Ducati Panigale V4S 2025 – Road & Track Test

In an extensive test, I rode the Panigale V4S both on public roads and the Slovakia Ring, showcasing what this motorcycle truly delivers, where its limits are, and why it can still be convincing in everyday use despite its radical nature.

From the first moment you swing a leg over, it's clear: the Ducati Panigale V4S is a thoroughly sporty machine. The newly shaped tank provides better knee grip, and the sleek design makes it easier to tuck your body into the bike's line. Despite the sporty riding position, the knee angle is surprisingly suitable for everyday use, with ample room even for taller riders. Only the weight on the wrists and clutch work in city traffic are reminders of its racing focus.

The engine is more refined than expected. With 216 horsepower and 120 Nm of torque, power delivery at lower RPMs is impressively controlled. Even at slower speeds, the V4 remains smooth and shows no tendency to jerk. However, the engine truly comes alive at around 6,000 to 7,000 RPM. From this range, the Ducati pulls with authority, and it really starts to flex its muscles from 9,000 RPM onwards. But this range is rarely reached on the road. Why? The first gear is extremely long, stretching up to 160 km/h, which makes sense on the track to utilize the first gear there, but becomes impractical in tight road bends. A shorter overall gearing would be needed to counteract this.

The electronically controlled Öhlins suspension proves to be a real asset in everyday riding. In a comfortable setting, even rough road sections are absorbed smoothly. The bike remains consistently stable without ever feeling overdamped. Switching to the sport mode instantly sharpens the response, making it ideal for spirited rides on twisty backroads. The revamped electronic suspension control also offers excellent automatic modes that adjust damping based on riding conditions, relieving the rider of manual adjustments.

Ducati has really gone all out with the electronics. The large 6.9-inch TFT display clearly shows all active systems, from traction control to slide and wheelie control. A standout feature is the new eCBS, an intelligent combined braking system that automatically engages the rear brake even if the rider has already released the brake lever. This provides extra stability, especially when cornering, allowing the rider to choose a tighter line.

In summary, the Panigale V4S presents itself as an astonishingly manageable motorcycle on the road with immense potential. Despite the power surge at higher RPMs, the Ducati is easy to modulate in everyday scenarios. However, it's clear: this bike wants to be pushed, and that can only be done to a limited extent in public traffic.

At the Slovakia Ring, the Panigale V4S reveals its true calling. On this challenging track with fast crests, long straights, and tight bends, the V4 engine reaches peak performance. From 8,000 RPM, the engine consistently delivers over 200 horsepower, all the way up to the limiter at 15,000 RPM. Its rev-happy nature, combined with remarkable smoothness, allows you to exploit each gear with full force—without any nervous reactions or erratic throttle response. This makes it possible to harness the 216 HP effectively.

The impact of the counter-rotating crankshaft is particularly noticeable. It actively helps keep the front wheel grounded during hard acceleration—a real safety and performance advantage. This feature is especially beneficial in the lower gears, where aerodynamics don't fully engage due to low air pressure. At speeds over 200 km/h, such as over the crests of the Slovakia Ring, the front remains reassuringly stable thanks to aerodynamics and engine balance, allowing much of the power to be converted into forward thrust. Any excess is gently regulated by the electronics, showcasing their true capability. The rider aids intervene sensitively, yet without being intrusive. The eCBS, in particular, impresses during hard braking before tight corners, where the bike stays calm and stable thanks to the additional rear brake. Even while cornering, a residual braking force is maintained, further enhancing handling—a plus both on the track and on the road.

The new chassis setup with altered stiffness and the lighter double-sided swingarm also prove their worth on the racetrack. The bike remains stable over bumps, absorbs shocks better when leaned over, and provides excellent rear grip, especially with big-size racing tires. While the new swingarm performs well, many will likely miss the iconic single-sided swingarm that has defined Ducati's appearance for decades. But everything comes to an end, right? Could you have imagined, ten years ago, that Ducati would no longer be using V2 engines in their superbikes?

The semi-active suspension is ideally adjustable through Track 1 and Track 2 modes. While Track 1 focuses on crisp performance, Track 2 offers a slightly more comfortable yet equally sporty setup—ideal for tracks with more irregularities. Switching to big-size Pirelli tires also adds to cornering joy at the apex, supporting tight radii without the need for manual geometry adjustments.

The interplay of all components makes it clear: the Panigale V4S is a sharp but controllable tool on the racetrack—precise, demanding, and immensely powerful.