Newly Revamped Ducati Panigale V4 R 2026 Unveiled

According to the manufacturer, the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2025 marks the beginning of a new generation of superbikes from Borgo Panigale. It is based on the Panigale V4 2025, which was first unveiled at WDW 2024 and is said to have drawn attention with improved lap times in the "Race of Champions".

The V4 R has been completely revamped and is set to serve as the homologation basis for participation in the 2026 Superbike World Championship. This positions the Ducati Panigale V4 R as the bridge between series production and world championship racing.

Ducati states that with innovations such as the newly introduced Corner Sidepods and the Ducati Racing Gearbox, they have further bridged the gap to pure racing technology. The Panigale V4 R is described as the supersport homologation bike that most closely resembles the world championship machine.

Like its predecessor, the new Ducati Panigale V4 R 2025 will be produced in a numbered series. The model name and serial number are laser-etched directly onto the triple clamp. The manufacturer specifically targets riders with sporting aspirations, as well as collectors and Ducati enthusiasts.

In designing the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2025, the manufacturer takes an integrative approach. Instead of retrofitting an aero package, Ducati claims to have developed an entirely new line where aerodynamic components are integrated into the form from the outset.

The silhouette takes cues from legendary Ducati superbikes, masterfully combining modern technology with historic design elements. The seamless integration of winglets, air intakes, and side panels into the overall design underscores the harmonious balance between bodywork and aerodynamics.

Color-wise, the V4 R draws on typical Ducati references: the fairing is in classic Ducati red, reminiscent of the Superbike World Championship bikes. The black-painted frame and swingarm provide contrast—a finish exclusive to the V4 R. The exposed, brushed aluminum of the fuel tank further emphasizes its connection to racing.

For the new Ducati Panigale V4 R 2025, the 998 cc Desmosedici Stradale R engine has been fundamentally overhauled. According to Ducati, the goal is maximum performance despite Euro 5+ homologation, while simultaneously preparing for use in the 2026 Superbike World Championship.

Maximum Power: The peak output is 218 hp at 15,750 rpm, with a rev limit of 16,500 rpm. With the optional Akrapovič racing exhaust, power increases to 235 hp. Combined with Ducati Corse Performance oil, it reportedly reaches 239 hp. To ensure the engine hasn't lost any power despite the strict emissions standards, the following adjustments were necessary:

• New positioning of the injectors: Relocated directly under the throttle bodies, allowing better mixture formation during cold starts.
• New camshaft profiles: Later opening of the exhaust valves for more complete combustion.
• Modified intake ports: Smoother surfaces and increased flow capacity at full throttle by +1.5%.
• Revised intake system: Throttle bodies mounted 10 mm higher, shorter stacks, altered geometry.
• Air filter: High-flow element by Sprint Filter. A newly developed dynamic air intake provides more power at top speed. The lower edge of the air intake has been extended outward by 70 mm, increasing air pressure at the filter by 0.6% at 300 km/h, which Ducati claims results in a power gain of 1.3 hp solely due to air density.

Overall, the combination of these measures is said to have improved torque in the low and mid-range, while maintaining peak power.

A key innovation is the Ducati Racing Gearbox (DRG). This racing transmission configuration, with a neutral position below first gear, is designed to deliver not only an authentic racing feel but also enhanced safety when downshifting.

Additionally, the Ducati Neutral Lock (DNL) is employed: Neutral can only be engaged via a lever on the right handlebar. This system prevents accidental engagement of neutral, especially during intense braking maneuvers on the racetrack.

For the 2025 version, the Desmosedici Stradale R received new, lighter pistons with DLC-coated skirts. They weigh 5.1% less than before, reducing rotating mass and friction. The new crankshaft offers 8% more inertia with only 195 grams of additional weight. According to Ducati, the aim of these measures is smoother power delivery, improved traction, and reduced intervention frequency of aids like traction control or engine braking. The new Ducati Quickshifter is also installed for the first time, operating without microswitches in the shift lever. Instead, the shift logic relies solely on the position sensor of the shift drum, providing a clearer, more mechanical shift feel, supported by pedals mounted on ball bearings.

