It's gotta go! Ducati XDiavel Review - My final ride

[@adubs22]

I just purchased an xDiavel S coming from a Suzuki M109R. The foot forward controls was not an issue for me because the M109R has very close control locations. I agree that this is not a touring bike and most of my destinations are less than 1 hour away. Never had an issue with comfort. Maybe because I'm only averaging 2 hours a day. With that said ... Love everything about the ride. Quick, fast, lighter, easier to handle, looks, sound, tech, etc.

[@LambChopRides]

Ducati ask the bike is returned with 1/2 tank of fuel... Bet they loved you Mr Reserve! I need to try one to compare to the Rocket..

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

I tried one to compare it with my Peugeot 106 diesel. It blew my car out the water...

[@loddude5706]

Bring a can! : )

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oops - I didn't know that John, no one ever mentioned it....

[@bobklee2397]

Bit surprised you didn’t put at least half a tank in, used the bike for four weeks and returned it with fumes? Seems a bit rude

[@colindeans5972]

Nothing wrong with an honest opinion TMF. I think the grey paint looks naff.

[@rayg9069]

Short wheel base sports bikes and even touring bikes are ridden with finesse, gentle inputs give the desired handling responses, long wheel base cruisers, not so much. It's a bit like the differences between a sailing skiff and an oil tanker.

[@Banditmanuk]

Looks wise I would pick the new Rocket 3 over the Ducati. Be interested in what you think of the Triumph as you now have one.

[@TheTripleDubya]

Yes, I too like the R3, loved the Diavel and would choose it over the XDiavel, even with chain drive but then I rode the R3 and it was really goooood. Sure the Ducati has some cool cache and great looks but the new Triumph does too. On top of that the R3 is shaft driven and does not suffer from very noticeable engine vibrations! . . . and service cost shock too I'd imagine. Will be interesting to see what others think about the two bikes when compared.

[@TheTripleDubya]

Loved the Diavel for the ride comfort plus go, so I thought the xDiavel would be awesome, feet forward which I like and belt drive for less noise and maintenance, would have to be awesome right ? No, the seat is awful the suspension travel seems shorter and in general it felt rougher. So what to do??? New R3 with shaft drive !!!! Yes please.

[@bradleyalexander5821]

Honesty is an admirable quality for bike reviews. Let’s face it, just opinions anyway.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Exactly - and mine is no more valid than anyone else's!

[@robertwbeams9929]

'Wot is e on' was very funny Andrew. You really don't have to say to we kids 'in my opinion'. You are respected for your honesty, and that you have no Manufacturer's / Dealers to keep sweet. The strange thing is that I reckon there will still be one or two who think this bike is cool and want one. Credit to Ducati for the loan - but they will know that you are besotted by another of their models!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I didn’t say this bike isn’t cool! I love the way it looks but for me it’s not a practical option to own....

[@ticthedog9413]

👍Good to see a honest review, Ducati Uk might not think the same. The ride into Aylesbury was a trip down memory lane as many years ago I lived at the bottom of Wendover Rd by the police station. With all the house building I should imagine Aylesbury, Weston Turville and Stoke Mandeville have all merged into one.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes pretty much have....thanks for watching!

[@matthewabbott7221]

Just wondering what happened to the off road GS video? Has it been removed?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes sorry about that - some of the comments got a bit too tasty......

[@ClipperUK2008]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I thought it was a very good video - I am inexperienced offroad (in fact no experience) so it was useful for me to see an "average joe" tackle offroading. Watching experts tackle offroad tells me nothing when my own experience is so low, I need ot learn from the next step up from me preferably. I learnt similarly from your earlier CMT tour videos which encouraged me to give it a go. Such a shame that people have to wheel out the "tasty" comments just because the youtuber isnt some offroad riding god!

[@OCCUPIEDNATION]

6:24 Doesn't look like you're counter steering enough Andy. Could that be the problem?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Could be!

[@paulcosgrove6160]

The long (too long) wheel base negates most input when they run wide, we tried everything on ours but could not make them steer.

