Can’t get enough
Despite a natural aversion to any form of discomfort, James is fighting his instincts and riding the Xdiavel in all conditions. He likes it
WHAT A GREAT MONTH (October 2016) of unseasonal weather we’ve had. It’s been especially welcome as it’s allowed me to keep using the Xdiavel long after my traditional road riding months have ended. I’m very happy to have surprised some old (much hardier) motorcycling friends by turning up unannounced at the arseend of the (wimpy) riding season with the Xdiavel as my badge of manliness. And yet what an easy companion it’s been. I will never tire of the sound of a nice V-twin and this big, creamy 1200 engine is a perfect match for its laid back stance. The only difference is I’ve turned on the traction control and ABS which I’d been running without all summer. I’m not a masochist so it seems wise to make full use of such systems, especially as the weather turns. And I have to say Ducati have done a great job with the electronic aids. It’s perfectly judged and so unobtrusive it doesn’t interfere with normal fun at all, but lurks reassuringly alongside covering your back. I’ve never felt the ABS working and only felt the traction control once (it’s at level three). I was teasing it on purpose on a slippy, open, leafy corner. My angle was safe so I gassed it, ready for a certain slide, but the electronics neatly bogged it down, reigned it in and then filtered the power through in safe increments. It turned out to be a very good test. In fact I’m so loving this bike I might well press on into the proper winter months, like a real motorcyclist, and see how the finish stands up. Might.