2021 Ducati XDiavel Dark and Black Star First Look Preview

Ducati is updating its XDiavel line in 2021 with the new XDiavel Dark and XDiavel Black Star. The changes are minimal, with the Dark set to serve as the base model of the XDiavel line, starting at $19,995. The XDiavel Black Star will be the more premium option in the same league as the XDiavel S, which lists at $24,695.

All three machines in the XDiavel family will be Euro 5 compliant in 2021. This was achieved by redesigning the exhaust layout and remapping the 1262 Testastretta V-twin. A nice side effect of these updates is there will be 8 more horsepower available as a result.

Beyond that, changes are mainly aesthetic. The Dark, as its name suggests, is blacked out from head to toe. Ducati wanted to present a refined, minimalist look for this model with some aggressive appeal.

The Black Star is a bit more visually interesting, with a two-tone black and gray tank accented by a red line. The touch of red is also incorporated on the cylinder head covers. Ducati wanted to evoke a racier feel with this look, explaining that it drew inspiration from the world of sports cars.

It’s also packing the upgraded Brembo M50 braking package used on the XDiavel S, as well as the DLC treated fork. Creature comforts such as the Ducati Infotainment System and daytime running lights will be standard on the Black Star and S models as well.

All three XDiavel models will have a fairly robust offering of safety systems and electronics, including three ride modes, cornering ABS, traction control, cruise control, Ducati Power Launch functionality, and backlit handlebar switches. All three carry a 3.5-inch TFT display.

And finally, the Black Star will come with forged light alloy rims, which provide a slight weight savings (close to 5 pounds) over the S model.