[@OCCUPIEDNATION]

@@paulcosgrove6160 Funny though I've owned and ridden long-wheelbase bikes in the past including a BMW flying brick and a Rocket 3 - neither of which ran wide, for me at least. The Beemer did prefer long sweepers however and would go into the right bend with a 'flick of the knee'. One secret, if there is one is not being afraid to lean them over. Having said that I used a completely different riding style back then to what I do these days on my Street Triple, which I just have to 'think round a corner' and it goes. So you've got a point. Maybe I should go and test a Diavel just to find out for myself before I chip in. :-D

[@shoghunuk7428]

Another good summary and I was a bit curious as to what the Diavel would be like, so..... I tried the new 1260S, with the different foot pegs and I find that I disagree with you for the first time. You’re right in that it isn’t a sports bike but the one I had didn’t mind being thrown around on the twistys. I didn’t have any issues with the really fat rear tyre, or the riding position although, until I got used to it, I did go a bit wide on occasion. It’s not a bike I would use for touring, I have my trusty GS for that, but it would be a great ‘fun day’ bike. The Diavel is a lot of fun. It looks good, it sounds great and it handles well. It is an expensive bike but if money is no object, you could do a lot worse. Just my tuppence worth.

[@mrsuperduke6684]

Honest review TMF.....you cant like every bike you ride. Will be interesting to see how it compares to the rocket 3 you have at the mo👍. Not bikes for me though. Keep up the grest vids👍😉

[@aussiesam01]

I really enjoyed my short try out on an XDiavel a few years back but I chose to buy the Diavel and I'm very, very happy that I did. The Diavel is much more of a brilliant handling sport bike.

[@lafaietcastro]

Apart from handling better than the Xdiavel, do you think the Diavel is more comfortable than the X?

[@aussiesam01]

@@lafaietcastro the answer is very subjective. I don't like riding with my feet on forward mounted pegs, it puts off my riding style and hurts my back. Others may like the forward pegs of the X. I like to have my feet under me.

[@lafaietcastro]

@@aussiesam01 I get it. I'm not a huge fan of the feet forward either. Besides also hurting my back after a while, I don't feel "in control" of the bike. I'm really leaning towards the 1260

[@aussiesam01]

@@lafaietcastro Nice, hope you get one and are happy with your choice. Post a note here if you want to let us know how you find the new bike.

[@MrTrek164]

You've missed the point TMF ,you need to change your riding style a bit to get this bike turning .yes the riding position can load your spine up , easy fix is a air hawk or adjust the suspension .I rode the earlier version and it was a hoot .

[@K22MDL]

Andy - why didn't mention you can get the exact same XDiavel with standard pegs and sitting in "the normal motorcycle stance" ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I did in the previous videos I made on the bike (if not this one).....

[@K22MDL]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I know - I watched them! I have never been able to get used to riding "feet forward", just doesn't seem natural. If I ever do get a XDiavel ("S" obviously) it'll have to be the feet below not in front. Great video as always and Sam at Bahnstormer says hi.

[@jwturner1969]

Honest review for sure ...if not a little wingy... And a small highlight is the old fuel guage point...and your distraction with them.. Seems the Ducati is confused.... reserve light on a a quarter showing on the gauge...I have noticed bike fuel gauges hit and miss at being accurate. Maybe go old school with your fuel usage ...if u know a bike does 120 mile on a full tank ..u reset trip as u fill when you get close to half the mileage or 3 parts then easy to work out what you got left....

[@paulcosgrove6160]

100% agree. Apart from the other problems I advised we had when you first posted, one of my mates and I sold my Diavel and his XDiavel after trips to Germany and Spain. The front tyres square off rapidly which confirms the poor handling, they push wide regardless of attempts to wrestle them round tight bends, (and we are both big strong Northerners LOL!), and as you say on both models you sit in rather than on them so movement on the seat impossible. The vibrations are so bad both our number plates vibrated off despite using thread lock so we fitted tail tidies and steel nuts + bolts. Anything that can come loose will, just like Harleys. We replaced ours with a Yamaha 1700 V-Max (one of the last sadly) and a Custom Yamaha 1700 Warrior. They both are streets ahead in handling and comfort, even though the Warrior has feet forward controls. A to B the Max is quicker, the Warrior surprisingly not far off. Triumph is not an option we would choose. An honest accurate review as always.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Paul - glad we concur!

[@johngittins6244]

Looks great but must say I don’t think I’d get on with any cruiser style bike. Surprised Ducati make it, maybe for the US market. Good honest review 👍👍

[@michaelrussom9347]

Interested to know how much different the riding experience would be with the foot pegs towards the centre.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I’d like to know that too!

[@ajinkyakhanzode890]

Wow!!! One of the few bikes you didn't like. Would it be mean, if I said you'd like the riding position if you put on a few pounds?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Why would that help out of interest? ...and I've been fighting hard to lose a few pounds!

[@ajinkyakhanzode890]

@@TheMissendenFlyer A knees in obtuse angles position, as you put it, is favored by a, lets say, bulkier rider. Gaining weight won't necessarily help but you'd like the knees forward position more. PS : Keep fighting it's a worthy cause, also looking forward to the Thailand series.

