Milan show: Ducati Diavel latest

Just got back from Ducati's stand in hall 18 and it's swamped. People are literally scuffling to get a sit on the new Diavel. I managed to scuffle my way to the front and even though the handlebar grips were dripping with other people's excited hand secretions, it was a pleasant experience.

It's surprisingly light, rocking it from side to side. It looks like it should be heavier than it actually is, an illusion created by the visual bulk around the bike's frontal flanks. The flat-topped, wide tank and narrow, low seat really place you inside the bike. Nestling between those side-mounted radiators is the monumental 1198 Teststretta motor, tuned for a fatter mid-range.

I managed to collar David James, the company's International press officer (and also three times sidecar World Champion with Steve Webster) for a chat.

I asked him what he really wanted people to know about the new Diavel. 'First and foremost it's a Ducati through and through - even though it's a cruiser style bike it still handles, stops and goes like you'd expect a Ducati to,' he said.

He continued: 'It's amazing the strong reactions it's created though. Bikers are a secular bunch and we've had people who have been quite shocked - quite vocal - that we've entered this market but all I can say to the doubters is, just wait 'til you f***ing ride one.'

There's no point beating about the bush, is there?

By mark forsyth