Harley-Davidson FXDR 114 vs. Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114 vs. Ducati Diavel 1260 S
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- Опубліковано 22 січ 2025
- Three power cruisers, each with their own style, go head to head. Will the Harley-Davidson FXDR 114, H-D Fat Bob 114, or Ducati Diavel 1260 S take the win in this shootout.
Cruisers generally don’t need to change much to sell. In fact, models that offer classic silhouettes tend to outsell progressive designs-regardless of performance. And while traditional bikes remain the bread and butter of the cruiser world, in an effort to attract new riders to the segment and to sell more machines, makers push designs in new ways.
These three motorcycles-the Harley-Davidson Fat Bob 114, Harley-Davidson FXDR 114, and Ducati's Diavel 1260 S-are here to shove a piece of cruiser market into a new era. These three bikes sit atop the evolving genre as the fastest, most aggressive cruisers out there. And the faster and more aggressive they get, the less they tend to look like traditional cruisers. In fact, this comparison could be called the shootout of weird headlights. We've come a long way from a 7-inch round sealed beam…
But the overall designs are just symbolic of another broader departure. Most traditional American-style motorcycles still replicate the design language introduced by the Harley-Davidson Knucklehead in 1936, and this silhouette typically hasn't represented all-around hot-rod performance. So when manufacturers want to stretch the category and attract new buyers who might be thinking of transitioning from another sportier category, they try to do something different.
We were big fans of the 2018 Fat Bob 114 because it offered seemingly impossible dynamics from this chunky-tired chassis and big-bore engine. It was such a fun "cruiser," and pushed the styling boundaries so hard, we picked it as Cycle World's Best Cruiser of 2018. This year, Harley-Davidson again forged ahead with the FXDR 114, delivering burly drag-racing-inspired styling to the mix but still on the Softail platform. The Ducati Diavel is also a previous Ten Best Bikes winner in the cruiser category for bringing an Italian superbike ethic to an American-style bike, though no one would ever mistake the Diavel 1260 S for anything but a Ducati.
To test these machines, three of us rode Southern California’s roads from our Orange County headquarters to the California historical landmark of Julian, a quaint town with a long history of serving exceptional apple pie at roughly 4,200 feet of elevation. This route meant that straight highways led to long, meandering turns as we neared our destination, and the final sprint up the mountain contained nothing but tight corners as we rocketed up in elevation. Through fast and slow, straight and twisty, we used Bluetooth comms to talk with each other in our helmets, comparing and evaluating the bikes as we rode.
Southbound on California's main motor artery that is Interstate 5, all three bikes chugged along at an effortless and relaxed 75 mph. With us twisting the throttle to pass cars at speed, seat-of-the-pants feeling had the Fat Bob responding a little more quickly than the FXDR, but the Ducati easily left both Harleys in the dust. Ducati's superbike heritage explodes from the liquid-cooled 1260 S engine, despite its "cruiser" role, while Harley-Davidson's air-cooled "big blocks" are high-performance versions of a purely American kind of motorcycle powerplant.
The Harley-Davidson models are both equipped with 114ci Milwaukee-Eight engines-the largest available in the Softail lineup. These 1,868cc, air-cooled, four-valves-per-cylinder, 45-degree V-twin engines brought the Softail lineup into a new era (along with all-new chassis), but still offer that big-flywheel, torque-intensive character Americans love above all other large-displacement motorcycle engines. And while you might expect these two V-twins with identical displacement and gearing to offer identical performance, they exhibited different characteristics on the road as well as on the Cycle World dyno. The Fat Bob made 82.3 hp and 111.39 pound-feet of torque, while the FXDR was about 3 hp and 4 pound-feet down on those peak numbers, due, Harley-Davidson said, to normal production variation.
Out in the real world, seat-of-the-pants feeling also gave the nod to the Fat Bob, which felt like it launched off the line a little quicker than the FXDR, a somewhat unexpected outcome considering the drag inspiration of the latter and its 240mm rear tire. Winding up to the top of the revs, the FXDR also vibrated more than the Fat Bob, leaving us favoring the Fat Bob in both high and low rpm. The Ducati meanwhile was in a world of its own.
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I have ridden Harleys for quite a few years and enjoyed each of them. About two years ago I considered the new fatbob.....even went for a test ride. I was quite impressed with the bike. BUT then I went out of curiosity to our local Ducati dealer and test rode the XDiavel. Oh man, what a machine!! And what a looker!! Looks like something batman should own. Needles to say, I have my XDiavel now for 2 years and has done long distance riding (touring) as well. Still love every moment on it and never regret my choice. I love Harleys, and always will, BUT I believe they are overpriced. You get way more bang for your buck with the Ducati. Just my opinion.
Wow, Not very many people ever accused ducati of delivering bang for your buck. Harley must be a cash bon fire.
The prices doenst make sense. Ducati uses more sophisticated materials, Harley uses very simples stuff. But i still chose Fat Boy (not Fat Bob) over sportbikes because of reability n fuel efficiency (the maximum torque comes at 2800 rpm on the Fat Boy i think).
Hey Francois, I like your assessment of the XDiavel. Question, are Ducatis' reliable? Or, are they maintenance prone and expensive to keep up? Thanks.
@@KB15458 I have owned 3 Ducati Diavels now and they are absolutely reliable. I just bought my 3rd one a few weeks ago.
