From Streetfighter to Iron Man
We’re checking out the newest edition of the Panigale V4 which we think looks absolutely amazing with its sporty appeal and agile demeanor. We’ve always been avid fans of Ducati and this latest installment has us wide-mouthed with awe – and drooling like an infant. It’s easy on the eye, sexier than most sports bikes currently on the market and nobody would blame you for jumping on the Panigale and pretending you’re the Flash! This baby really is the full package, come take a look.
The 2020 version of the Panigale V4 boosts performance even further than before and takes track riding to the next level for amateurs and pros alike. There’s a new series of refinements that makes the bike easier to ride while also ensuring it still has ample handling and a sturdy kick right from the first tug of the throttle.
The latest edition also comes with an Aero Pack which provides enhanced airflow protection and improves overall vehicle stability on the road which seemed to enhance our confidence behind the handlebar even further. The unique thing about bikes like this is that all the parts are carefully made and integrated to create a system that works in unison as opposed to an engine on wheels designed to burn-up a straight line. What’s also cool is how the front frame can modify stiffness providing a better front-end ‘feel’ particularly at extreme lean angles.
In their mission to create the perfect Panigale Ducati and Ducati Corse engineers have crunched the feedback from customers all over the world and their analysis has led to a series of aerodynamic, chassis, electronic control and Ride by Wire mapping changes and refinements. This means we now have a bike with improvements all-round but what we really enjoy is the increased stabilityand turn-in speed that make the bike much easier to close corners. But wait, the good news doesn’t stop there. The Panigale V4 is an awesome base in its own right but there is also an S version that comes withÖhlins event-based electronic control which uses a second-generation Öhlins Smart EC (Electronic Control) system that exploits its full potential.
AT ITS CORE
The V engine
For Ducati, the V4 layout at 90° is the utmost expression of sportiness for a motorcycle engine. It is no coincidence that it is the same solution used in the MotoGP Desmosedici engines. The 90° V layout of the cylinders creates a natural balancing of first-order forces without the need to resort to a balance shaft to eliminate the vibrations that notoriously entail increases in weight and power absorption. In addition to this primary benefit, which is extremely important for the reliability and mechanical efficiency of an engine that reaches rotation speeds greater than 14,000 rpm, there are others that make the configuration chosen by Ducati the most technically refined.
Its compactness
Compared to a classic in-line four-cylinder, the lateral compactness of the V-engine allows greater centralization of the masses and makes it possible to limit the weight on the front end of the bike. Furthermore, the shorter crankshaft generates a smaller gyroscopic effect. All these aspects have a positive impact on the bike’s dynamics, helping to make it light and fast when changing directions. The large space available between the V of the cylinders made it possible to position the water pump and have a large volume airbox (12.8 liters) to allow the Desmosedici Stradale to breathe better.
Integration of engine and chassis
The optimal integration of engine and chassis is a fundamental concept behind every one of Ducati’s projects. That is why the Desmosedici Stradale was developed to be mounted and rotated backwards just like the Ducati MotoGP engines. This format optimizes weight distribution and shifts the swinging arm pivot forwards as much as possible. The Desmosedici Stradale was also designed to be a structural element of the frame. Connections to the main frame were added to the front of the upper casing and in the head of the rear bank. The engine block also acts as a connection for the rear suspension and swinging arm.
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WHERE THE MAGIC HAPPENS
The Aerodynamic package by Ducati Corse
Co-developed by Ducati Corse and the Ducati Style Center, the Panigale V4 MY2020 aerodynamics package now mirrors that of the Panigale V4 R so you can expect the level of precision and quality to be of the highest standard. The Panigale V4 aerodynamics package includes a Plexiglas screen, nose fairing and larger lateral fairings as well as more efficient lateral vents for the radiator through-air and aerofoils.
The Plexiglas screen
It’s higher and more angled to provide better airflow protection for the rider, especially in the helmet and upper shoulder areas. The screen works in unison with a new nose fairing that is higher and wider (+15 mm per side) in the arm-shield zone that is designed to reduce arm and shoulder-induced drag on the straights. The lateral fairings have been widened considerably (+38 mm per side) with the dual aim of reducing on-rider airflow impact and maximizing aerofoil efficiency. On the sides, the stylish air vents of the Panigale V4 have been replaced by more efficient ones that increase air through-speeds on water and oil radiators by 6% and 16%respectively.
