Ducati’s new Panigale V4 R: racing DNA, road-legal prowess

Ducati has introduced the latest Panigale V4 R, a homologated superbike designed to comply with WorldSBK regulations while incorporating technical solutions derived from its racing programme.

Engine and Performance

At the centre of the Panigale V4 R is the 998 cc Desmosedici Stradale R engine. In road-legal specification it produces 208.4 hp at 13,250 rpm and 111.3 Nm of torque at 11,500 rpm.

With the addition of the full racing exhaust system and dedicated Shell oil (for track use only), Ducati states maximum output rises to 239 hp at 15,500 rpm.

The engine retains the counter-rotating crankshaft and desmodromic timing system from the MotoGP-derived Desmosedici Stradale family, with a shorter stroke to meet Superbike displacement limits.

Chassis and Suspension

The bike weighs 186.5 kg without fuel. It uses Ducati’s Front Frame with reduced lateral stiffness (40 percent less than the previous generation) to improve feedback at the limit.

A hollow symmetrical aluminium swingarm is fitted, designed to optimise stability under acceleration.

Suspension is supplied by Öhlins and is fully mechanical:

• 43 mm NPX25/30 fork with pressurised damping system

• TTX36 rear shock with adjustable tie-rod for ride height

This configuration is chosen for predictable behaviour in racing conditions, as opposed to semi-active systems.

Aerodynamics

The Panigale V4 R introduces corner sidepods, a first on a production sports bike. These generate downforce when the motorcycle is leaned, stabilising the bike at high cornering speeds.

Redesigned winglets provide 25 percent more vertical load than the previous model, improving stability during braking and acceleration.

Gearbox and Electronics

The Ducati Racing Gearbox (DRG) places neutral below first gear, mirroring racing motorcycles. It is paired with Ducati Neutral Lock (DNL), a system that prevents accidental engagement of neutral during downshifts, which can be disengaged by the rider.

The electronic suite includes:

• Cornering ABS

• Ducati Traction Control (DTC)

• Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC)

• Slide Control

• Engine Brake Control EVO (EBC EVO)

• Race Brake Control (RBC)

These are governed by the latest software updates, including the Ducati Vehicle Observer algorithm, which fine-tunes interventions based on riding conditions.

Position in the Range

The Panigale V4 R is the homologation model that underpins Ducati’s WorldSBK entry. It sits above the Panigale V4 and V4 S, with limited production and numbered series identification.

In the United States, the bike is priced at USD 49,995 excluding fees and taxes.

Summary

The Ducati Panigale V4 R is a homologation-special motorcycle developed to transfer racing technology into a production model. It combines the 998 cc Desmosedici Stradale R engine, race-focused chassis, advanced aerodynamics, and a comprehensive electronics package. While road-legal in standard form, its full performance is intended for track use.