@@croftholder71 Thanks for that.
Hi guys I have owned three harleys an Electra glide, a slim and a v rod all do not compare with my recent purchase a Ducati Diavel 1260 S . This bike is out of this world and I must say I loved my Harleys’ but the Ducati makes you smile from the moment you get on it to the moment you get off... I agree with your comments above, save to say, I’m a Harley owner loving the Diavel S
I’ll ride pretty much everything with two wheels, and have owned every kind of bike. Right now I have a Kawi Z900, a beat up KLR650 and a new Fat Bob 114. I test rode the XDiavel and the VMax before I got the Fat Bob. Honestly, XDiavel is just a sport bike dressed up as a cruiser, and the 1260 even more so. I’d just get the Streetfighter if that’s what I was aiming for. VMax is fun in the straight, but just not much else.
The Fat Bob is just a hoot to ride. Enough lean angle, brakes and shock to have fun, but still just be able to cruise if you want. The hate for HD, just like HD guys hating everything else, is just so ignorant and stupid. Stop being so brand or type oriented, check out the "other guys", you might be surprised.
What on Earth are you on about?? VMAX only fun on the straights? You can drift that thing on any corner! That’s the definition of fun. I have a low rider s and it’s cool and all but the VMAX destroys it in every single way.
@@Eidrian111 I'll have to agree with chris kmiec, the Vmax is a turd in the twisties. Drifting? That's for cars and its gay. If your sliding/ slipping, your not going fast.
you are an old dude right? sound like an old dude.
I 100 percent agree with the OP if you want a Ducati that’s a naked bike kinda cruiser for 20-25k just get the new streetlight V4, it’s really everything but the kitchen sink in a motorcycle
Annon Skeete you didn’t spend time around your dad did you? The old peeps lived your life plus less? Oh wait... no more 😘
Of coarse there’s a 5 year old who thinks their smarter than all 10 year old’s...
We just smile cus it’s rude to pick on the young.
There not even developed yet 👶 🍼 .
I own a 2018 Fat Bob 114 and it is a genuinely fun bike in pretty much all situations. But I won’t sit here and pretend it’s performance is in the same league as that Ducati 🤣 good review though!
I agree. I also have a Fat Bob. I can't get past the ugly aesthetics of the Diavel. I know some people like it but I think it looks like a confused "doesn't know what it wants to be" bike. I'm not sure what sort of rider it would appeal to. imo It's too big and cumbersome for sports/naked riders and too naked/sporty looking for your typical cruiser rider.
the problem on FXDR is don't have a front protection ua-cam.com/users/shortsRQQappu19QQ
@@StateOfMind63 my buddy has the 2015 Diavel Carbon edition, &everyone in our crew loves it, &everyone that sees it at shows, bars, riding around or wherever we go almost always compliment his Diavel first rofl. He threw a puig adjustable windscreen on it, & a few other aesthetic mods, &it looks great. Being black, red&carbon fiber also makes it looks better than other Diavels I think. It’s a blast to rip around on also, it’s no slouch whatsoever
From Europe : I rode the Ducati xdiavel and the Harley Fat Bob and I choose the Harley any time...however the Ducati has tons of power in this equation. Ergonomics are - for me personal - fantastic. For now, I ride a Ducati monster 821, but man I want that Harley Fat Bob 114 for it's ergonomics, legacy and for it's easy going. Different kind of bike, but I prefer less power.
Not a good day when the Ducati is the bargain of the group.
Best bike won other 2 are cheaply put together junk
@@JohnG-gu5wo Exactly.
Is it really? You obviously know nothing about modern day ducati..
@@JohnG-gu5wo Are you replying to me?
vegarosa69 no not you mate
When you buy a Ducati or most other bikes, they are ready to go. You do not have to go to a stage 4 for more power, difference handlebars and other expensive mods.
Exactly
To be fair, you don’t have to do that with an HD either. I have a stock dyna street bob aside from T bars and slip on’s and it’s fun as hell to me as is. Would I like more power? Sure, but mostly because it becomes a competition amongst other HD riders not sport bikes. We know that a big air cooled v twin on a HEAVY (albeit well-built) frame cannot compete with engines that rev way higher on bikes that are 200 pounds lighter. I personally get much more enjoyment and fun on my dyna than my MT07. Also, people buy HDs with the intention to customize them. That’s not a drawback, that’s part of the experience; to make it unique to you.
Handlebars are a mod every rider should consider. Making the bike fit you is very important, and bikes can't be one size fits all. I'm very tall so I actually tend to go for lower rise bars to get some of my torso out of the wind.
I just slightly adjusted the Clip ons to fold a bit towards me, bought a new seat, and she rides like a dream.
I used to own a Night Rod, so the FXDR having that same style was enough for me. I don't mind the Ergos, long wheelbase, raked out front end, nor even the 240 rear.
It's a very specific style of motorcycle and I absolutely adore it! It's just a solid slab of Muscle Rod, a pure dragster at heart. That's the type of bike it is!
Up next..2020 Dodge Challenger R/T vs Dodge Charger R/T vs. Lamborghini Huracan Evo...see how they do on the track!
With the twist being that the two dodge products cost the same as the huracan
exactly... very weird review of 3 bikes built for 3 different things and they only tested them in a way that would naturally favor a sport bike. It's kind of like... okkkkkkkkkk. What? The sport bike did the best on sport shit? You must be kidding me....
