, cutting edge electronics makes this Ducati’s most advanced super cruiser.
Apart from the S variant, a standard variant with Marzocchi suspension will also be introduced. The bike is expected to be unveiled at the EICMA in Italy this November. All this kit, will be priced at approximately £16,000 for the base model and £18,000 for the ‘S’ model