Ducati has undertaken a full redesign of its Panigale V4, using tech and experience from Ducati Corse racing. Chasing improved performance, Ducati’s chief, Claudio Domenicali, released the bike during World Ducati Week.
The new Panigale V4 is akin to what WSBK racers ride, and it uses tech derived from MotoGP. The V4 S model weighs 187kg, 2kg less than the previous model, and is slightly more powerful despite meeting EuroV emissions regulations. It is also quicker on track, as tested by a range of riders with different skill levels.
Ducati has developed integrated aerodynamic design. The new fairing reduces aerodynamic resistance by four per cent and protects the rider more effectively within a bubble of calm air. Despite new winglets, downforce is unchanged compared with the previous model. Repositioning the fairing makes the bike nimbler when changing direction and cooling also improves.
The 916 provided styling inspiration, evident in the front light cluster and double V shaped DRLs. Its air intake is now a single central hidden duct.
The riding position ensures maximum integration of the rider into the aerodynamics of the motorcycle, and improved control on track. There’s said to be greater roominess, with more longitudinal movement possible, and better rider support during heavy braking. Footrests move 10mm inwards, increasing ground clearance and aerodynamic penetration.
The 90° V4 engine features higher lift cams and has a counter-rotating crankshaft and Twin Pulse timing, so it sounds like the Desmosedici GP race bike. Variable intake tracts are longer and shorter at their extremes. Output is now 216hp (161kW) and 123Nm of torque. An Akra exhaust hikes that to 228hp.
Aiding track speed are chassis mods. The Front Frame has been modified and a new double-sided swingarm developed. The latter reduces lateral stiffness compared with the previous single-sided swingarm, along with weight. The result is improved traction when exiting corners and the rider’s feeling during acceleration. The rear rim is lighter too, even more so on the V4 S with forged aluminium alloy wheels.
The Front Frame is lighter by half a kg and has 40 per cent less lateral stiffness. That translates to more confidence when leaning, and it is said to be easier to apex and exit the turns. New Ohlins suspension broadens the range of adjustments, offering more comfortable settings for road use. Greater speed of the hydraulic valves evidently offers a better response in every riding situations.
Also new are the brakes, featuring Brembo Hypure front brake callipers. Lighter and better performing, they also disperse braking heat more effectively, offering better performance on the limit.
A new feature is Race eCBS, with various rear brake strategies. For example, the system continues to activate the rear brake even after releasing the front brake when entering a corner.
Another innovation is Vehicle Observer (DVO) that refines the electronic control strategies, optimising riding performance via the IMU.
The dashboard is new, for enhanced readability. There’s also a track display that includes a g-meter, power and torque readings, and lean angle. It shows lap times with splits too.
For road use there’s a central tacho with gear indicator within. Upon returning to the pits, a new data acquisition system allows in-depth analysis for improving performance.
The new Panigale V4 comes standard in single-seater configuration but a passenger kit is optionally available. Deliveries begin in Q3 of this year.
