Ducati unveiled the all-new Panigale V4 R belting out a whopping 250 hp in track set-up.
The Bologna maker has stepped up its game by updating the Panigale V4 R, which now, with a few modifications, produces the advertised 240 hp. The scarlet beast’s beating heart is a brand-new 998 cc Desmosedici Stradale R motor that can rev up to 16,500 rpm in sixth gear and produce 218 horsepower at 15,500 rpm. However, the new engine provides marginally lower performance than the previous version due to the limitation caused by the exhaust system conforming to the stringent Euro-5 homologation. The addition of the race exhaust (Akrapovic titanium full exhaust system with double under-seat silencer) increases the maximum horsepower to 237 hp, an increase of 3.0 hp over the previous model. Using Shell’s specially formulated performance oil boosts horsepower by 3.5 thanks to a 10% reduction in engine friction.
The new Panigale V4 R uses gun-drilled titanium connecting rods and pistons, similar to those used at MotoGP and WSBK, to increase lubrication and, in turn, component reliability. In addition to the super light clutch and redesigned intake cam profile, WSBK gear ratios were adopted for the new Desmosedici Stradale R.
The new Panigale V4 R has Öhlins TTX36 shock absorber in the back and Öhlins NPX25/30 pressurized fork up front with more travel. The height of the rear swingarm pivot is adjustable which improves the stability at high speed cornering especially coming out of the corners.
The Superbike features a brushed aluminum fuel tank that improves the ergonomics of the vehicle by providing the rider with adequate support for their arms and legs when braking and cornering. The Superbike’s aerodynamic performance is improved by the use of two element wings.
Stopping power is the duty of Brembo as usual for any Ducati’s. Monobloc Stylema M4.30 calipers at the front on 330mm discs, with a 245mm rotor and 2-pot caliper at the back. Bosch cornering ABS is standard.
The updated electronics suite consists of six-axis IMU feeding info to computers controlling the cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control EVO 3, Ducati Slide Control, Ducati Wheelie Control EVO, Ducati Power Launch, Ducati Quick Shift up/down EVO 2, and Engine Brake Control EVO 2.
Tech Highlights
- 998cc, Desmosedici Stradale 90° V4 engine
- 218 hp @ 15,500 rpm
- 82.6ft lbs @ 12,000rpm
- 6 speed, Ducati QuickShift up/down EVO 2 transmission
- 35.3 mpg / 8 l/100km consumption
- Aluminium alloy frame
- Fully adjustable 43 mm Öhlins NPX 25/30 pressurized fork
- Fully adjustable Ohlins TTX 36 with hydraulic spring preload adjuster
- Brembo Monobloc Stylema M4.30. 4-piston calipers with Bosch Cornering ABS EVO
- 245 mm disc, 2-piston caliper with Bosch Cornering ABS EVO
- 3-spoke forged aluminium alloy, 120/70 ZR17 front wheel
- 3-spoke forged aluminium alloy, 200/60 ZR17 rear wheel
