The EICMA motorcycle show in Milan always brings exciting news, and this year, Ducati delivered their updated Panigale V2 and Streetfighter V2. These bikes are built on a fresh platform with a new engine designed to unify Ducati’s range while catering to diverse riding styles. While the Panigale V2 has long been a favorite for its sporty DNA, can the new iteration, with its compromises and improvements, uphold its legacy? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about these latest Ducati masterpieces.
Key Features Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 120-hp V2 engine replacing the Superquadro and Testastretta, with 93 Nm torque. |
| Weight | 176 kg wet (without fuel), 14 kg lighter than its predecessor. |
| Chassis | Aluminum monocoque frame integrating the airbox, weighing just 4 kg. |
| Suspension | Standard: Marzocchi fork and KYB shock; S Model: Öhlins NIX30 fork and Öhlins rear shock. |
| Wheels and Brakes | Lightweight cast aluminum wheels; Brembo M50 calipers with 320mm discs. |
| Technology | 5-inch TFT display, cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, quick-shifter, and engine braking control. |
| Price | Panigale V2: £14,995; Panigale V2S: £16,995; Streetfighter V2: £13,990; Streetfighter V2S: £15,990. |
| Tires | Pirelli Diablo Rosso 4, with options for slicks (190mm and 180mm). |
Engine: A Balanced Performer
At the heart of both the Panigale V2 and Streetfighter V2 lies Ducati’s new V2 engine, which replaces both the Testastretta and Superquadro engines. This unit aims to deliver flexibility across a variety of motorcycles, from adventure bikes to supersports. However, in combining these traits, the Ducati has made compromises, particularly in peak power.
The new engine produces 120 horsepower, a significant drop of 35 horsepower compared to the previous Superquadro-powered Panigale V2. However, it’s a step up from the outgoing Testastretta engine, which made 111 horsepower. The torque is more evenly spread across the rev range, peaking at 93 Nm, ensuring a road-friendly and versatile performance.
For enthusiasts looking for a racier experience, Ducati offers a track-only race exhaust, which bumps the power up by 6 horsepower and reduces the bike’s weight by 4.5 kilograms. Additionally, Ducati eliminated the Desmodromic valve system, promising reduced maintenance costs and extended service intervals. With a 9-kilogram weight reduction from the Superquadro and 6 kilograms from the Testastretta, the engine also contributes significantly to the bike’s overall lightness.
Chassis: Lightweight and Advanced
Ducati’s innovation extends to the chassis, with a lightweight aluminum monocoque frame that integrates the airbox. Weighing just 4 kilograms, this frame design reduces the bike’s overall size and enhances manageability, particularly on the road. Riders who found the Panigale V4 intimidating will appreciate the V2’s compact stature.
The wet weight (without fuel) is just 176 kilograms, a massive 14-kilogram reduction compared to the outgoing Panigale V2. While this doesn’t completely offset the loss in power when comparing power-to-weight ratios, the weight reduction should enhance handling and cornering, making it a nimble performer on the track and the street.
Suspension and Swingarm: High-End Options
Both the Panigale V2 and Streetfighter V2 offer two specification levels: the standard model and the S model. The standard bike comes equipped with a 43-mm Marzocchi fork and a KYB shock, while the S model steps up to fully adjustable Öhlins suspension. The S model features the NIX30 fork with a titanium nitride coating for reduced friction and a piggyback reservoir-equipped Öhlins shock. The S suspension setup ensures precise handling and a plush ride, making it worth the extra investment for those who value performance.
Both bikes feature a double-sided swingarm, designed for stability and grip. The design is inspired by the Panigale V4 and aims to enhance cornering precision and overall handling. An optional Öhlins steering damper is available, even on the S model, for those who want additional front-end stability.
Wheels and Brakes: Precision Engineering
Ducati didn’t skimp on the finer details, particularly when it comes to wheels and brakes. The cast aluminum wheels are a kilogram lighter than the previous generation, reducing unsprung and rotational mass for improved agility. The bike comes standard with Pirelli Diablo Rosso 4 tires, perfect for sporty road use, though it’s homologated for slicks for those looking to push the limits on the track. Riders can opt for either 190mm or 180mm rear tires, catering to personal preferences or competitive needs.
Braking duties are handled by Brembo M50 calipers, paired with 320mm discs for precise stopping power. Despite looking similar to the previous M4.32 calipers, the new setup saves 140 grams per caliper, contributing to the bike’s overall weight reduction. A Brembo radial master cylinder ensures a responsive and crisp feel at the lever.
Rider Ergonomics: Comfort Meets Sportiness
The Panigale V2 maintains its sporty character with a seat height of 837mm, providing ample ground clearance for aggressive cornering. The rider triangle strikes a balance between comfort and performance, with handlebars positioned slightly higher and foot pegs not overly rear-set. This ensures a comfortable riding posture, even during extended sessions on the road or track.
The tank design has been reshaped to improve grip during track use, taking cues from the Panigale V4. For those seeking a more upright riding experience, the Streetfighter V2 offers a flatter handlebar and relaxed ergonomics, making it the better choice for everyday comfort.
Tech and Electronics: Packed with Features
The cockpit features Ducati’s latest 5-inch full-color TFT display, which integrates all indicator lights except the shift light into the screen, creating a clean and modern look. The intuitive layout offers customizable views, including road and track modes. Riders can also access navigation and media controls via the connectivity package, syncing their phones for added convenience.
The electronics suite includes cornering ABS, traction control, Ducati Wheelie Control, a quick-shifter, and engine braking control. The system is highly configurable, allowing riders to tailor the bike’s behavior to their preferences. The new switchgear with a directional pad simplifies navigation through the settings and rider modes.
Styling: Classic Ducati Design
Ducati is known for its iconic styling, and the Panigale V2 doesn’t disappoint. Its sleek red fairing, dual-sided swingarm, and under-seat exhaust combine to create a visually stunning package. The exposed Öhlins components on the S model add a touch of premium elegance, while the optional Termignoni exhausts provide an aesthetic and auditory upgrade.
The Streetfighter V2, with its naked styling and minimalist approach, offers an alternative for those who prioritize everyday usability while still enjoying high performance.
Pricing and Value
The Panigale V2 starts at £14,995, while the S model is priced at £16,995, maintaining parity with the previous generation despite the updates. The Streetfighter V2 offers a slightly more affordable option, starting at £13,990, with the S model priced at £15,990. While these bikes sit at the premium end of the market, they deliver cutting-edge technology and performance, justifying their price tags.
Final Thoughts: A Strong Evolution
Ducati’s Panigale V2 and Streetfighter V2 represent a thoughtful evolution of their respective lineups. While the reduced power might deter purists, the weight savings, improved handling, and extensive tech package make these bikes formidable contenders in their segments. The choice between the Panigale’s track-focused nature and the Streetfighter’s everyday usability ensures there’s something for every type of rider. Whether on the road or the track, these bikes deliver an exhilarating experience worthy of the Ducati badge.