Ducati Diavel and 1198 SP Gear Up for Dallas

After bringing its whole arsenal to the EICMA show in Milan last week, Italian manufacturer Ducati recently announced it will also present the new 2011 Ducati Diavel power cruiser and Ducati 1198 SP superbike to Dallas. The two bikes will make their North American debut at the Progressive International Motorcycle Show in Dallas on November 12, 2010.

The Diavel came in second behind the MV Agusta F3 in the votes cast, with 20,6 percent of the votes, for the Best in Show award at EICMA, so it’s expected to rock Dallas as well later this week.

The latest creation from Ducati, mix between a naked street bike, a cruiser and a sports bike, comes fitted with ABS, Ducati Traction Control and a Ducati Riding Modes system that offers it versatility (Sport, Touring and City modes available).

The bike is powered by a 1,198cc Testastretta 11 degree engine that allows the rider to play with 162 hp at 9,500 rpm and a peak torque of 94 lb-ft (127.4 Nm) at 8,000 rpm. The simple version of the Diavel weighs in 463 pounds/ 210 kg (dry weight), while the carbon variant tips the scales at 456 pounds (207 kg).

On the other hand, the new track-ready 1198 SP comes equipped with Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Quick Shifter, Ducati Data Analyzer, Ohlins TTX rear suspension, a race-derived slipper clutch, lightweight aluminum fuel tank, and 370 pounds/ 168 kg dry weight.

It also marks the first time in history that "quick-shift" electronics have been fitted to a production Ducati machine. “From experience gained on circuits all over the world comes the most exclusive, highest-ever performance 1198 SP ever,” Ducati brags. “The 1198 SP is all set for your next track challenge.”