Ducati achieved a real masterstroke by presenting its all-new Panigale V4 S during World Ducati Week on the Misano circuit. But instead of making a static presentation as is generally the case at EICMA, or even a dynamic presentation with tests by journalists, the Borgo Panigale firm entrusted its new emblematic model to all its leading drivers defending its colors in international competitions, MotoGP and Superbike through the Italian and British championships. Simple, effective, well done!
So, Francis Bagnaia (reigning MotoGP world champion), Enea Bastianini, Alvaro Bautista (reigning WorldSBK world champion), Nicholas Bulega (reigning WorldSSP world champion), Marco Bezzecchi, Fabio Di Giannantonio, Andrea Iannone, Álex Márquez, Marc Márquez, Jorge Martín, Franco Morbidelli, Danilo Petrucci, Michele Pirro, Michael Ruben Rinaldi and Glenn Irwin participated in the Lenovo Race of Champions, the highlight of World Ducati Week, with clearly improved performances aboard these lightly prepared Panigales (tires, brake discs, calipers and exhaust, all available in the Ducati parts catalog ).
The best timeAndrea Iannone, in 1'35.051, speaks for itself, George Martin having achieved MotoGP pole position last year in 1'30.390, Alvaro Bautista doing the same in 1'33.017 in Superbike.
According to Claudio Domenicali, a whole second has been gained compared to the old model, and according to Marc Marquez another second could have been taken if the riders had had more time to adjust their bikes to their liking. We are here at a very, very high level!
Now let's see what we're talking about...
New Ducati Panigale V4: an engineering marvel
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- The new Panigale V4 improves the weight/power ratio, bringing it to 1:15 hp/Kg thanks to weight reduction and a powerful engine to guarantee great emotions and adrenaline
- Faster on the track, more fun and less tiring for riders of all levels, from amateur to professional.
- Aerodynamics and performance guided the Centro Stile Ducati in the creation of the new design, characterized by sensual and unmistakable lines.
- Technologies derived from MotoGP at the service of every enthusiast so that they can experience the driving sensations of professional riders.
Misano Adriatico (Rimini, Italy), July 25, 2024 – With the new Panigale V4, Ducati pushes the limits of super sports road motorcycles even further. Born from a profound evolution of the motorcycle that won the Superbike World Championship for two consecutive years, the new Panigale V4 has been completely redesigned in terms of design, technical base and ergonomics. A development that takes full advantage of the advantages arising from the evolution of tires, aerodynamics and electronics, also thanks to the experience of Ducati Corse.
The incessant search for performance, typical of the world of competition, has also profoundly influenced the evolution of motorcycle design. Indeed, on the new Panigale V4, style and technology are perfectly merged and aim to improve performance. A motorcycle that arouses wonder at first glance, a magical and irrational sensation that increases when you climb into the saddle thanks to the technical solutions designed by Ducati engineers.
A true technical marvel.
“Ducati's mission is to enrich people's lives through technologically sophisticated motorcycles characterized by sensual beauty”, said Claudio Domenicali during the presentation of the bike during the Ducati World Première. “Few motorcycles like the new Panigale V4, the seventh generation of Ducati Superbike, accomplish this mission. A motorcycle that continues a story of success and unforgettable models, and which represents the maximum expression of our values of Style, Sophistication and Performance.”
The new Panigale V4 is a motorcycle that allows those who ride it to experience the sensations of a professional rider thanks to electronic solutions and unprecedented technologies, largely derived from MotoGP. Solutions such as the V4 engine with desmodromic distribution and counter-rotating shaft, or the chassis and electronics even closer to those of the official Desmosedici GP. A motorcycle capable of amplifying the riding abilities of its rider, whether professional or amateur, by offering him the confidence that allows him to push his limits on the circuit.
A Panigale V4 that follows the evolutionary path traced by Ducati in MotoGP competition, where the Desmosedici has become the most desired motorcycle in the category, with which, in 2023, seven out of eight riders have been able to win at least one race.