[@TheACEIRA]

Thx for honest review Sir!

[@philbennett8896]

Great review - you know your true audience and so not afraid to upset the big manufacturers. But you express your views in such a nice way! As you say, this bike will be a big hit in California but trying to haul its bulk around British roads doesn't sound like much fun.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well it is fun (all bikes are fun aren’t they?) - just not for me sadly!

[@hudsonrilke]

That’s fair. Currently living in Canada with nothing but straight roads around my part, Harleys and cruisers are the norm. I go to work on the highway (too cold still but spring is in the air) on my kwaka versys and get blown all over the place hanging on for dear life in the strong winds. The guys on the heavy cruisers are planted and don’t have that worried look I have. Have to say though the triumph rocket just looks far better than this. Lookin* forward to seeing how you get on with it.

[@johnnikiforakis872]

All these people saying cruisers are uncomfortable and me sitting on my 2018 triumph speedmaster scratching my head... Handles pretty damn good too.. Maybe your dimensions need to kinda match the bike's or maybe its what you are used to? Not to mention that all our bodies and tolerances are different... i.e. I have a lower back problem. Leaning forward for more than a few minutes is a big no-no, so no sport or even aggressive standards for me. In contrast the relaxed upright position of the speedmaster with the slightly forward footpegs (at 6 feet tall I don't really feel like my feet are that much forward, its a small bike after all) is bliss for anything longer than a half hour ride. Different strokes and all that.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Now the Speedmaster I loved when I had one for a couple of weeks - think that was a 2018, loved it! Way better than the Bobber I thought...

[@johnnikiforakis872]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Definitely was the 2018! Let me thank you for that review btw mr TMF. It was one of a couple that helped me pull the trigger (Loved the bike at first sight, but it was a calculated risk to buy it this early in my biking career) and this bike is my pride and Joy. I owe you one sir. Cheers! P.S Funny thing, for many its the same bike as the Bobber with "some trivial changes". For me these changes make a huge difference both in looks and in feel/comfort and usability. Honestly, would probably not buy the bobber...

[@colinvincent6599]

Be interesting to see if any of the issues you found crossover to the rocket etc as a generic feeling you have with those type of bikes or is it Diavel specific

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Indeed - and yes they do!

[@ragerider6283]

Nice vid & I tend to agree.....not having ridden one I hasten to add! It's an awesome looking beast with awesome road presence but not something I'd ever consider buying.

[@derekm6236]

After a 650 Katana and an 858 Bonneville, I'm now on a V-Star1100 cruiser, which I am enjoying. It has to be said though, that cruiser handling is different. It took me over 1000 miles to really feel at home on it and although main road bends are smooth and effortless, roundabouts and road junctions do require some conscious thought. No doubt the rake and wide bars. The sports bikes simply went where you thought. As usual, an excellent and honest video. How about blagging rides on a touring Harley and Indian, to see what your thoughts are? Keep the videos coming!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Derek - ad yes Indian and Harley are very high on my wish list!

[@adrianrubi5012]

Is the riding position the same as on the Speedmaster?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Ish - not quite the same handlebar wise....

[@grahaminkpen5436]

Still love the looks of it, Italians do style and engines in cars and bikes very well. Passed my CBT this week, my bike journey begins, it wasn’t pretty and it was a mixture of being terrified and happy all in one go, but it was good enough. Looking forward to getting in some practice.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Congratulations and welcome to biking!

[@diemman70]

Italians, engines, Fiat? Nope.

[@grahaminkpen5436]

Well Chris, they invented the VVT engine, they invented the Common Rail diesel, I know the 500 had issues but it wasn’t the engine. Alfa, Ferrari, Lamborghini. All iconic engines.

[@sproutandkidneysoup2296]

I had a little chuckle when you said it was good for posing on. One lives near me and I only see it on warm sunny evenings going through the village in opposite directions every five minutes or so. Maybe he'd agree with you it's only good for short journeys in warm weather.

[@Dracati]

Good to hear ya & nice cool riding :) That XDiavel def is in its own category...Euro Cruiser I guess, RSMF 🤙🏍💨

[@THEAWESOMENESS40]

Hey man love the vids, especially bike news monthly. I was wondering when would you recommend to upgrade to a bigger bike? I am currently on a brutale 675, lovely bike but the down-low torque is horrid. I have been riding for about 3 years now and I am thinking about getting an rsv4 or a tuono. Good idea?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes - after three years you’ll be fine....enjoy!

[@roberthall1437]

TMF. A good honest assessment of this bike,and the colour GREY!!! Not a very safe colour for the UK. Got to be seen you know !!

