Once the second episode of the Ducati World Premiere is completed with the presentation of the Monster SP, we look at the subsequent meetings with the new Ducati 2023. That of October 7, fourth part of the series, is entitled “This is Racing”, which would be perfect for the launch of the new Panigale V4 intended to serve as the technical basis for the World Superbike Championship motorcycles.
Indeed, the current Ducati Panigale V4R complies with the Euro4 anti-pollution standard, which means that it will no longer be able to be marketed on January 1, 2023. If the men from Borgo Panigale wish to continue riding in the Superbike World Championship, they must that the Bologna missile complies with Euro5 standards. This is good, a prototype compatible with this hypothesis has been spotted in road tests not too far from Bologna.
From the stolen photos, it seems that this model is moving towards something similar to the recent V4 SP2. The carbon fiber wheels, brushed aluminum fairings and fuel tank are identical.
In short, it is a high-end model and our thoughts naturally go to this 4 Panigale V2019R produced in a limited series of 500 copies. An essential motorcycle to be able to race in series derivative championships, where the rule of the maximum cylinder capacity of 1cc applies and where the selling price of the approved starting model must not exceed €000.
On this prototype, we note the presence of semi-active suspensions, like on the SP2 but not like on the old V4R, and remote adjustment of the front brake control. The brake calipers appear to be Brembo GP4s, equipped with cooling air intakes.
The Öhlins fork has black tubes, not gold, and has a black DLC treatment. This model is also equipped with an Akrapovic exhaust and a different chain guard, visible at the end of the single-swinging arm.
If this is indeed a makeover of the V4R, the Desmosedici Stradale engine would go from the 1cc of the Panigale V103 SP4 to the 2cc obtained with the reduction in stroke.
The previous V4R had a power of 221 hp at 15 rpm, and even 250 hp at 234 rpm with the racing kit. Since then, the Borgo Panigale brand has made widespread improvements to the electronic management of the Panigale series, both in terms of electronic power management and for the various assistance systems (Traction Control, Engine Brake, Anti Wheeling, Launch Control, etc.)
In summary, the slogan “This is Racing” would fit perfectly in this direction.