@@jSwag47 Ducati's sport bike is the Panigale, not the Diavel. It's just that HD's shit engineering and performance-wise. HD's alive because of character, community, etc.
The thing is Dodge doesn't have the nerve to charge as much for a Challenger/Charger as a Lamborghini.
Dont say nonsense. These is a huge price difference from Dodge to Lamborghini, but there is not that much price difference between HD and Ducati diavel. HD is pritty shitty and other companies are better , although the same price .
This is my issue with any videos/reviews that call a Diavel a ‘cruiser’ especially since 2016 Ducati offers XDiavel which is actually a cruiser!! FFS!!
I am a 65 year old bike lover had most of the brands over the years including Ducati's but since buying a 2018M8 114 Fatboy there's no going back. I just brought a 2019 FXDR and for me its about the look of the bike the sound of the bike and the pleasure I get when I ride them, yes of course I give them a squirt but I am not out to race every other rider on the road. Harley riders buy Harley's for what they are.......fuck'n awesome.
Never met a motorcycle I didn’t like. I rode a Ducati multistrada across the country with a club that only rides Harley. 3 were bought when we got home.
Wrong Diavel. The X-Diavel is the more appropriate comparison here.
And i'm betting the X-Diavel would still kick Harleys ass :)
X diavel is more sportier..this was conparison of cruisers..diavel is more of a cruiser than xdiavel..
I guess u got it wrong.
X diavel is a league of its own.even vmax cant challenge them
@@darklight898 That's 100% wrong. The xDiavel IS the cruiser. Forward pegs. The Diavel is the sport bike. The xDiavel was made to be the crossover cruiser.
@@darklight898 You are full of bollocks, the Xdiavel has feet forward and therefore is the cruiser version
@@RandySpeer i see you beat me to it
Long haired dude was super biased, totally respect what the guy with the glasses was saying.
That Ducati surpasses every aspect of performance, against those harley's
Much More Powerful.
Lighter.
Much better brakes.
Much better tires.
Much better technology.
Etc.
Etc.
Felix Contreras exactly, and I have both brands, but that is the truth.
Felix Contreras and looks terrible.
It's almost like they compared a sport bike against 2 cruisers.
@@jonnymac8925 diavel is power cruiser
@@mohandasghandi3441 It is beefy compared to a sport bike, but it is no way a power cruiser. It fits in the Super Naked category long before cruiser or power cruiser. It has the ergonomics of a sport bike for the most part, and no room for carrying stuff. It is an amazing bike, but it isn't a cruiser. I suppose it could be considered a sport cruiser somewhere in there, but that is still like comparing apples to oranges. The Harleys might look the part, but they are still cruisers. There isn't anything the FXDR has that say a Road Glide or Street Glide won't have except maybe inverted forks. The Diavel is just a beast all the way around.
I own a 2019 fatbob 107 and am now curious about the ducati diavel I like the information yal shared I think I will test ride a ducati in the future
You should. It’s stupid fast.
I own a Diavel 1260 and Im curious about the Fatbob. There is always something one bike got that the one you own dont ; )
Why would this not feature the xDiavel?!
Excellente vidéo !!!!!👍👍👍 👍👍👍👍 I m french and i have a hd Fatbob 114 it s very very good bike !!!
The thing that's really hard to quantify in a review is how HD owners make each bike their own with the near infinite amount of aftermarket accessories on offer - you just don't see two alike and it's YOUR bike.
I love the spannering & modifying side of things almost as much as riding - it's a huge part of bike ownership for me, and while I'm happy to throw a new cam or bigger jugs in a Milwaukee 8, there's no way on earth 99% of home mechanics (and most general moto garages) are digging into a complex desmodronic short stroke or changing anything on the bike beyond basic bolt on replacements.
Accurate review for 'factory standard' though, nice work.
Exactly 💯. The FXDR has caught my eye; especially since I used to own a 2008 Night Rod Special. You're totally spot on about making your bike YOURS. So many people crap on the FXDR, but as someone else pointed out, I'm not getting this bike to race everybody else out on the road and prove how much of a bad a** I am. I want an already mean looking machine and to customize it and make it mine and to enjoy riding.
I'm a happy owner of xDiavel, fat Bob and HD Sportster S were on my list. Why Ducati? Comfort, comfort and once again comfort. A tad of helpful technologies as a bonus
I’ve ridden all 3 of these bikes and also the XDiavel... so a much better comparison would’ve been the XDiavel Vs FXDR, then the Diavel 1260 Vs the Fat Bob..! My two favourites... Fat Bob & Diavel 1260, both achieving big grin factor in their own unique ways👌🏼
The latest comparison I’d now like to see is the Diavel 1260 & the Fat Bob VS Triumphs new Rocket 3.
As an owner of a Harley FXDR 114, I can say I absolutely love the bike, and to answer their question I would say yes, given the opportunity to give the diavel a run I definitely would. Looks awesome and another fun bike to ride
Agreed mate, love my fxdr also but would love to try a Diavel.
18000km fun on my Fatbob now and I still love that bike get it into a stage 2 🎉
I love Ducati’s . I have one. In fact, I love all bikes.
Recently, I bought a Harley... nothing feel like a Harley. Don’t knock it before you try it.