[@Jaymv4s]

Looking forward to what you think of the rocket! Actually considering a second bike in the next year or so. I'm considering a Rocket among others.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Stay tuned Jay!

[@stephenlane8366]

Good review. I had a second generation Diavel a few years ago; it looked great (much better than the xDiavel in my opinion) and went well but I found the engine was very rattly and lumpy and at the end of the day, well a few months, I was bored with it for much the same reasons you mention. I now have a Triumph Bobber Black as a second bike and it is a really nice bike with a great engine, comfortable riding position and good handling but it is still the "one-trick pony" you describe and I could not live with it as my only bike, especially with the ridiculously small fuel tank. I guess that is true of most cruisers though as they are mainly a style statement - in my opinion!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes i think you've hit the nail on the head....

[@Normal_Wisdom]

Much respect for your honest opinion.

[@GerhardCombrink]

Thanks a stack for staying honest. Had a similar experience with a HD I had years ago, after 30 minutes in the saddle my rear end went numb and after a 1 hour club ride I cursed the bloody thing. Horrendous fuel economy and range too, but guess you don’t buy a HD for fuel economy. Traded my Transalp in on a base spec R1200gs today after owning it for only 6 months. The Transalp is a great bike if you’re below 5’8” and prefer something old school, harsh and unrefined. Personally I just felt like a horse on a flea. Compared to other similar bikes of the era it was in may opinion the best of the bunch, but it simply can’t compare to the newer bikes, especially those brakes which is indeed a rather important item. Anyway, now have a R1200gs adventure, r1200gs rallye and a R1200gs Trophy (base spec) and after either owning or extensively riding most other bikes I was even remotely interested in will stick with the big gs’ in future, no need to look elsewhere and waste my money.

[@frankstocker5475]

I think you will have a similar opinion about the Rocket if you get a long term loan. Moving that monster around the car park is going to be fun.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...as it happens I have the Rocket R in my garage at this very moment!! Stay tuned....

[@barbieandbellaadventuresby9134]

Please review the Diavel 1260s. Different seating and feet position. I would love to hear the comparison.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I'd love a go on one I must say....

[@gcrockford8191]

Must say I have not ridden one of these bike's. That aside I ride a cruiser with forward controls. I have tried riding a bike mid to rear pedals as I would call them, and I just can not get on with them. There is a saying "Once you have gone forward you can never go back" and that describes me. But great review anyway, cos what you don't like, I would! so that makes it worth while. Cheers!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes we can’t all like the same thing can we, I’m sure some will absolutely love this bike I certainly like the looks of it but it’s not for me from the riding position point of view. Shame because I really wanted to like it!

[@tracer1127]

Thanks for the honest review. I go to the NEC each year as well as local dealers and wonder how the hell you are supposed to ride some of these bikes as they are uncomfortable sitting still never mind ridding out for a few hours. It is without doubt an awesome looking machine especially in black.

[@iamtherealzombie]

I'd really like to hear your opinions of a modern "regular" Diavel compared to the X-Diavel (because you seemed to like the one you rode in California)... I loved the test ride I took on a 2015, but as I mentioned in comments before, I went with a Multistrada S based purely on practicality.

[@t4ketsuru]

hmm i never thought about forward controls like that, always thought it would be no different in comfort then center pegs just different location.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes me too, defo an issue for me when going over bumps though, jarred straight through my back...nasty with all our pot holes....

[@holmes1956O]

Randos the truth about your pegs is this you should be able stand up on your pegs with your hands held out in front of you. As in the pegs need to be directly below you so you can stand. Put pressure on them for turning and control of the bike. If not in this location you really dont have the ability to properly control your bike

[@johnDukemaster]

Powercruisers? Nah, not for me. Too much rollercoaster feeling. Not fun in the long run. But that's me! But when you're at cruisers, try the new Harley Softail standard. Looks good!

[@MargusMoto]

Nice honest review. Everything you find negative on the XDiavel sounds like something that is not true for the regular Diavel. Haven't ridden the X, but the regular one handled like a champ (having said that I have to admit I've never ridden a proper sport-bike, the closest being a naked bike).

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

es I'd like a go on the standard Diavel by way of a comparison I must say....

[@coekiemantrance]

TMF should i sell my 950S and buy the Diavel 1260 S ? Or should i keep my 950S?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Dunno - depends on your situation and what you use the bike for...do you want to swap?

