Verdict
Verdict
All too quickly, the day is done. And I'm done too – but properly swimming in context for this bike. Fair play to Ducati. The firm’s made what must be a hard change for it, and done it incredibly well. Bologna and twins go together like Ingolstadt and Quattro, or Munich and Boxers. The engineers had got to the end of that road though and, amazing though the 1299 Panigale had become, there's a limit to how big you can make a V-twin in search of four-cylinder power. Now, though, they have an all-new canvas to work on, with masses of potential and development headroom well into the 2020s.
Okay – it's an expensive, super-premium product, so you'd expect it to be good. But unlike that motorway services coffee, or the silly overpriced food in a posh restaurant, you really do get something incredible for your cash. The new Panigale V4 is at another level in terms of superbike performance, and I'm really keen to see what it's like back-to-back with the current class heroes…
Specifications
Model tested: Ducati Panigale V4 S
Engine: 16v desmodromic 90° V-four, DOHC, liquid cooled, 1,103cc
Bore x stroke: 81x53.5
Compression ratio: 14:1
Power: 214hp@13,000rpm
Torque: 91.5ft lb@10,000rpm
Transmission: six speed, slipper clutch, chain drive
Frame: cast aluminium front subframe, engine as stressed member
Front suspension: 43mm NIX30 Ohlins forks, electronically controlled
Rear suspension: TTX36 Ohlins monoshock, electronically controlled
Brakes: Dual 330mm discs, four-piston Brembo Stylema calipers (front), 245mm disc, twin-piston caliper (rear), Bosch cornering ABS
Wheels/tyres: Forged aluminium/Pirelli Super Corsa SP, 120/70 17 front, 200/60 17 rear
Rake/trail: 24.5°/100mm
Wheel-base: 1,469mm
Kerb weight: 195kg, (174kg dry)
Fuel capacity: 16 litres
Rider aids: Cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, electronic suspension (on S), engine brake control, up/down quickshifter.
