Ducati SuperSport S 2017 vs. Ducati Panigale V4 S 2018

The Ducati SuperSport S 2017 and the Ducati Panigale V4 S 2018 are both high-performance motorcycles from Ducati, but they have several key differences.

In terms of engine specifications, the SuperSport S is powered by a V-twin engine with a displacement of 937cc, producing 110 horsepower and 96.7 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Panigale V4 S features a larger V4 engine with a displacement of 1103cc, delivering an impressive 214 horsepower and 124 Nm of torque. The Panigale V4 S has a higher compression ratio of 14 compared to the SuperSport S's 12.6, which contributes to its increased power output.

Both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks in the front suspension, with the SuperSport S featuring 48mm Öhlins forks and the Panigale V4 S equipped with 43mm Öhlins forks. The rear suspension on both bikes is a single swing arm with an Öhlins shock absorber. However, the Panigale V4 S has a monocoque aluminum frame, while the SuperSport S has a tubular steel frame. This difference in frame construction contributes to the Panigale V4 S's lighter dry weight of 174kg compared to the SuperSport S's 184kg.

Ducati SuperSport S 2017

In terms of braking, both motorcycles have double disk brakes in the front, with Brembo radial monoblock calipers. The SuperSport S has 320mm diameter disks, while the Panigale V4 S has larger 330mm diameter disks. Both bikes are equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, but the SuperSport S also features riding modes, ride by wire, quickshifter, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 17-inch front and rear tire diameter. The SuperSport S has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm, while the Panigale V4 S has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 200mm. The SuperSport S has a wheelbase of 1478mm and a seat height of 810mm, while the Panigale V4 S has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1469mm and a taller seat height of 830mm. Both bikes have a fuel tank capacity of 16 liters.

Ducati Panigale V4 S 2018

In terms of strengths, the SuperSport S is praised for its Testastretta engine, ample torque, Öhlins suspension, advanced electronics, comfortable ergonomics, nimble handling, Ducati aesthetics, and versatile usability. On the other hand, the Panigale V4 S is highly regarded for its dreambike image, excellent brakes, comfortable seating position, impressive lean angle potential, leading electronics package, finely controllable engine power, and exceptional handling.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The SuperSport S is criticized for noticeable vibrations in the handlebar and its relatively high price. The Panigale V4 S, on the other hand, has complaints about the seat heating up in warm weather, limited grip in the braking zone due to the seat-tank combination, and stability issues at the limit, requiring caution with tuning measures and discipline with seat position on fast and bumpy sections.

In conclusion, the Ducati SuperSport S 2017 and the Ducati Panigale V4 S 2018 are both impressive motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The SuperSport S offers a more versatile and comfortable riding experience, while the Panigale V4 S is a true performance machine with exceptional power and handling.