Well said brother. Same here.
@Ben Daulton What would you know about a Harley since you still ride tricycles?
@Ben Daulton Nope, just a typical narrowed minded know nothing delusional imbecile.
@Ben Daulton No, and I don't care to hear from know nothing imbeciles either. Since I have and own 2 brand new HD's and currently still have one Ducati and have owned 3 others including a 1199.
@Ben Daulton You wear a dress period.
Most definitely agree with your comparison results. Having rode the same three motorcycle I, for one, can certainly agree with you considering these cruisers outright and overall riding comfort, predictiveness and performance.
I went from street bikes to the 2011 Diavel amazing machine all around. Love the new Diavel 1120s its on my list.
the mental gymnastics required to compliment the two HD's next to a modern Ducati is quite hilarious. Weird comparo.
how about the mental gymnastics required to choose a diavel over a multistrada?
greg alford its a harley u dont get it. Hell they get it
Not true, go ride a new Harley and then rethink. I have 6 bikes which includes KTM and Ducati, my Road Glide and Low Rider S are 2 of the best bikes I have ever owned.
@@gigi9467 that's right. Harley has all the unreliability of the Ducati, with none of the power or handling...
WhiteSpider125 sorry to say but in the 10 harleys and close to 100k i have yet tp see the bad reliability u stupidly speak of.
Keeping my emotions out of it, thank you for the facts! Excellent info!!
I think this was one of the most fair comparisons I have seen. But as a former Fatbob 114 owner, there are a few things I want to add.
1. I changed my tires to Dunlop Elite 3. Made a big difference in the handling. Stock sizes
2. Did a Stage 1 tune and changed out that Mufflers to Rineharts. Stock headers.
3. After changing the tires, I felt safe enough to get rid of the speed limiter. The bike will so 150 easy.....tested in Mexico.......
4. Adjusted the throttle response.
Not a big investment to get that extra 20% of performance(H-D chokes their bikes for emissions). The Ducati is a better top end bike. But I would not buy a Ducati. The Harley may cost more initially, but you will wind up paying more to maintain the Ducati in the long run. Especially if you log the heavy miles.
The FXDR is a cool bike but useless at the same time. At least I can outfit the Fatbob for a passenger and some luggage. The FXDR is just a Bar hopper/Drag bike. For much less, you could get a VMAX, or a Rocket 3.
What about maintenance and reliability?
There are lots of bumps/holes in the roads, where I live. I need to be able to stand on the pegs, occasionally. Forward controls make that difficult
Great video! I own a Fat Bob 107 and love everything about it...Ducati Diavel 1260 S may be a better ride in the mountains but don't like the look of it...it also doesn't look as comfortable
Yeah it’s way more comfortable. The diavel that is.
George Jimenez I got the 2019 Fatbob114 because it’s a happy bike and I’m not tempted to do over 100 every day.
It also eats holes and bad roads sooo well. People lavish praise on my every time I go out for a ride it’s is like a phenomena.
I know the Diavel will drop hard in price again and again while I’m looking for a bike I can buy and hold and customize over time.
If I never wanted to touch my bike and still needed to break the law daily ide go Diavel.
Instead I went with my long term joy and and am super happy with Harley.
And yes it my first Harley coming off of Kawasaki, Honda, and 2 Bmws.
It’s confortable as fuck and there is something above 4000rpm....
I had a 2018 Fat Bob that I put a set of radials on and did a Two Brothers 2/1 with tune and some new bars with more pull back. The Fat Bob is a great bike but the forward pegs did not work well for longer rides. The Ducati looks like the clear winner here. The Fat Bob with mid controls would be my choice.
Which would be more reliable over 5 yrs or 10 yrs or more? Is it easier to find parts, or to find someone to fix the bike, if u have one of the Harleys vs the Ducati? Will parts and maintenance be cheaper if u have one of the Harleys vs the Ducati? For me, Harley dealership is a half hour drive, while Ducati dealership is 1.5 hour drive.
Ducati Diavel 1260 S = $23,000
Fat Bob 114 (other than black paint) = $19,200
FXDR 114 (other than black paint) = $19,400
The Ducati is very nice but you do bring to light a good point. For myself.... Nearest Harley dealership is 1 hour away. Nearest Ducati dealership is 3 hours away.
And for me the HD dealers are 100 metres further down the road than Ducati. So I guess I'd pop in there and buy a... Monster 821. Then again, the Triumph dealer is halfway...
18000 miles on my diavel with one fault. Had a map sensor go bad $124 installed at ducati. Now 18000 mile service is roughly $1200. Tires are on the expensive side with only 2 options both average about 4-6000 miles worth of wear. I would still rather ride the ducati. This bike is blisteringly fast and comfortable for the long haul. The best part is the look on squids faces when your cruiser smokes thier crotch rocket.
@will M thats the thing the diavel isthe best of both worlds its perfectly comfortable cruising slow but it has the power to throw down when you wanna go fast.
Parts and labor costs are comparable only issue is having a dealer or a Ducati specialist close by. I live in NYC so dont have this issue but I can see how dealer availability is concern if I was in the middle of the country.
