Page 21 - August 2025 Edition

Dealership anecdotes suggest one rider switching

often triggers several friends to test ride

are tuned for big low-end torque at “I haven't had a Diavel very long … sound and feel may balk at
idle (~3,000 rpm), enabling it rides better, has more technology, Ducati's sport ethos.
effortless roll-on acceleration. is more comfortable … and is a hell
o f a l o t m o r e f u n . ”
· The XDiavel demands a 10. Market Implications & Brand
higher rev range to deliver “I switched from a Harley Fatboy to Strategy
power—but then provides a Diavel 1260… I know the feeling!!! Ducati is redefining the cruiser
exhilarating speed and ... I do appreciate the added safety category:
precision. The learning features, better power delivery…"
curve is real—but the reward Dealership anecdotes suggest one · Rebranding cruisers as
is performance beyond rider switching often triggers performance machines,
cruiser norms. several friends to test ride—fueling not just boulevard gliders.

Handling & Braking peer-based conversion cycles. · Attracting new riders who
may otherwise stick to
· The XDiavel handles far traditional bikes.
better—lighter chassis,
m o d e r n s u s p e n s i o n , · Demonstrating successful
Brembo brakes, ability to c r o s s o v e r
corner aggressively. marketing—rider-to-rider
conversion evident at
· Testers described braking dealerships and in owner
“with the ferocity of a race forums.
bike”—not typical for big
cruiser touring bikes. The XDiavel V4's new launch in
Ownership Experience 9. Strengths & Weaknesses — mid-2025—with premium pricing
How It Lands versus Harley ( ~ € 3 7 , 0 0 0 o r ~ $ 2 9 , 0 0 0
· Maintenance complexity U S D ) — r e fl e c t s D u c a t i ' s
and cost is higher for Strengths confidence in premium positioning
Ducati—valve checks, · High-end performance: a n d b r a n d a p p e a l a c r o s s
desmodromic service, superbike-level power, fast segments.
premium components, and launch, nimble dynamics.
s o f t w a r e - d e p e n d e n t
· Tech package: rider aids
calibration. But riders and connectivity far beyond
switching from Harley report typical cruisers.
a p p r e c i a t i n g t h e
performance upgrade · Design & Style: exotic
despite higher upkeep. Italian muscle aesthetics
over fat V-Twins.
Emotional & Visual Appeal
· Ducati clearly boasts of · Handling & braking:
Italian luxury, exotic charm, precise response, better for
and a bike built to turn twisty roads.
heads—not just idle down Weaknesses
Main Street.
· Less low-end torque:
· Reddit discussion shows demands higher revs for
riders switching from Harley fun—unlike Harley's idle
often cite better brakes, grunt.
suspension, handling, and
· F o r w a r d f o o t p e g
style as key
e r g o n o m i c s : l i m i t s
8. Rider Conversion — Why movement over bumps
H a r l e y O w n e r s A r e compared to mid-peg 11. Who Should Consider the
Switching setups. XDiavel?

Ducati reports that over 50% of · Cost of ownership: Ducati ✅ Ideal For:
XDiavel buyers are new to the maintenance and parts are
brand, with the largest segment more expensive. · Stylists seeking Italian
coming from Harley-Davidson. design with performance
· Cruiser purists may resist: edge.
On Reddit, former Harley riders fans of traditional V-Twin
describe: · Riders wanting cruiser
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LHR Motorcycle Magazine Issue 16 AUGUST 2025