The new Panigale V4 S weighs only 187 kg, two less than the previous model, and gains 0,5 hp despite the more restrictive Euro5+ approval**. The technological innovations with which it is equipped, combined with these improvements, allowed a panel of drivers of different levels – from fast amateurs to professional drivers – to lower their best time by a whole second during a comparative test carried out on the Cremona circuit.
Integrated aerodynamic design
With the arrival of the seventh generation of Ducati sports motorcycles, from 851 to today, the development of the Ducati superbike marks an important turning point. From the previous approach, based on an aerodynamic package applied to a motorcycle with an already complete design, Ducati has moved to a working method of aerodynamic design and integrated design, through a global vision in which the aerodynamic profiles fit perfectly to the lines of the motorcycle.
The new fairing reduces aerodynamic resistance by 4% and protects the rider more effectively in a straight line, keeping him in a sort of “bubble” of calm air. The high-efficiency dual-profile fenders integrate seamlessly with the shapes of the front, keeping the load-bearing force contribution unchanged from the previous model. The setback of the leading edge of the fairing relative to the front wheel makes the motorcycle more agile when changing direction at high speeds, while the improved shape of the mudguard and the conveyor upstream of the radiators increases the efficiency of the cooling system, particularly the oil radiator.
To design the new Panigale V4, Centro Stile Ducati was inspired by the legendary Ducati 916. The designers' objective was to take inspiration from the iconic motorcycle of the Borgo Panigale company and to integrate the ergonomic and aerodynamic solutions of the Desmosedici GP, necessary to satisfy the current driving style on the track. The side view of the new Panigale V4 regains the balance between the front and rear typical of the 916, with a more horizontal general outline and closer to that of the MotoGP motorcycles of recent years. The inimitable line of the 916 also inspired the design of the front light unit, whose assertive appearance is underlined by the double V-shaped DRL, typical of Borgo Panigale sports motorcycles. Finally, the air intake is now single and central, hidden under the fairing, while the rear, wider and longer, increases space for the rider.
Ergonomics
The riding position of the new Panigale V4 has been developed with the dual objective of guaranteeing maximum integration of the rider into the aerodynamics of the motorcycle and improving vehicle control in the most important phases of track driving. The saddle-tank assembly, thanks to greater habitability, offers greater freedom of longitudinal movement and facilitates positioning in the fairing, in particular thanks to a deep recess in the upper part which avoids interference with the chin guard of the helmet.
At the same time, the rear area of the tank, combined with the side covers and the shape of the saddle, better supports the rider during braking, entry and cornering phases, without limiting body movements in other phases. The rider finds it easier to anchor himself with the knees to counteract deceleration and to lean out of the saddle when the motorcycle takes a turn, thereby reducing strain on the arms and therefore overall fatigue. The footrests have been moved 10mm inboard compared to the current Panigale V4, increasing ground clearance and, by allowing the rider to position their feet and legs further inboard, improving aerodynamic penetration.
Competition-derived engine
The Panigale V4, more powerful and lighter than the previous model, was created to offer enthusiasts unparalleled sensations. Its engine, the Desmosedici Stradale, is strictly derived from that of the Ducati MotoGP motorcycle, with which it shares many technical solutions, starting with the architecture. It is a 4° V90 with desmodromic distribution, counter-rotating shaft and Twin Pulse timing, which gives the Panigale V4 a sound completely similar to that of the Desmosedici GP.
On the Desmosedici Stradale of the new Panigale V4, the distribution pattern has been revised, with cams with a different profile and greater lift. The alternator and oil pump are the same as those fitted to the Panigale V4 R, while the gearbox drum is that used on the Superleggera V4. Variable length intake horns have a greater excursion, with a value of 25 mm in the short configuration (-10 mm) and 80 in the long configuration (+5 mm).
The Desmosedici Stradale engine, Euro5+ approved, develops 216 hp at 13 rpm and a maximum torque of 500 Kgm at 12,3 rpm**. Values which increase in track configuration: by adopting Akrapovič's Ducati Performance racing exhaust, the maximum power increases to 11 hp.
