Ducati has introduced the new Panigale V4R, the most fierce, capable and extreme model in this lineup. The Italian motorcycle brand has taken things to the next level with this model by implementing technical solutions previously reserved for MotoGP and Superbike.
The new Ducati Panigale V4 R is recognizable at first glance thanks to the presence of carbon wings and MotoGP-inspired livery, which integrates the white plates with the number “1” in evidence. For the first time, the bike will be produced in a numbered series with the progressive number and model name shown on the billet aluminium steering.
The heart of the Panigale V4 R is the new 998 cc Desmosedici Stradale R, an engine capable of reaching a maximum engine speed of 16,500 rpm in sixth gear (16,000 in the other ratios) and delivering a maximum power of 218 hp at 15,500 rpm. The full potential of this engine, however, is expressed on the track by fitting the racing exhaust, which allows it to reach 237 hp, 3 hp more than the predecessor.
The engine development of the new Panigale V4 R also involved the production of a special oil developed by Shell in collaboration with Ducati Corse. The new performance oil guarantees a 10% reduction in mechanical friction and leads to an increase in maximum power of a further 3.5 hp, which rises to +4.5 hp at the limiter. With the combination of racing exhaust and dedicated oil, the maximum power output of the Panigale V4 R can therefore reach an extraordinary 240.5 hp.
These numbers are possible thanks to the adoption of sophisticated technical solutions derived from the world of racing competition. For the first time on a road bike, “gun drilled” titanium connecting rods are used, which are drilled longitudinally along the rod (1.6 mm diameter hole). This solution, allowing the passage of oil from the head to the small end, improves lubrication and reliability in extreme conditions.
The pistons of the Desmosedici Stradale R have a skirt characterized by DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) surface treatment, a solution used in MotoGP and Formula 1 racing competition. The Panigale V4 R adopts the same gear ratios used by the bikes competing in the WorldSBK Championship, as was already the case with the Panigale V4 S 2022. It is also equipped with a new dry clutch derived from the development of the version used in the WorldSBK by the official Ducati team.