[@coekiemantrance]

@@TheMissendenFlyer , i use my 950s for touring (dont do offroad), got it for 1 year, amazing bike it is. But i saw the Diavel 1260s and felt i love with it. Unfortunaly, can't lend the bike for a weekend, or even a day, at the local Ducati dealer, so i can't test drive it. You have tested both bikes and would know , as usual , your honest opinion as an expert.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...well in that case I'd stick with the 950 - the Diavel looks gorgeous but for touring is a non starter in my opinion, riding position gets uncomfortable quite quickly.....how can they not let you do a test ride....nuts!

[@alanottley]

Good to be honest in your reviews - that’s why people trust them and you. Well done, sir!

[@Bannister99]

I had the first standard Diavel, so the riding position was more normal with my feet underneath me. It still suffered from running wide on tight bends which I did become used to, but it needed a significant push of the bars to counter-steer it's way round. What I couldn't overcome was the jarring up my spine every time it hit a bump. I fitted an Ohlins rear shock which helped, but not enough for me to keep the bike. Great engine though and it drew a crowd.

[@mikemcgovern3372]

Shamone MoFo Took one out on test a while ago whilst my 899 was being serviced. Totally agree with you. Looked amazing and I could forgive/ride around most of its shortcomings, but the suspension! That was brutal.

[@boodog4023]

I'm in US and yet I don't think a cruiser is in the cards for me--I'm leaning toward a big sport tourer for 2nd bike

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes apologies for any generalisations, I appreciate not 100% of US riders only love Harleys!

[@XO43137]

How does art compare to the Diaval?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

??

[@Onetty1]

Being 5 ft 9 in myself, i couldn't agree more with the issue around the forward controls. It's really quite uncomfortable and tiring. I do like the bike itself and just bought a second hand one. Will be switching the controls from forward to mid controls. Hopefully that does enough in terms of comfort (and justifying the purchase :) )

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm sure it will make a huge difference....will be interested to hear what you make of it??

[@Onetty1]

@@TheMissendenFlyer got it done, you lose a bit of butt comfort (because the weight shifts), but the difference it makes for your back is huge. I'm watching out for the handlebar position (i have the stock ones), but need to put in a few more miles first.

[@jimmymac9388]

After a long lay off riding a bonnevile America cruiser I found out I was all over the place ie running wide on corners etc when I rode it.I think this was down to the fact my brain was tuned to the kawasaki zr7 I had been riding.I soon got used to riding the America again.

[@Fjdy1jd1]

The inability of bike mfgrs to grasp the purpose of fenders just drives me mad. In this case, they omit the back half of the front fender to allow everything off the front wheel to splatter the front of the engine. Then in back it's even worse: The front end of the fender is there in the form of a mini-hugger. The rear end of the fender is there to hold the registration plate. But everything in the middle is missing, enabling crap off the road to spray the rider in the back.

[@raymondmajer8748]

Fjdy1jd1, I agree absolutely. Style over function..........until you have to clean it!

[@graemearmstead9237]

Basic physics is all you need to know about cruisers.

[@mickthemaverick5998]

I think its all been said, still don't like the scaffolding, What happened to the GS off road vid that appeared and then disappeared before I got the chance to watch it? (Been on a 12 day road trip to Mallorca)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Had to take it down due comments getting too hot...

[@mickthemaverick5998]

@@TheMissendenFlyer That's a pity, I was looking forward to that!! Will you be editing and reposting it?

[@smithwrx5910]

Owned a Honda CBR, Suzuki katana, Harley Sportster, Aprilia Sr 50 and now a Ducati xdiavel. The Ducati had me 🌽 nering like never before. Feet forward is my only negative... Yet a nice change

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Have you given one a try?

[@paultaylor6766]

As you say cruisers aren't about comfort, they're about looking cool as F. That thing can drop knickers or boxers at 100 yards ...hahaha. Don't get me wrong I love my GS 1250 and its my bike of choice when out for distance, team riding etc, but if I want to feel free, cool and 100% liberated the XDiavel is the one I take out, and boy I feel 16 again and you can't get the smile of my face.. However, I'm glad I've been part of a momentous moment as a TMF fan and religious viewer.... I think I've just experienced the first bike review you've ever said you don't like.....I'm cracking a Calsberg Export on that back of that one!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You obviously didn’t see my Moto Guzzi review!

[@bebop2599]

Why not ride the mid peg version before giving your final verdict ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Wasn’t available to me but there’s no doubt it would suit me personally better....

[@debenhamdave4314]

Stunning looking bike, have ridden standard model, but totalling agree don't like the foot forward cruiser position, cheers TMF

[@sharpbends]

Sounds like it needs a set of running boards and a tweak with the geometry ;-)

[@thekingoftheworld9553]

Is there a reason for this video other than the algorithm? You haven't said anything that you haven't already in your past videos! I do love the videos TMF it's just when I get a notification that you've posted a new video it's just a bit disappointing.