The aerofoils
These babies take their cue from those on the GP16, designed before regulations led to restrictions on foil shapes. Consequently, the Panigale V4 aerofoils are even more efficient than those currently employed in MotoGP. These monoplane single-element foils have a trapezoidal layout and a profile that tapers from root to tip. Foil performance has been improved thanks to the insertion of the longitudinally arranged strake and the winglet which ‘insulates’ the airflow over its surfaces. To ensure the required strength and stiffness, Panigale V4 aerofoils are made of fiberglass-reinforced thermoplastic.
What this all means for the rider
Working in concert with the fairing design, the aerofoils increase overall downforce (+66lbs at 168mph). Greater downforce reduces both front-wheel ‘floating’ at high speed and the tendency to wheel-up while giving a boost to stability during braking at the turn-in point and through the corner. This dynamic behavior lets riders (against a small increase in steering torque that stems from the heightened stability) improve their riding efficiency as it reduces electronic control intervention, helping riders keep the throttle open longer and braking later, even when cornering has already begun.
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ALL THE EXTRA BITS
Complete titanium exhaust assembly
Made exclusively by Akrapovič with the Ducati experience, it is the most advanced racing assembly available on the market. Each section of the system is manufactured in a special titanium alloy that is both lightweight and resistant to high temperatures, allowing for an overall reduction in the bike’s weight. Once installed on the bike, the exhaust dramatically increases the already excellent weight-to-power ratioof the Panigale, for breathtaking accelerations and stretches. Thanks to its experience, Ducati Corse has developed the qualities of the motorcycle and exhaust to their maximum levels to create a perfect synergy, specifically for this exhaust, recalibrating the many and fundamental electronic aids: DTC, DWC, DPL and Slide on demand.
Dry clutch kit
Just like in MotoGP, where the only thing that matters is utmost performance, the dry clutch is made available for the other V4 models (it comes standard on the Panigale V4 R). This is an STM EVO-SBK clutch made from billet aluminum with housing and a 48-tooth plate pack. The plates are 9 driven and 9 lined with a diameter of 138 mm. When racing on the track there are important benefits in ease of handling. Specifically, the dry clutch ensures a more effective slipper function, even during the most aggressive downshifts, and greater fluidity during all “off-throttle” stages. In addition, the “mechanical” engine brake level can be customized by choosing a different secondary spring from those available in the catalog.
Other important advantages are the absence of resistance from the engine oil and cleaner oil since the plate wear dust is not conveyed into the lubrication circuit. The racing character of the dry clutch is an exciting added benefit for the most passionate Ducatistas and sports bike enthusiasts.
Magnesium rims
The unmatched lightweight performance of forged magnesium meets style – a signature 9-spoke design that combines class, high performance and weight saving. Be aware though, this set of rims is approved for single-seat use only.
The handgrips
Inspired by the racing world, these handgrips ensure an excellent grip in every riding situation and are built to avoid accidental slipping of the hand – and to reduce the vibrations felt.
Carbon tank cover
This is a splendid detail that embellishes the front of the new Panigale V4 tank in a way that only carbon fiber can. The finishing and lines of this accessory are perfectly integrated into the racing look of the latest bike made at Borgo Panigale.
Adjustable rider footpegs in aluminum
These are developed thanks to the experience of Ducati Corse and the skillful productive care of Rizoma. They’re made of a high-quality anodized aluminum alloy that maintains its original appearance over time. They are adjustable in six positions allowing the rider to find the position that best suits their build and riding style. These footpegs are also equipped with fold-away brake and gearchange pedals to minimize the risk of breakagein the event of a slip. They use the standard DQS, which can be configured both as a traditional shift and as a reversed/racing shift which makes them an essential accessory for the most demanding riders.
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DISPLACEMENT
1,103 cc
POWER
214 hp (157.5 kW) @ 13,000 rpm
TORQUE
91.5 lb-ft (124.0 Nm) @ 10,000 rpm
DRY WEIGHT
386 lb (175kg)