First showcased at the EICMA motor show in Milan 2011, the Diavel took all eyeballs for a trippy show. Long and low, with sleek and sexy lines, forward controls and a low seat height, this Bologna bruiser was something totally new from the Italian company known the world over for blending impeccable design and high-performance machines. Something like putting purists into a realm of more content and less bitter.

The bike always had a menacing outlook to it that was both handsome and evil at the same time. Rightfully it was quoted as ‘The Gentleman and The Bastard’. Now though, the Italians have upped the ante with a brand new 2019 Diavel built around the same exposed trellis chassis of the xDiavel. Don’t get too excited now, it’s just the spy shots under camouflage and a rendering is all that we have.

Codenamed '1309', The 2019 Diavel was apparently showcased to the masses under a closed roof in secrecy at the recently concluded World Ducati Week, where it gathered s a lot of interest with regards to new styling and electronic gimmickry. It is getting sportier and more aggressive, just like how the 2013 model was revamped.

Although it might seem similar, there are multiple subtle changes that see the Diavle making use of the Panigale swingarm, xDiavel borrowed license plate tire hugger with integrated indicators and a narrower rear profile that has the LED tail light mounted flush. The bike itself looks slimmer than the one it is replacing, thanks to the thin profile LED headlamp unit at the front. Full TFT dash will be Bluetooth enables for multimedia and GPS via a smartphone.

What sets the Diavel apart is the monstrous 1262cc L-twin motor with Ducati Variable Timing (DVT). Known as the Testastretta 11° Dual Spark, it is a direct development of the Ducati Corse engines that have won championships on racetracks across the globe. The 2019 Diavel will also be making use of the same mill that will punch out a little more than 150 horses.

Of course, the honchos will tune it slightly to give a much flatter and linear power output. Another notable difference from the other Diavels is the use of a typical chain assembly drive instead of the typical chain belt drive keeping authentic cruiser DNA. The large twin exhaust pods are replaced by a compact exhaust unit to maintain a well centrally balanced mass.

For 2019, Ducati will equip the Diavel with a bi-directional quickshifter, an updated high-performance Ride-by-Wire management system to give the engine smoother and manageable power surge as well as an auto-blipper clutch for seamless gear shifts.

Ducati will also probably launch two version of the bikes that will have different spec suspension setup and electronic rider aids. Others will include Ducati Power Launch (DPL), 3 riding modes, 8-way adjustable traction control (DTC) and Ducati’s Panigale-style IMU. Cornering ABS and Wheelie control might make its way through this time, although getting the Diavel to wheelie won’t be that easy in the first place.

Expect the full production model to take some space at the upcoming EICMA Milan motorcycle show as a 2019 model. Ducati will, obviously, pamper new rides with aftermarket accessories like panniers, a touring screen, and upright for the larger pillion seat.