It's crazy how worlds apart the Diavel is. I think power is the biggest factor and second is weight and handling. To compare the power would be like the HDs having 100cc's and the Diavel being a 1000cc, it's truly that big of a difference not to mention the characteristics between the two power plants which alone is not comparable. As you said, it is a super bike motor in a "cruiser" chassis. The Diavel literally feels half the weight of these HDs too and loves to corner and is quite flickable off center. When you ride the Diavel, thoughts of "sport bike" sometimes even enter your mind which would never happen on one of these HD's. The HD's are fun in their own ways and respects but the Diavel is in a whole different league of its own. Almost incomparable in almost all ways aside from having two wheels and still being classified as a "cruiser."
So.....the Diavel is basically in the same price ballpark and also performs better in every way?
I just bought a 1260S about a month ago. Coming off of an R1, it’s an awesome choice. The sport bike isn’t a lot of fun on the street because of the aggressive position. I want a bike that has as much bite as bark, and the Ducati has it in spades.
Ralph Warom indeed. It’s priced similar and has TONS of features... Quickshifter and Öhlins on a cruiser dammit Ducati!!!
@@ralphwarom2514 yes, but if we brought in the BMW 1000rr it would out perform the Diavel in every way....problem here was the Diavel clearly didn't belong.
@Noctor Hage but isn't that the point? Isn't the Diavel a different type of bike like a sport bike is a different type of bike? Mainly I like that the Diavel has great brakes....every bike needs good brakes, right?
First off, great comparison! Been looking for a video like this. 👍🏻
I’ve got a Road King Special and have really enjoyed it…until I took it to Colorado to go riding with friends. All of them had Ducatis and BMWs and I simply couldn’t keep up or enjoy the mountain roads as much as them.
After riding a few of their bikes I’m sold on trading in my RKS and getting either a Diavel or a Streetfighter. Can’t wait to take them both on test rides and make my choice!!
The Diavel is waaaaay better for touring than the Streetfighter. I have owned 3 Diavels now and have done many thousands of miles touring. Never even get a sore butt or back.
Really wish the Harley guys would try the diavel. They wouldn't look back. And I think that scares them away from it. I'm about to get my 2nd diavel upgrading to the 1260s. And can't wait!
I’m a fan of Harley but i hate how Harley owners think :
“ apples and oranges dude.” Is what they will always say when you compare another brand’s cruisers to their own.
Sorry about your feelings bro, but if it says “cruiser” on paper then I’m comparing them. You cant call something a “performance cruiser” then not allow it to be compared to a different performance cruiser from another brand.......that would be illogical.
Wow an actually open minded harley fan
It's rare to see in the wilds
Elfa Seccioria
Yea man I’m a student of all motorcycles and riding styles. I own a 2017 speed triple S and when I pay that off I’m looking to add a Harley Fatboy. I constantly cross shop I like to know ALL options before making a big purchase. Some people think that bikes from the same category aren’t comparable. That’s retarded lol.
Finally another Harley fan who gets it. I remember writing an article on Harley and compared the fat Bob and FXDR to the diavel and VMAX to make my point, only for people to come and call them sportbikes due to them being from a different brand..
Jool wow, a reasonable Harley motorcycle owner and rider! Now try to convince all the other Harley owners, who prefer trying to look cool over practicality! Keep riding dude, peace ✌️
Indeed, the comparison is between a disguised sport bike and two true cruisers. What's wrong is not the numbers in papers, but the mentality, specifically thinking that every bike must have all infinite power and able to let the rider scrap their skull in any corner, otherwise is not worth riding. That's the real issue today in the motorcycle world. There is more than a GP bike or mentality.
Comparing a disguised sport bike to a cruiser is like comparing a jet fighter to a helicopter and the mistake lies in believing the jet fighter is better because it's way faster.
Getting rid off the racing mentality would be healthy in motorcycling.
Buying those bikes you’re not looking for the higher performance, choose the look you like the most 😀For me, the FatBob is just outstanding 👍👍
I have a Diavel and have ridden my friends HDs, it isn't close. Plus who wants to get beat by a 400cc sport bike lol.
@@UvidCo you’re right, it isn’t close! If you want a sport bike, buy a sport bike... if you want a cruiser buy a cruiser. I have never been in favor of hybrid things 😉
@@christianmouraux7269I think you misunderstood what I meant, when I say it isn't even close I mean the Diavel is the better bike, why sacrifice speed for comfort when you can have both. I have friends with sport bikes and I can hang with all of them through twistys but after an hr of riding my back isn't killing me. Though having to stop after that hr gives the HD guys time to catch up lol.
@@UvidCo ok I’m glad you’re happy with the Ducati ✌️
I own the 2019 Xdiavel. it's super powerful. the launch control is absolutely bonkers and you had better H.T.F on or you'll be eating rear tire. So glad i bought it.
I am emotional about my black piano fat bob 117 2019 for sure! Good review.
I've owned 12 Harleys, Tomorrow I'm test riding a 2017 Ducati Diavel X 1260 S. I want performance this time.
Did you like the Ducati better than the Harley?
Bet you will never go back to HD again! I traded mine in for a KTM! No regrets!
I own a Ducati XDiavel and a Triumph Rocket 111. Love them both for different reasons. I have sent my Ducati as a single seater and if I need to take a pillion then it's the Rocket 111.
