Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition

Ducati will show the result of their partnership with AMG - the Diavel AMG Special Edition - at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week. (SEPTEMBER 15-25)

The flagship model is based on the Diavel Carbon and features AMG's signature five-spoke wheels, carbon-fibre lateral radiator grills with aluminium trim, AMG sports exhaust system with engraved end-caps and AMG horizontally ribbed seat upholstery.

Every Desmodromic L-twin 120kW 1198cc engine has hand-set cam-timing authenticated with the name of the engine technician engraved on the left engine casing. Each bike will also have a numbered plaque on the fuel tank.

It is dressed in matte black carbon fibre bodywork with an AMG "Diamond White Bright" stripe and frame. "AMG" is also laser-engraved into the air-duct panels either side of the fuel tank.

Production begins next year and orders are now open. Ducati Australia marketing co-ordinator Marina Strbac cannot confirm how many will be produced, how many will be allocated for Australia or the price. However, it is expected to cost more than $30,000 and will include a special edition leather jacket and helmet.

Strbac says the Diavel Standard ($23,490) and Carbon ($28,990) are selling "above target" and winning conquests from Harley-Davidson. "At the New Zealand Speed Show in July we had a lot of Harley riders jumping on it because it's so light and comfortable," she says. But that's not what we're after - trying to win over customers from other brands."

"We're also looking for people who haven't had bikes for a long time. You are also correct to assume that some buyers are Ducati owners who want a second bike. Due to the Diavel filling a gap in the cruiser market there is a vast mix in our buyer demographic."

Strbac says 60 per cent of Diavel buyers are opting for the more expensive Carbon.