DUCATI

Ducati Panigale V4 R: the 239-hp desmodromic beast

Ducati has just unveiled the evolution of its most extreme machine, the new 2021 Panigale V4 R. This isn't just a production superbike; it's an engineering masterpiece, a street-legal Desmosedici that more directly than ever transfers MotoGP and WSBK technology into the hands of a select group of riders. With a numbered production run, this model is the ultimate expression of Ducati's relentless pursuit of performance and exclusivity.

At the heart of this machine is the latest evolution of the Desmosedici Stradale R engine, a 998cc V4 that is already a mechanical symphony. In its street configuration, it delivers a respectable 218 hp at 15,500 rpm. But the real magic happens when the V4 R hits the track: with the installation of the full Akrapovič exhaust system and Ducati Corse-specific racing oil, power jumps to an impressive 239 hp, raising maximum revs to 16,500 rpm in sixth gear. To achieve these breathtaking figures, engineers optimized the intake and exhaust, and incorporated 5.1% lighter pistons and a new crankshaft, making throttle response even more instantaneous.

The new Panigale V4 R will be produced in a limited number of units (not yet specified) which sounds reasonable since the bike is capable of a top speed exceeding 200 mph. At that speed aerodynamics play a fundamental role; a new fairing features larger biplane winglets and MotoGP-derived corner sidepods that generate a strong downforce to increase the traction on both wheels while diverting turbulence away from the rider. These sidepods are claimed to increase the cornering speed and the neutrality of the steering response. In addition, the riding position has been further narrowed at the rider’s pegs, improving the tank and seat profiles.

The 2021 Ducati Panigale V4 R is one of the first production models to feature lateral aerodynamic appendages, the so-called "Corner Sidepods," which generate ground effect at full lean, increasing grip and cornering speed. The dual-plane wings, which have become a Panigale icon, now generate 25% more downforce, with up to 6 kg of downforce at 300 km/h. The chassis package is equally impressive, with a dry weight of just 186.5 kg, Öhlins suspension components (NPX25/30 fork and TTX36 shock) and Brembo Hypure brakes, which are the most advanced on the market.

The latest evolution of a legendary saga that epitomises Ducati sports attitude. Developed to respect the WorldSBK championship regulation, the new Panigale V4 R embodies the success achieved by Ducati in MotoGP and Superbike. Powered by the 998 cc Desmosedici Stradale, it is the first bike homologated for road use to feature Corner Sidepods and the Ducati Racing Gearbox with Ducati Neutral Lock (DNL).

Oval throttle bodies featuring twin injectors and variable length intake trumpets that are 10mm shorter. The upper injectors have been repositioned to improve both the volumetric efficiency of the airflow and the atomization of the fuel charge, for a more complete combustion at all engine speeds. New desmo cam profiles translate into a fatter torque curve at midrange, while maintaining the same peak power numbers.

To underline its racing track vocation, the new Panigale V4 R receives a new gearbox featuring the neutral position under first gear—not between first and second. To prevent ending in an unpleasant neutral when downshifting into a corner, the new gearbox is fitted with a patented Ducati Neutral Lock system that can only be disengaged by operating a lever on the right handlebar.

A technological revolution in racing...The V4 R's electronics are a spectacle in themselves. The new 6.9-inch TFT display includes the "Grip Meter" that reports real-time grip, while the Race Brake Control system allows for optimized use of the rear brake when leaning, a racing riding technique. The icing on the cake is the Ducati Racing Gearbox (DRG), which replicates the WSBK setup with neutral positioned in first gear, ensuring lightning-fast gear changes, complemented by the DNL system, which prevents accidental neutral selection under heavy braking.

The 2021 Ducati Panigale V4 R isn't for everyone. Its price of 44,000 euros puts it squarely on the podium of exclusivity, but every euro invested means you're taking home the closest thing to a MotoGP that money can buy, a masterpiece from Borgo Panigale.

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