The secondary gearing was changed from 15/42 to 16/43. According to Ducati, this, along with the new aerodynamics package, enables a top speed of 318.4 km/h, and even 330.6 km/h in racing configuration. Another component for weight reduction is the new aluminum sprocket, which saves 650 grams compared to the steel version.

According to the manufacturer, the ergonomics of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2025 have been revised to improve control in critical racing situations. The adjustments aim to facilitate both individual fast laps and longer stints with reduced physical strain.

The seat has been widened by 50 mm and features a new surface. A textured pattern in the contact area between the thighs and the tank provides better grip. This is intended to ease movement when sliding back and reduce unwanted forward sliding during braking. The tank itself has a new shape, offering more grip during deceleration and making it easier for riders of various heights to brace their knees against the bike. This relieves arm strain during braking and is aimed at reducing fatigue over a session. Simultaneously, the rider's position within the fairing improves, especially when tucking in on straights. The rear contour has also been revised to offer riders of any stature better grip when hanging off in corners without restricting freedom of movement. The side pads help secure the knees without hindering movement on the bike. The foot pegs are now positioned 10 mm further inward. With the same footrest area, this allows for a more aerodynamic posture and increased lean angle. At the same time, the focus on precise foot positioning is reduced due to the increased distance from the asphalt.

The aerodynamics of the Ducati Panigale V4 R have been completely redesigned, building on the platform of the current Panigale V4. According to Ducati, the goal is increased downforce—even when leaned over—while simultaneously reducing drag.

The fairing of the Panigale V4 R 2025 reduces drag by 4%, while simultaneously improving cooling efficiency: airflow to the water and oil coolers increases by 9% and 19%, respectively. A newly integrated deflector directs air specifically to the oil cooler, enhancing performance under high thermal loads on the track. The side fairing profile has been reduced—MotoGP-inspired—to improve air permeability under lateral pressure. Ducati expects this to result in more agile handling at high speeds and reduced sensitivity to crosswinds.

As the world's first street-legal motorcycle, the Panigale V4 R features what are known as Corner Sidepods. According to Ducati, these aerodynamic elements create a noticeable ground effect in cornering situations: the air flowing between the ground and the sidepod generates a low-pressure field, increasing the downforce on the front wheel. Unlike traditional winglets, which are most effective when the bike is upright, the Corner Sidepods only come into play in extreme lean angles. The result: more grip at the apex, tighter lines, and a more stable ride without additional rider input.

The wings have also been redesigned. Compared to the Panigale V4 S, the wingspan has increased by 20 mm, and the wing profile design has been adjusted. The result: 25% more downforce, translating to an additional 4.8 kg at 270 km/h and 6 kg at 300 km/h—without increased drag.

The chassis of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2025 is based on the platform of the current Panigale V4 but has been adjusted in key areas. Ducati's goal is the optimal use of modern racing tires and even more precise feedback at maximum lean angles, particularly under track conditions.

The revised front frame chassis uses the engine as a load-bearing element. Lateral stiffness has been reduced by 40%, which, according to Ducati, improves feedback from the front wheel at maximum lean angles. Additionally, the weight of the frame element has been decreased by 17%. The new Hollow Symmetrical swingarm replaces the previous design. It has been newly engineered with stability, traction, and handling in mind. This results in 37% less lateral stiffness, new quick-change chain adjusters like those in MotoGP, reduces the total weight of the swingarm, linkage, and wheel by 3.27 kg, and extends the wheelbase to 618 mm (+16 mm). According to Ducati, the aim is a better balance between front and rear wheel loads, especially when accelerating out of corners.

The Panigale V4 R does away with semi-active damping, opting instead for fully mechanical components from Öhlins. At the front: a 43 mm NPX25/30 pressurized fork with TiN coating. At the rear: a TTX36 shock absorber with hydraulic preload adjustment. The rear spring stiffness has been increased from 80 to 85 N/m. The new SD20 steering damper offers a wider adjustment range and higher damping force. Linear travel sensors for telemetry, compatible with the Ducati Data Logger, can be retrofitted as an option. Additionally, the swingarm pivot can be adjusted in four height levels (each 2 mm). The rear height can also be adjusted via a newly designed linkage with a greater adjustment range than before (32.4 mm instead of 13 mm).