MotoGP-derived chassis
The Panigale V4 has always been the road super sports car closest to a MotoGP. In 2022, Francesco Bagnaia recorded a best time of 1m35,8s during the Lenovo Race of Champions, an IGF-approved competition, on the asphalt of Misano. A time less than 4 seconds from the absolute MotoGP race record: 1m31.8s, established by Francesco Bagnaia himself on his Ducati Desmosedici GP.
To make the Panigale V4 even more competitive, Ducati Corse requested new stiffness targets for the frame and swingarm in order to be able to exploit the full potential of the new slick tires used in Superbike.
Ducati Corse engineers have defined the optimal lateral stiffness to maintain grip at lean angles of more than 60°, while maintaining high values of longitudinal stiffness to exploit the engine's torque during acceleration and braking power when braking.
For this purpose, the front frame was modified and a new double-sided swingarm – Ducati Hollow Symmetrical Swingarm – was developed; light and with an innovative design, thanks to a specific geometry, it has made it possible to maintain the position of the silencer under the engine, a unique solution in the global panorama of super sports road motorcycles. This solution confirms the Ducati approach, based on style, sophistication and performance, capable of overcoming the compromise between style and performance.
The new swingarm reduces lateral stiffness (-37% compared to the previous single-sided swingarm) and weight thanks to the two large lightening slots, which improves traction out of corners and rider feel when accelerating . The forged rear swingarm rim weighs 2,7 kg less than the previous one and is more efficient in transmitting power to the ground. On the Panigale V4 S, the forged aluminum alloy wheels with five tangential spokes, inspired by those of the Desmosedici GP, weigh only 2,95 and 4,15 kg respectively at the front and rear.
The front frame is lighter (3,47 kg compared to 4,2 previously) and has been remodeled in terms of rigidity compared to the previous model (-40% laterally). As a result, it provides even more confidence when banking and is more effective when it comes to taking the apex and closing the turn. The Panigale V4 S's third-generation electronically controlled Öhlins NPX/TTX suspensions expand their adjustment range, providing more comfortable settings for road use and more efficient when rolling between corners. a circuit. At the same time, the higher speed of the hydraulic valves provides more precise and accurate response in all driving situations.
The new Ducati Panigale V4 is the first motorcycle in the world equipped with Brembo HypureTM front brake calipers. Lighter (-60 grams per pair) and more efficient, Brembo HypureTM calipers more effectively disperse the heat generated by braking, offering more consistent performance, and therefore greater efficiency for the driver in the search for their own limits. Another important world first is the Race eCBS system, developed by Bosch in collaboration with Ducati. In the levels dedicated to use on the circuit, the latter can activate the rear brake according to strategies that reproduce the techniques of professional drivers and therefore experience the possibility of delaying the braking point on the track compared to the absence of the system . In particular, the system continues to activate the rear brake even after releasing the front brake when entering and cornering, as professionals manage to do using the handlebar control.
Ducati Vehicle Observer
The constant commitment to electronic innovation has led Ducati to develop the Vehicle Observer (DVO). The Ducati Vehicle Observer simulates the input of more than 70 sensors, thus refining electronic control strategies, which can achieve unprecedented efficiency in series production. The extreme precision of this functionality allows the controls to intervene in an almost predictive manner to quickly satisfy the pilot's requests in the search for maximum performance.
The DVO, developed by Ducati Corse in MotoGP, estimates the ground forces acting on the motorcycle and the loads it can support in different riding conditions, integrating information from the IMU inertial platform even more precisely.
The 4 Panigale V2025 is equipped with a comprehensive set of electronic controls: Ducati Traction Control DVO, Ducati Slide Control, Ducati Wheelie Control DVO, Ducati Power Launch DVO, Engine Brake Control and Ducati Quick Shift 2.0. The DQS 2.0 system uses a strategy based solely on the gear drum angular position sensor, allowing a shift rod to be used without microswitches and thus providing the rider with a more direct feel with reduced travel.