[@baxbax8701]

Been riding for a bagillion years. I’ve owned 3 katanas, every gsxr model from f to WN, couple zxr’s and my last bike was a ZX14, which in my opinion handled like a pig. Just bought an xdiavel dark and am beside myself waiting for it to be delivered in couple months time. I have a pretty open mind when it comes to people’s opinions and yours is of course just as good as any rider’s ... but the one Thing that burns me up most about this vid is the f@#ing cars parked in the middle of the road!!!!

[@gdscheiwe01]

Love the looks of the xDiavel but I far prefer function over form. Great review, all the trolls that say you love everything can stick this in their pipes and puff. Your objectivity shall remain unbesmirched! Peace Sir!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You can’t please all the people all the tine can you! I try and be objective and honest but it is only my opinion and I’m no expert...thanks for watching as ever!

[@dougie1325]

Yes I would agree with your thoughts Andy. I loved the look when it first came out but not so much anymore. It won't be taking me away from a naked sports bike. Thanks for the review as always.

[@canturgan]

I sat on one and agree that the riding position is awkward. I'd still have one though.

[@simonm6499]

Sorry mate, I can't agree with a some of that. I predominantly rode superbikes for over 20 years, fancied something different so had an XDIAVEL for two years. Its not a superbike and ridiculous to think it will handle like one, however if you grab it by its balls and make it hustle it will. Appart from a lack of ground clearance (the pegs drag on the tarmac quite a bit) I regularly used the whole rear tyre with zero chicken strips. This is not a brag, just an example of how well it can be made to go. Once the rear is warm you really can take the piss exiting the corners with huge amounts or rubber to grip. I moved the pegs all the way back, (they have 3 position settings as standard) got a reised seat (£90) and swept back bars, (also £90) being 6.4 it sat me over the bike a lot more. So £180 & Job done, bike is ridiculously aggressive and looks cool as.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough - you are certainly entitled to your opinion, I can't disagree with that!

[@lord.onk99]

Honest view. I love that Speed Twin.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I love it even more now!

[@jimmybe64]

@@TheMissendenFlyer only for an hour. Seat is so thin and uncomfortable. Can ride my Harley Sports Glide all day, feet forward and all. You need right height bars so back doesn't ache if you have to lean over to reach bars. Will have to refoam and gel Speed Twin seat so it is not a half hour to work bike. I have done 15 400 kms on it now but seat is still terrible.

[@jamesdonoghue5907]

Rule of being a man; always return a borrowed vehicle with a full tank of fuel! Only exception being a quick test ride from a dealers. Good honest review - it wouldn't put me off if I were in that market...would just highlight some things to consider when test riding.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

sorry I failed on being a man....

[@brankojerbic6040]

Very nice looking bike but also very expensive. For a fraction of the price you can pick up a Bmw R1200C and that, some say, is a future classic so should appreciate in value too....but the looks definitely need time to grow on you...

[@tomthompson7400]

still looks like gloss primer.

[@Cliffanger101]

Having owned many cruisers including the Xdiavel, riding feet forwards changes completly how you ride and steer a bike - and you need to roll it round a corner rather than steer it round with your head as you would on a sports bike. It does take some getting used to ! The spine shattering rear suspension is well documented and can easily be softened by reducing the spring compression a couple of turns to soften it. Having said all that, i traded mine in for a new 1260 Diavel which is a totally different experience, and well worth a test ride, if you can get Ducati to loan you one ! cheers for the great honest review once again !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Mark - would love a go on the 1260!

[@richardstratford6013]

Perversely it’s quite refreshing to hear you say different things about a bike; as you say, you can’t love ‘em all! If you only pick bikes you like then your comments are always going to be similar. This wasn’t on my list anyway😎

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Indeed - this though is a bike I expected to love!

[@johnstonstewart9683]

It's like fashion, people will put up with discomfort if they think they look cool. The motorbike equivalent of ripped jeans or high heels possibly. A G string even, I have no personal knowledge of any of these items

[@Harnishchappy]

lol

[@dannyracer25]

Great review Tmf it looks fantastic not the paint though I can see what you mean .thanks from Danny

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Danny!

[@FranBunnyFFXII]

Calling this thing a cruiser is honestly really not apt. Power Cruiser and Cruiser are really 2 different animals. It's a bit like calling a Dodge Challenger a nice family car because it has 4 seats. The Bike is really made for ultra fast acceleration, and thats about it. A harely softail is a cruiser, it doesnt suffer from those problems you're having, and its a real cruiser and having forward feet like that is beneficial. But on the Diavel? Not really. Sure it can cruise but its really just not designed for it. That big engine is meant to scream out 0-60 in 2.4 seconds.

