New Era Of Ducati Foot-Forward Cruisers

By Arison Knapp - February 4, 2016

Let’s hear how Team Bloomberg felt about their time on Ducati’s XDiavel representing the first of a new era of Italian foot-forward Harley-targeted cruisers.

Before Volkswagen’s Ducati acquisition the world caught wind of major growth. Since then it’s been full throttle, releasing fresh models under new ownership. They have strengthened their lineup and brand image. It’s evident the evolution of Ducati’s diversification, internationally sales growth is reaching out to reach out to first-timer Ducati-owners. Bloomberg’s reporter Miller does solid research showing Ducati’s smart choice of their XDiavel portfolio expansion. He presents data that H-D’s U.S. sales last year touched 128,000 units compared to Ducati’s mere 12,000. XDiavel is a direct missile targeted right at that demographic; coming in hot.

Right from the go Miller enjoyed the look and handling of the gorgeous trellis frame on a cruiser construction. The sport bike electronics, uber lightweight and 40 degree lean angle are exciting features. Electronics unique to its class and mentionable are ABS Cornering stability program, Traction Control and the Launch Control. Electronic muscle gives an honest leg up against the comps. It’ll make any bike easier to operate at all speeds with better handling and less effort.

City drive sounded uneventful winding up the 152 HP 1262 CC L-twin engine to around 5,000 RPM to find decent power. All 95 lb-ft of torque spike up mid-range and I tend to agree with him that the HDs pulling hard in the low range does make a difference around town.

That is not the whole story of the machine, take it on the open road and see. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about how he took corners at double the speed than similarly priced bikes. Impressive reading about the bike’s stability, gripping systems and comfort level on the highway. Natural that the Ducati would have more high speed testing and composure at the limits for that is where Ducatis live on the racetrack.