MotoGP dashboard
The dashboard is completely new. The 6,9-inch dimension with an 8:3 aspect ratio provides maximum readability without interfering with vision through the windshield in the faired position. The protective glass uses Optical Bonding technology to ensure optimal readability on a black background, even during the day.
On the new Panigale V4, the feeling of being on a Desmosedici GP is reinforced by the new Track display on the dashboard. The interface dedicated to use on the circuit is in fact designed to support the driver in his search for maximum performance. Thanks to the size and “wide” shape of the new dashboard, a series of new parameters can be displayed on one side of the screen:
“g-Meter”, which indicates in real time the value of lateral acceleration during tilting, and longitudinal acceleration during acceleration and braking.
“Power&Torque”, which displays the percentage of power and torque delivered at this moment compared to the maximum values available given the gear engaged.
“Lean Angle”, which displays instantaneous lean angles along with throttle opening level and brake pressure.
The Track Info Mode allows you to display chronological performances in real time. Taking advantage of the GPS system, the dashboard displays lap times and is capable of managing three splits, which can be set by the rider using the flash button during the first session. The dashboard displays the split times table, with T1, T2 or T3 icons indicating the performance achieved in that sector of the track using the same color codes – white, gray, orange, red – as those used in MotoGP .
The Road info mode is very refined, with great importance given to the circular tachometer, placed in the center and with the speed indicator inside. The left part of the screen is reserved for settings, the browser (if installed), the music player, smartphone management and heated grips of accessories, as well as the different functions available for each of them. between them. On the right side are the indications for speed, time, water temperature and cruise control, if activated. The dashboard dynamically changes the distribution of space, moving columns and redistributing areas, to provide maximum visibility to the functions you are currently using, such as the browser.
Back in the pits, the new DDL data acquisition system completes the official driver experience. The system, developed by 2D in collaboration with Ducati, records all the important parameters for driving from the Panigale CAN bus line, crossing them with a cutting-edge GPS system capable of drawing the trajectories traveled with great precision . The data can then be analyzed using external software with models and reports created by Ducati Corse, in order to perfect your performance on the track.
The new Panigale V4, offered in a single-seater configuration with a passenger kit available as an accessory*, will arrive in dealerships in September 2024.
Panigale V4 S
Colour
Ducati Red with Urban Gray frame, black rims and matte black front mudguard
Main standard equipment
Desmosedici Stradale engine, 1 cc
Maximum power of 216 hp at 13 rpm (500 hp at 209 rpm for the US market)
Maximum torque of 12,3 kgm at 11 rpm (250 Nm at 121,3 rpm for the US market)
Empty weight without fuel: 187 kg
“Front Frame” chassis
17 liter aluminum tank
Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES) 3.0
Öhlins NPX-30 fork with Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 control system
Öhlins TTX 36 shock absorber with Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 control system
Öhlins steering damper with Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 control system
Forged aluminum rims
Lithium battery
Braking system with Brembo HypureTM monoblock calipers
Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa V4 tires with 200/60 rear
Wings with biplane configuration and integrated design
Latest generation electronics package with 6-axis inertial measurement unit (6D IMU): Race eCBS with cornering functionality; Ducati Traction Control (DTC) DVO; Ducati Slide Control (DSC); Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) DVO; Ducati Power Launch (DPL) DVO; Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0; Engine Brake Control (EBC), Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO)
Buttons for quickly changing levels
New 6.9” full-TFT dashboard with 8:3 ratio
Driving modes (Race A, Race B, Sport, Road, Wet)
Full LED headlights with DRL and indicators integrated into the headlight*.
Single-seater configuration (passenger kit as an accessory)
Ready for Ducati Data Recorder (DDL) and Ducati Multimedia System (DMS)
Panigale V4
Colour
Ducati Red with Urban Gray frame and black rims
Standard equipment like the Panigale V4 S with the exception of:
Empty weight without fuel: 191 kg
43mm Showa Big Piston Fork (BPF), fully adjustable
Sachs monoshock, fully adjustable
Sachs steering damper
Five-spoke light alloy wheels
Lead acid battery