[@raymondmajer8748]

Not having ridden either bike and despite Triumph negatively in my opinion moving production to Thailand I would much prefer the Triumph Rocket 3 R. Just my opinion folks.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Stay tuned for my videos on the Rocket soon!

[@raymondmajer8748]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I'll look forward to it, thanks. Take care.

[@stevetaylor8698]

I would imagine one of the reasons you find the machine "a bit vibey" is that you don't seem to change gear much. Throughout the video you never got above 4th gear, despite the engine's massive torque. Why do you cruise along in third gear with a bike (and engine) like this? At 50mph I would be in 6th, unless I really wanted to motor along - which clearly you didn't.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

For me at those speeds 4th felt much better than 6th, which would have been very lumpy on this twin cylinder bike I suspect....I tend to hold on to lower gears for acceleration when required, just how I like to ride. Thanks for watching and for stopping by.

[@holmes1956O]

steve taylor I am pretty sure in 6 at 50 mph you woild experience shudder from lugging the engine. My m900 wont tolerate that kind of low rpm in high gear

[@hyperthunk]

This is why I'd consider a Diavel, but not an XDiavel, likewise the Triumph Rocket 3 looks great, but I'd want the R not the GT. Feet forwards is for armchairs, not motorcycles... :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Agreed 100% Stay tuned for my Rocket 3 R review on Thursday!

[@sirfaffalot9136]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I did, and it was great. I never miss a review mate!

[@karlosh9286]

I wonder if the cruiser position with legs stretched out is for bikers who can't bend their knees !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Maybe! Not going to do their backs any good though I suspect - especially with our pot holes!

[@DonutSurfingTheInternet]

Such a shame to hear your comments on the magnificent XDiavel. My opinion is the polar opposite and I feel like you have completely missed the point of the motorcycle. Ah well. Thanks for the video regardless.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Well we can’t all like the same things! It’s only my opinion and I’m no expert...please don’t hate me for it!

[@edwardmorgan2965]

I agree with the Missenden flyer and it's really superb to hear an honest review. It's a posers toy too tootle down the pub. And extol the virtues of its owners assumed pre-eminence. Look at me I'm a biker I've covered 200 miles this year. Ha

[@dermur68]

@@edwardmorgan2965 Think you're saying more about yourself than anything else there!

[@robertwbeams9929]

Oh dear Donut Dude, it must be that this is the only bike you have ever ridden, and thus not aware that there are so many better ones for less a price.

[@DonutSurfingTheInternet]

@@robertwbeams9929 No. It isn't. I've ridden plenty and I do not own an XDiavel, however I've had the privilege of knowing someone who has one.

[@domster200]

Feet forward without a back rest makes as much sense as removing a car's seat back.

[@CrusaderGeneral]

I just wonder how the dealers react after they sacrificed their bike and didn't get the feedback they were hoping for :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I borrowed this from the manufacturer - Ducati UK - they loan me bikes on the understanding I will give my honest opinions...and it is just that, one mans non-expert opinion.

[@CrusaderGeneral]

@@TheMissendenFlyer everyone who is decent appreciates an honest review from a decent person. Love from NY brotha

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

@@CrusaderGeneral Thank you CG - stay safe over there in wonderful New York!

[@srtspeedy4983]

Time to ride one that would suit you better, Diavel 1260. Your not a cruiser person clearly😁

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Maybe I’m not - would like a go on the 1260 though....

[@ian916fun]

I guess you have not ridden a Harley? - It's all part of the charm!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No I haven’t - but would love too! Sadly they don’t return my messages 🙁

[@vess6934]

@@TheMissendenFlyer You're not missing much.

[@ramimator]

TheMissendenFlyer I would really love see ur reviews about harleys if they reply 😊...anyway great and honest review

[@iamtherealzombie]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I guarantee your experience on a Harley would make you look back on the X-Diavel with fond regards...

[@stephenfleming7056]

@@TheMissendenFlyerMost Harley dealers you just show up and they offer you a choice of test ride.

[@palantir135]

I tried to sit on several cruisers at a motorbike show and I couldn’t find one that let me reach the handle bar and at the same time gave me a comfortable seating position. And feet forward makes you fold double. Cruisers are not for me. I like allroad bikes and (sports)tourers. I think Americans like feet forward because they ride their horses at the same way. Europeans ride horses with their legs below them as they do their bikes.