At the front, the new Brembo Hypure braking system is employed, saving 30 grams per caliper compared to the previous Stylema components. Further details according to Ducati:

• 15% less residual friction between pad and disc
• 4% improved heat dissipation
• Four-piston monoblocks (30 mm), 330 mm brake discs at the front
• Rear: 245 mm disc, 2-piston caliper, 80 g lighter than before
• ABS: Race-eCBS with cornering function and 10.3ME control unit

The new five-spoke forged aluminum wheels weigh a total of just 7.1 kg. The front wheel is 150 g lighter than the equivalent on the Panigale V4 S 2024. The Panigale V4 R comes factory-fitted with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V4 tires, with sizes 120/70 ZR17 at the front and 200/60 ZR17 at the rear. For track use, Pirelli Diablo Superbike Slicks in 125/70 (front) and 200/65 (rear) can also be mounted.

The Ducati Panigale V4 R 2025 relies on a comprehensively revised electronic system, which, according to the manufacturer, is intended to allow significantly more precise interventions through the new Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO). The system simulates data from over 70 virtual sensors and uses this information for predictive control of all relevant riding aids.

• Ducati Traction Control (DTC) DVO: Manages rear wheel slip. Thanks to DVO, it allows more precise adaptation to the actual available traction.
• Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) DVO: Regulates front wheel lift during hard acceleration. DVO enables earlier intervention based on more parameters.
• Ducati Slide Control (DSC): Supports controlled drifting by targeted torque reduction at corner exit.
• Ducati Power Launch (DPL) DVO: Three-stage launch control system for optimal starts. DVO adjusts torque delivery during and after clutch engagement.
• Engine Brake Control (EBC) DVO: Modifies engine braking torque based on rear wheel load. Goal: better stability during braking.
• ABS Cornering with Race Brake Control: Bosch 10.3ME control with seven modes. New Race Brake Control strategy allows targeted use of the rear brake for line correction, even with a "post-run" function.
• Riding Modes & Power Modes: Five riding modes (Race A, Race B, Sport, Road, Wet), combinable with four power modes (Full, High, Medium, Low). Each mode affects throttle response, power, and control systems.
• Ride-by-Wire: Electronically controlled throttle with different characteristics depending on the chosen power mode.
• Ducati Quick Shift (DQS): Shift assistant without microswitch. The system is based on the position of the shift drum for a more direct shift feel.
• TFT Display (6.9 inches): High resolution (1280 x 480), two view modes (Road & Track), graphical representation of all relevant telemetry and system data. In Track Mode with Grip Level Meter when using the DAVC Race Pro module.
• Ducati Data Logger (DDL): Optional system for telemetry analysis with linear travel sensors. Integration of all ride data for setup optimization.

Ducati offers a comprehensive range of accessories for the Panigale V4 R 2025, specifically designed for track use. Key accessory highlights include:

• Akrapovič Racing Exhaust: Full titanium system with dual under-seat mufflers. Saves 6.6 kg, adds +17 hp, stays below 105 dB.
• DAVC Race Pro Software: Optimized for slick tires and track use. New power and riding modes, adjusted control systems, speed visible over 299 km/h.
• Carbon Wheels: Weight reduction of 950 g, reduced inertia for noticeably more agile handling.
• Ducati Data Logger (DDL): GPS-supported telemetry with Wi-Fi data transfer, compatible with linear travel sensors.
• Brembo Pro & Pro+ Brake Kits: Larger T-Drive racing brake discs, Hypure or GP4 calipers, racing master cylinder with remote adjuster.
• Rizoma Racing Footpegs: Made from machined aluminum, triple adjustable, exclusively for "reverse" shift pattern. Variants for street use available.
• Carbon and Aluminum Parts: Lighter components like fenders, winglets, heel guards, and chain guards made from carbon. Rizoma tuning parts for appearance and function.
• Track Kit: Race fairing with oil catch pan, conversion kit for mirrors and license plate holder, race seat in standard and +15 mm versions.
• Taller Plexiglass: For better wind protection—developed with Ducati Corse.