New Ducati Panigale V4 R revealed

Limitations put on motorcycle manufacturers due to the strict Euro 5 emissions rules means that, in its standard form, the new 998cc Desmosedici Stradale R engine actually is a reduction in performance from the previous iteration. A maximum power output of 218PS (160kW) at 15,500rpm is 15PS lower than before, but can be uprated to its full potential of 237PS (174kW) when fitted with a racing exhaust.

The total power output can be extended further still to an eye-opening 240PS (177kW) with the use of a special dedicated oil, developed by Ducati Corse and Shell. Reducing mechanical friction by 10%, the oil is inspired by the racing-type additives seen in MotoGP and World Superbike engines equipped with dry clutches.

Showing off its racing pedigree, the 2023 Panigale V4 R operates with the same gear ratios used by the bikes competing in the World Superbike Championship, while the pistons within the Desmosedici Stradale R have a Diamond Like Carbon surface treatment as seen in both MotoGP and Formula 1. The treatment, which reduces both friction and weight, is seen in a road bike engine for the first time.

With a mountain of power at their disposal, riders will have more control than on previous editions of the Panigale V4 R via two new engine modes - ‘Full’ and ‘Low’. Low Power Mode is created for greater suitability on the roads, dropping power output to just 160PS (118kW). Full Power Mode, on the other hand, unleashes the full, untamed, potential of the Desmosedici Stradale R with electronic aids only working in first gear.

The electronic dashboard now provides more effective information, with the MotoGP-developed Track Evo first seen on the Panigale V4 S adopted, as well as the new Info Mode. There is also the option to add the Ducati Performance DTC EVO 3 software which allows the rear position light to be switched to a flashing mode, and replaces Street Riding Mode with Rain Mode specifically designed for competing on a wet surface. It also renders the bike illegal for road usage, so can only be purchased by those looking to keep their Panigale V4 R solely on the track.

The Ducati Quick Shift system has been refined to provide fluid gear changes, no matter if the throttle is wide or partially opened. Meanwhile, the Engine Brake Control Evo 2 system is adopted, electronically managing engine braking and featuring a different gear-by-gear calibration at three levels.

Ohlins once again provides the suspension for a Panigale V4 R, although this time offers 5mm more travel than on the previous model. When combined with alterations to the shock absorbers, this raises the ride height by 20mm and provides a higher centre of gravity, while the rear shock has also seen a reduction in stiffness from 105N/mm to 80N/mm. Ducati claims the changes made to the suspension will result in improvements to both stability and nimbleness.

In line with its racing feel, the aerodynamic package has been upgraded and a realignment of the extractor vents now fits within the regulations laid down in the World Superbike Championship. New winglets have also been added, which Ducati say offer the same aerodynamic load but at just half the thickness and 40% of the size.

If you hadn’t yet realised that this was very much a road-going race bike, the new livery should help make that connection, with the traditional Ducati red complemented by a bold number one on a white number plate evoking memories of Carl Fogarty’s dominance with the Italian brand­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­. Or perhaps it’s tempting fate and celebrating a first world title for Bautista on the V4 R later this year.