Starting riding after 20yrs in oct 2020 and test rode all three(x diavel is the right comparison for these)... Ended up buying fxdr cuz of the love for vrod.... Granted i did not take the test rides on the sport mountain But I honestly think fat bob was the best bike or at least the best harley. I felt good on that bike. Just looks so menacing.... my opinion.... 🤷🏾
I envy you. I haven't been on a bike in nearly 10 years due to life circumstances and obligations. I'm currently 37 years old and looking within the next 3 years to get "back in the saddle." I used to have a 2008 Night Rod Special and that's why I'm hoping I can find a decent used FXDR when the time comes.
something (almost) off topic. Who's playing the leadersong?
I would describe the tested bikes as “Roadsters” and not “Cruisers”, definition being that on a cruiser you’ll stay in the moment and you’re able to take in the atmosphere in total relaxation. On a roadster or sports bike it’s all about the next gear, the next curve e.t.c.
I have a Harley-Davidson Sport Glide and that’s the tool replacing all kinds of anti stress therapy!
Ehh I’ve always heard the Diavel, FXDR, triumph rocket 3/III/Triple called muscle cruisers&thought that was appropriate
Ducati Diavel is the only reason i clicked on this
Makes more sense to compare the Diavel against the 2020 Rocket III and VMAX.
You’re telling me a Ducati naked bike out performs a harley cruiser??? Mind blowing!!
Now that I have grown up, and can put ego aside. Definitely the Ducati all the way! It will be my next motorcycle purchase. 🇮🇹💗🇨🇦⚡☯️🔥✌🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
How can you say now that your grown and then use all those emojis like a 14 year old girl.
@@KD-pf9yi 🖕🖕🖕🖕🖕🖕🖕🖕
Revisiting this video after owning the HD Fat bob then moving on. I can say that the fat bob was fun on twisty country roads due to its torque and short rake not a hard feat to reach however it lacks the tech that my new bike has that makes it soooo much better. Harley step up your game start signing deals with ohlins, Brembo, and make a liquid Cooled vtwin that pushes over 100hp out of the box without dumping a bank full of money 💰 in it so you don’t get demolished by the competition. After all I’m American but refuse to pay top dollar for junk scrap metal that weighs a ton...You are losing consumers while companies like KTM, BMW, Ducati, and the big four are absorbing them....Wake Up!
How customizable is Ducati looks ect
I come from a motocross and speedway background and have only had a couple of road bikes which didn’t do a lot for me except just having the experience of owning them but just recently purchased a fat bob my first Harley and absolutely love it I can’t imagine owning anything else for the road but you have to give credit where credit is due and that’s that Ducati make an excellent bike and I would definitely test drive one of their sport cruiser’s and in a perfect world and if i had enough money id probably own both
I was a hardcore Harley guy (softail slim, road king, street glide, Breakout CVO, new 114 Breakout)...but I am Diavel nut after owning a 2011 model...if it wasn't for the horrible resale value I would jump on the 1260 in a heartbeat....leagues ahead of any FXDR or FXBRS (which I own so I'm not biased)
I've also owned many Harley's but honestly doesn't compare with any Ducati. Nowadays I own a Goldwing gl 1800, Diavel Carbon 2014, Monster S4 and a Ducati 998s without any issue. Very reliables so far and the resale value for me it's not a problem because I think that these bikes are not an investment only a hobby and I'm happy with that. If you like the new Diavel go for it, you only live once!!
Ducati is in another Stratosphere compared to HD, the pinnacle of motorcycles has just arrived!!! Ducati StreetFighter V-4S Akropavic Titanium Race Exhaust 220-HP with a Moto-GP winning Desmo Stradale V-4 masterpiece!!!
This is the first video that has all the products i wanted to be compared.
Bugs bunny almost got toasted at 8:20😄
I don’t get talking poor cornering clearance when, as you can see, their body position is right on centreline in every shot.
Can't move your weight around if the footpegs aren't under your butt. When the pegs are so far forward, getting your ass off the seat to shift weight would involve pulling on the handlebars. You don't want to be pulling on the handlebars while preparing for a corner or changing direction.
I think it's a great comparison because both HD bikes are aiming for the same category as the Diavel. A cruiser than can corner. Couple that with the similar price points and these guys are spot on to review them and rate the Diavel as the winner. I just bought a 2020 Diavel 1260 S and it's a masterpiece. At 160hp / 100 lb ft of torque, it's perfect. Now put on the Termignoni exhuast and carbon fiber wheels and nothing can touch it. Now if only I had an extra $10K for those two mods......... :o/
I am a Ducati fan, but this is not a cruiser. I have a 2019 Fat Boy, that is a cruiser. The Ducati will always invite you to go fast on it. The XDiavel was on my list for a new bike and comes closer to a cruiser, but it is too fast to be a cruiser. I have had a Ducati Streetfighter 1098 and a Yamaha MT-10 so I know speed and sharp handling. I prefer the Harley.
Who Ami so cruisers can’t be fast? Then why do any engine upgrades? And why are they 114ci? Ducati does it better. Audi does it better. Period. Harley is stuck to things it can’t change. Made in America. Too expensive to make here. Traditional styling is a hinderance. It’s heavy. Ducati took a clean slate with tech and performance in mind and made a bike. Harley can not do that. I love Harley I have a very nice touring bike. I am a shareholder in Harley but I am a realist. If you don’t think that the Diavel can be a cruiser, check out the Diavel Strada edition.
