Ducati’s Diavel V4 gains quickest-yet RS model 

Ducati’s new Diavel V4 RS arrives ready to rock for 2026. It is looking like the fastest Diavel ever made and Ducati’s quickest accelerating bike yet.

Desmosedici Stradale power

At the heart of the Diavel V4 RS is the 1103cc Desmosedici Stradale V4. This engine descends from Ducati’s MotoGP programme and powers the Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4. 

In its latest form it produces 133kW (179bhp) at 11,750 rpm and 119Nm at 9500 rpm. It uses a dry clutch and Ducati’s latest quickshifter system.

Final drive ratios are lower for the RS, to make the most of the engine’s power in the lower gears. Ducati claims this set-up, combined with its Power Launch system, allows the bike to hit 0–100km/h in 2.5 seconds. Well, that’s what Marc Márquez has managed. Mere mortals, likely somewhat less. 

Chassis and running gear

The RS uses the Desmosedici engine as a stressed member, with an aluminium monocoque frame, single-sided aluminium swingarm, and forged aluminium wheels. Suspension is by Öhlins front and rear, both fully adjustable. Up front are also 330mm discs with Brembo Stylema radial calipers. There’s a 265mm disc at the rear. Tyres are Diablo Rosso IVs, the rear a huge 240/45 section rear. The RS package saves around 3kg over the standard Diavel V4 thanks to forged wheels, carbon fibre bodywork, and a lithium-ion battery.

Electronics and rider aids

There’s a core Bosch IMU, with three Power Modes (High, Medium, Low) and four Riding Modes (Race, Sport, Touring, Wet). The Race mode is a first for the Diavel line-up. Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, Cornering ABS, are standard, along with launch control. 

The five-inch TFT dash features RS-specific graphics. There’s a display that mimics the Panigale and Streetfighter’s Track Info Mode when in Race mode. 

Styling and details

The Diavel V4 RS gets a special RS livery, and carbon fibre mudguards, air intakes, and tailpiece. There are red-painted Brembo calipers, titanium exhaust tips, and laser-etched badging. The RS is a single-seater, although a pillion seat and footrests are supplied in the kit.

Forged wheels with a five-spoke “Y” design complete the look. The numbered series plate on the cylinder head makes each bike uniquely identifiable.

Price and availability

Deliveries of the Diavel V4 RS will start December 2025 while those in far-flung markets will receive their allocation of bikes in Q1 of 2026. 

And a matching Multistrada V4 RS

Also announced at the same time is the first Multistrada to get the Desmosedici Stradale engine from the Panigale V4.

Its powertrain is much the same as that of Diavel V4 RS and the chassis is similar. However, the MS V4 RS uses Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active units, a system borrowed from the Panigale V4 S. Riders can choose between Track, Dynamic, Touring, and Low Grip suspension tunes independent of ride mode setting. There are four power modes and five ride modes. 

Brakes and electronics are similar to those on the Diavel V4 RS while this too has Cornering ABS. Weight savings are the same at 3kg.

The 6.5-inch TFT dash uses new graphics. Ducati Connect with smartphone mirroring is standard. Ergos change slightly with higher, more rearward footpegs, a lower and narrower handlebar, and softer grips. Special features include Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection. 

This too is a numbered series, with similar delivery times to Diavel RS.