Ducati Panigale V4 – First Look

 

So the big news in the motorcycle world this week is the unveiling of the Ducati Panigale V4, with a 1103cc Desmosedici V4 (yes, you guessed it!) motor, derived from MotoGP technology.

 

 

Replacing the outgoing 1299 V-twin Panigale, the new model has slightly tweaked fairings and frame, but is still instantly recognizable as an Italian thoroughbred. It is claimed to weigh 175kg dry, and the base model makes 214hp. Wait… Yes, two hundred and fourteen horsepower. In the base model! The top spec “Speciale” makes a whopping 226hp!

 

 

Full electronics are standard, including the Bosch six-axis inertial platform with integrated ABS, up and down Quickshifter, Ducati Slide Control, and Ducati Traction Control. Showa Big Piston Forks and Brembo brakes are standard, as is a Sachs steering damper. The middle-spec “S” gets Ohlins suspension, a lithium-ion battery, and forged aluminium wheels. “Speciale” gets a bunch of carbon-fibre parts, an Akropovic exhaust, and optional magnesium forged wheels.

 

 

The 90 degree V4 motor churns out a very healthy 122 Nm of torque, and features a counter-rotating crankshaft to reduce internal inertia, making the bike tip faster into corners, and (attempt to) reduce the front wheel going skywards. I think I’ll just have to put that theory to the test!

 

 

Prices haven’t been confirmed here yet, but UK prices have been announced as follows:

Base Model – £19,250

V4 “S” – £23,895

V4 “Speciale” – £34,995

(At the time of publication, the exchange rate is 1 British Pound = 1.90 New Zealand Dollar)

Hopefully a “Superleggera” model will be made, even lighter and more power, just in case the “Speciale” isn’t enough!

 

 

Due for release at “the start of 2018”, Ducati is definitely stamping it’s mark on the hyperbike market again, and it’s awesome to see technology born in MotoGP finding it’s way to the street. Now, how many of the 1500 Speciale’s do you think will find a home in good old New Zealand? Only time will tell. Orders are being accepted right now, if you’re keen!

 

 

 

– Scott

 

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