@@Tredwayj Diavel to me is a naked bike not a cruiser with a sport engine from their sport bike line up, it was so stupid to compare it to the Harley's. i would a compare it to the boulevards and rocket 3 !
Value is immediately seen with the Ducati. Ducati more safety nets, most horsepower, SEXY SINGLE SIDED SWING arm, less weight, less corrosion problems by the ocean, power modes, color TFT, ohlins, M 50 Brembo’s, and its Italian Moving art with high rpm F1 sound track.
Great video. Which has more ground clearance between the two harleys?
You should have added the Triumph rocket 3 GT to the comparison 😂
Wow
Its muscle cruiser lol
ua-cam.com/video/l5N6puY5ogc/v-deo.html
here you go
I currently ride a Yamaha Raider, but would LOVE a Diavel. That cost of ownership on Ducatis is absolutely nuts. And my nearest certified Ducati dealer/shop is a 3 hour ride away.
Think I'll stick to my maintenance free(nearly) Yamaha. Love that Ducati though.
My wife and I spent 14.5 hours on a 750mile day on my 2014 Diavel Strada. And I can still hang off aggressively going up 'Poosh' Mountain. Best America-bike, ever.
I wish they still made the Yamaha Warrior, had a 2010 for a while and handles/pulls very well!
There is None so far that i saw anyone on UA-cam that test ride the Diavel and not Impressed by the bike and i watch almost every youtube video about Diavel. So yeah, Diavel is the best Cruiser. You can go with Diavel or X Diavel S, and the bike just so pretty as it is from factory. No need a lot of mods, but with harley you definitely need to mods the bike to looks good. I have nothing againts harley, i love harley, but diavel won.
Dinosaur Vs Technology
(HD ) ( Ducati )
Harley Davidson basically overpriced motorcycle
- cheap brake system
- heavy
- lame dashboard
- agriculturally electronic
- cheap and useless suspension system
- big engine with lame horsepower
- cornering clearances is horrible
Really would love the vmax 1700 compared. In terms of going around curves. Its huge, its long, its very much a cruiser. Can't think of a valid excuse to fail vs the Yamaha in handling.
I think the size of fuel tank and fuel efficiency killed the V-max. Its not pratical but its faster than any cruiser.
4:38 excellent cornering posture
I own a Ducati V4S and a Ducati Diavel 1260s. The diavel is in no way the corner cutting machine the V4s is but it is rather amazing how utterly seamless and lightweight the Diavel feels flicking it through a corner. The Diavel has one of the quickest and just superb turning radius for a bike of cruiser status. The Diavel has no problem chugging in low rpm's, it is easy to short shift and drive slow in a high gear for better fuel economy, but it has no problem ripping your head back if you go max wrist. I'm 6'5 nearly 6'6 and the diavel 1260s is a perfect cruiser and far superior choice to the xdiavel, in my personal opinion.
I ride with a harley guy and as many times as I've offered to let him ride either of my Ducatis, he wont break his Harley code.
As someone who owned a Ducati Diavel, owns a Ducati X Diavel S, and sportster S I can assure you the Sportster S is much smoother at low RPM’s. The Diavel corners better, and is the faster machine, but not by much. The suspension is also better on both Ducatis, the electronic package is better on the sportster S even though there’s no quick shifter, but it’s not needed since it shifts very well. At the end of the day you can’t got wrong with either of these bikes. I would pick a Ducati Diavel, or Sportster S over the X Diavel S though. Reasons for that is lack of quick shifter on the x Diavel S( I paid an extra 1,000$ for mine) and not a fan of the forward controls( paid an extra 850$ for mids) The quick shifter on the X Diavel S is ok at best compared to the one on the 1260. The only benefit I see with the XDS is the belt drive, and aesthetically it does look better than the rest of the bikes in question.
did you guys mention the price tags ? I guess I could look it up
There is no comparison. Harley cannot compete with the Diavel. It outclasses HD in every possible way.
I own a Harley. No hating. Just keeping it real. This was over before it started.
Mad vid guys. Keep up the good work!
It still amazes me how much non-HD guys don't get HD. I love the Softail FatBob. I love my Dyna FatBob. Still, I would buy the Duc for the better value. Tech, HP, and suspension go a long way.
Just sold my 14 CVO Road King that I poured money into; made 140 HP and 145 ft/bs of torque. Looking hard at a Diavel or a Monster. Both HD and Ducati have an aroura about them, just in different ways. I am even considering an Aprilia Tuono as well, I am not brand loyal; just looking for a good time!
Thoughts on that Triumph beast sport cruiser
Why no sport glide?
I am a Ducati rider so this beat down was no surprise. However, I'm also American. I am pleased that the Corvette finally took being a super car seriously, and am wondering when Harley is going to take performance seriously.
I test rode the Diavel X. Having rode super bike upto 2009, then purchased a Dyna Wideglide which I still have to this day.
Unquestionably it performs better in almost every aspect vs my 10 year old bike. But it still left me numb and more certain this was not the bike for me.
Harley’s just deliver like 10 times more on the emotion and experience of riding a bike.
After all, if the performance was all that mattered we would probably all be riding the same bikes.
Some pricing information would have been nice!?!?!
i borrowed a mates harley, and i killed a set of boots, pegs and blew through the exhaust covers.. i was not ready for how resistant to lean HD's are.
