Ducati XDiavel S Review: The Power Cruiser That Makes No Sense (And That’s Why It Works)
The Ducati XDiavel S is one of the strangest, most misunderstood motorcycles Ducati has ever built—and that’s exactly what makes it special. In this ride and review, I break down why the XDiavel S exists, how it blends Italian sport-bike DNA with American power-cruiser ergonomics, and why it still turns more heads than anything else in my garage.
We cover real-world riding impressions, the 1262cc DVT engine, belt drive, electronics, lean angle, and where the XDiavel S fits in today’s motorcycle market. From Wisconsin backroads to city riding, this is an honest owner’s take on a bike that refuses to choose between comfort, performance, and character.
If you’ve ever wondered whether a cruiser can corner like a Ducati—or whether a Ducati can cruise—this one’s for you.
Timestamps
0:00 – Intro: The Ducati That Makes No Sense
0:54 – Why This XDiavel Came Back to Me
1:56 – Why the XDiavel Struggled to Sell
2:03 – First Ride & Why It’s an Enigma
2:37 – Riding North to the Wisconsin Border
3:05 – What Ducati Was Trying to Build
3:24 – Engine Breakdown: 1262cc DVT & Torque
3:51 – Belt Drive & Why It Matters
4:06 – Size, Weight, Wheelbase & Electronics
4:38 – Power Launch & Acceleration
4:54 – Why I Chose the XDiavel S Trim
5:04 – Why Ducati Built the XDiavel
5:39 – Diavel vs XDiavel: Key Differences
6:34 – Market Reaction & Identity Crisis
7:24 – Who This Bike Was Made For
8:09 – How It Sounds & Feels to Ride
8:24 – Low-RPM Performance & DVT Magic
9:02 – Ergonomics & Forward Controls
9:24 – Handling at Low Speed vs Open Road
9:57 – Braking & Maintenance Reality
10:11 – The Compromises You Should Know
11:11 – Where the XDiavel Fits in the Market
11:18 – Power Cruiser Comparisons (V-Rod, V-Max, Rocket)
11:56 – Who Should Buy This Bike
12:31 – Cruiser Riders vs Sport Riders
13:07 – Why This Bike Is Pure Mechanical Theater
13:38 – Final Thoughts: Comfort, Character & Speed
14:27 – Would I Recommend the XDiavel S?
14:32 – Closing Thoughts & Thanks for Watching
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