[@Hooner77]

Not all Americans. When I came back to riding motorcycles I did spend some time looking at Harley's but found there seating uncomfortable. I bought a used FZ6 with a mostly upright riding position. I have replaced it with V-Strom 650 a more straight up and tall riding position. The best motorcycle is the one that fits your riding style and fits your budget.

[@palantir135]

Hooner77 I had a 650 V-strom. Magnificent do it all bike.

[@TStyx]

Not just Europeans, most of the rest of the world including Japan ride feet down.

[@palantir135]

TStyx I only know about europeans

[@fonziebulldog5786]

Think i keep my Hayabusa. She still scare the hell out of me sometimes. 😀

[@grahamtricker4103]

Going wide on corners is due to that 240 back tyre...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Whats the technique for dealing with it Graham??

[@Fjdy1jd1]

@@TheMissendenFlyer When a bike is leaned, the contact patch moves from the center of the tire to the shoulder. The wider the tire, the further the contact patch moves laterally. So with everything else remaining the same, a wider tire will require more lean to put the bikes center-of-gravity in the same position relative to the contact patch.

[@paulcosgrove6160]

@@Fjdy1jd1 Wheelbase is too long. Have wider tyres on a number of my bikes (been collecting for over 40 years) and having raced and do serious long distance riding confirm the only bike I have ever had such a problem with is my Diavel. My mates XDiavel was the same even with mid-peg conversion. Never had a bike square off a front tyre in under 2000 miles before either!

[@grahamtricker4103]

@@TheMissendenFlyer On my HD Breakout, which had a 240 rear (all be it was a different profile) I found the best way was to anticipate the corner as you approach it and try to get the speed about right so you can pitch it in on countersteer and hold the speed around the corner, maybe use a bit of rear brake if you are going wide, on exit you can then increase speed again. It's a bit more tricky on the Breakout as that has a much longer fork, almost chopper-style plus the rear tyre has a squarer profile than the 240 on the X-Diavel. Get the corner right and you feel you have achieved something! 😉 Getting around every corner was an achievement on the Breakout and try to avoid tight roundabouts. It was a challenging bike to ride but I still have a lot of fond memories riding it.😀

[@flibbertigibbet6200]

I've got one of these but the S version and come from 8 sports bikes and can honestly say I have never gone wide on any corner!

[@yakekaj]

Wow a bike you dont like, never thought I'd see the day!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I tend to like most machines for sure....just I like some more than others...I really thought I was going to love this too.

[@yakekaj]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I always have a little chuckle when you explain that you can tell in the first few minutes if you like a bike, then always say you like it. I suppose it says a lot about the quality of modern motorbikes!!

[@happytoo10]

Honesty is the best policy 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

100% always...

[@kennethmccurdie5833]

Concur!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

...and there I was thinking you were Diavel fan No 1 Ken!!

[@kennethmccurdie5833]

TheMissendenFlyer I would have been if I’d had a reinforced spine!

[@willwye410]

OK, the XDiavel isn’t a practical do-it-all bike, but then neither are any Ducati sportsbikes. Ducati always do performance and style superbly but not practicality. Even Monsters & Scramblers have limitations. If anyone wants a do-it-all Ducati there’s really only one choice = a Multistrada

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very true - although I'd add the Scrambler 1100 to the great at everything list of Ducati bikes....

[@mrcintheuk4641]

My brother lives in the States so bought himself a cruiser. Like you, he quickly discovered that the last bike you want to go cruising on is a cruiser. Oh the irony!

[@princeofdenmark9142]

looks great, but not sure what they were going for. if they're after harley, then they're fighting brand loyalty... what happened to their monsters? they weren't 20k!!

[@craig3150]

Mate you're. A lot of half witted comments I took this bike to Spain did 3299 all around Spain 18 of us on Diavels or X Diaveks riding for 22 days bike loaded up never missed a beat and yes I agree there are better cruisers even a Pan European is super comfy but nothing on the X diavel for sheer power and handling ...if you can't cope with feet forward don't ride them

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes fair enough....!

[@nokneedownian8521]

You should have probably rode a Harley or Indian first to get that comparison mate

[@phillipbrewster6058]

Sorry I cant listen to you rag on such a beautiful beast

[@billcotton1551]

I can't wait to see what you think of the new Rocket III

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I have one in the garage at the moment! Stay tuned.....

[@billcotton1551]

I'd stop over ,but that darn Atlantic Ocean.

[@3maneu229]

Let's be honest. British potols are build around roads. And there are a load of them.

[@stevenhoman2253]

my opinions are if anything, reinforced by your review. pose bike cruisers arent for me either. i would never consider purchasing a cruiser. wonder how the yanks have taken to it?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I've no idea what sales are like....