Good review of similarly priced bikes that people would consider if you’re just getting into cruisers
I like the Ducati but it’s not even in the same category as the harleys.
I would definitely get me a Ducati like that one.
I currently have a streetglide and a tuono, I like riding them both.
It’s like driving your 4x4 lifted Chevy truck and your 335 bmw, you like them both, they each have their character and enjoyment. I don’t detract from any of those bikes.
I'm a HD owner and I have fallen in love with the Ducatis.
I hate ducatis, why I do not know? but when you smoke them on the road on a little sporty it feels sooo good!
Moors Hound if you can smoke a street fighter v4 on a sportster they are holding back on that 204bhp
I say this because most sporsters have a hard time keeping up with me in my 05 springer classic with a stage 4.
@@badwolf6398 yep exactly my point, it's the rider not the bike, most guys I know with sports bikes are total pussy's, they don't ride in the cold they don't ride in the rain the ice or snow, & then when they do ride they never let the cat out the bag & rip it up.
Ride hard roll free..
Harley - Davidson Number 1.🌎🏍🇺🇸🦅
#Freedom.🗽❤
Should have compared the HDs with an XDiavel, if you wanted a fair comparison...
There's no fair comparison between HD and Ducati. HD makes farm tractors and Ducati makes fined tuned machines.
I owned both D and XD. It’s only gonna change the seating position. Still has three stage launch control, anti-wheelie, traction control etc. With Harley, it’s a lifestyle thing, there’s almost no point comparing them to anything, never mind a Ducati.
@@djb7302 I rode a Sportster 1200 and Dyna LowRider S (the one with the big 1800 engine). I was utterly unimpressed with both bikes. The Sportster was the one I could live up with but I'm not calling it a good bike by any stretch of the imagination, and the Dyna was the most uncomfortable bike ever. HD bikes don't handle, brake, accelerate or get better MPG than other bikes. They do cost more and are less reliable. With HD you're only paying for the name, nothing more.
I have Fat Bob 114, so cool to me.
Thanks for the vid. Interesting comparison, not sure these bikes compete as they attract different markets. I’ve been & I am a Harley rider, specifically prefer mine for touring, but I’ve always had to spend extra $$ to tune, exhaust & cam them to open them up; I understand reviewers frustration since they are detuned & not ready to roll stock. It’s one of those things, if you can afford it & like the soul of HD do it, if it needs to be explained or your buying for practicality I wouldn’t recommend. I’m not a purist however, love the stats & ride of the Ducati, poor thing is just so ugly. If I went Ducati would probably go Monster 1200S, realize it’s more aggressive but what a beauty & Diavel isn’t really a cruiser. Pure practicality you go Diavel ever time, but that’s not why you by bikes, they’re toys. The market agrees, I’ve seen several new 2018 & some 2017 new Diavels still available in Q3 2019 at the dealers. In a perfect world I would take both Ducati & Fat Bob; FXDR is a flop: poor riding position, sub par performance, etc., doesn’t do anything well. My tuned M8 Road Glide is as fast
The reason for the 2017/18 Diavels at the showroom was due to the major update to the line in 2019. The 19-22 Diavel is a much better bike all the way around compared to prior years.
None of those Bikes are what I would call a "Traditional" Cruiser. But, perhaps "Performance" Cruisers would be a better title... The real HD Big Block Softail Cruisers, to me, are the bottom three of the Softail line-up (the Street Bob, Low-Rider, and Softail Slim). Ducati makes high performance motorcycles; they don't make Cruisers, in my opinion. They should be in the "Naked" Bike Category and not the Cruiser Category; that's my opinion. Peace, Stiletto :-)
Make a comparison with ducati monster please
I really like the handlebars on the FXDR but forward controls are a deal breaker so it's the Diavel for me.
I’ll keep my Night Rod Special , thanx 🤷🏼♂️
As a Diavel owner I could se myself on a fatbob in the future but Im only 52 and still needs power. Last year I had a MT10 and the Diavel is more fun riding legaly. The L Twin 1260 motor is so much fun and even faster than the MT10 upp to 150 km/h.
I have an 18 FXBB,but I'm looking VERY seriously at the Diavel.Probably get one this year after the 2020 factory demos go on sale :-)
Did you get one ???
I rode a 114 fat bob and hated it. , riding the Diavel soon to see how it goes.
I traded my Fat Bob for the Diavel. :D
@HahrtDood The FB comes with forwards. The Diavel is more comfortable and the performance is not even in the same ballpark.
It should have been Duc XDiavel instead of Duc Diavel in this comparo (agree it is
borderline streetfighter & cruiser). And next year you can include the new Triumph Rocket III as well. Now when will Indian join the Power Cruiser bandwagon?...
Guys lets face it its like comparing a old school muscle car to amodern sportscar you cant reallly do that. There is plenty of people out there that will always preffer this roughness of harleys over the performance aspect. Otherwise we would all ride supersports
Which is most practice Harley Davidson bike?
The one you don’t have
The FXDR is absurd. HD says it's “a drag bike and all about performance”, yet they put a low-hp air-cooled cruiser engine and forward controls in it? It has the speed-demon body style but puts out 90 hp? C'mon HD...if you want to make a drag race bike, then make a drag race bike. What we have instead is normal torquey-yet-slow HD cruiser in a sport bike costume. It’s stupid. The Fat Bob's cool though.