Ducati 1199 Panigale S 2012 vs. Ducati Panigale V4 S 2018

The Ducati 1199 Panigale S 2012 and the Ducati Panigale V4 S 2018 are both high-performance motorcycles with impressive specifications.

Starting with the engine and drivetrain, the 1199 Panigale S has a bore of 112 mm and a stroke of 60.8 mm, while the Panigale V4 S has a smaller bore of 81 mm and a stroke of 53.5 mm. This difference in dimensions results in the Panigale V4 S having a higher displacement of 1103 cc compared to the 1198 cc of the 1199 Panigale S. In terms of power, the Panigale V4 S boasts 214 HP, a significant increase from the 195 HP of the 1199 Panigale S. However, the torque of the Panigale V4 S is slightly lower at 124 Nm compared to the 132 Nm of the 1199 Panigale S. Both motorcycles have a high compression ratio, with the 1199 Panigale S at 12.5 and the Panigale V4 S at 14.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature Öhlins suspension components. The front suspension is a telescopic upside-down fork, and both have adjustable compression and preload settings. The rear suspension is a single swingarm with adjustable compression, preload, and recovery settings.

Ducati 1199 Panigale S 2012

Both motorcycles have an aluminum frame and monocoque type chassis, providing a lightweight and rigid structure. The braking systems on both bikes consist of dual disc brakes with radial, monobloc calipers from Brembo. Additionally, both motorcycles are equipped with advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the two motorcycles have similar tire widths and diameters, with a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 200 mm, both with a 17-inch diameter. The 1199 Panigale S has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1437 mm compared to the 1469 mm of the Panigale V4 S. The seat height of the 1199 Panigale S is 825 mm, while the Panigale V4 S has a slightly higher seat height of 830 mm. The fuel tank capacity of the 1199 Panigale S is 17 liters, while the Panigale V4 S has a slightly smaller capacity of 16 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles are equipped with LED headlights, providing improved visibility and aesthetics.

Ducati Panigale V4 S 2018

In terms of strengths, the 1199 Panigale S is praised for its high power output, quality traction, excellent ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, lightweight, and impeccable brakes. On the other hand, the Panigale V4 S is praised for its iconic dream bike image, excellent brakes, comfortable seating position even for taller riders, impressive lean angle potential, leading electronic package, finely controllable engine power, and clever handling.

In terms of weaknesses, the 1199 Panigale S is criticized for its high purchase price. The Panigale V4 S, on the other hand, is noted to have a seat that noticeably heats up, which can be uncomfortable in summer, and the seat-tank combination offers little grip during braking. Additionally, it requires careful tuning and discipline in the seating position in fast and bumpy sections for stability at the limit.

In conclusion, both the Ducati 1199 Panigale S 2012 and the Ducati Panigale V4 S 2018 are impressive motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Panigale V4 S offers improved power, electronic features, and handling compared to the 1199 Panigale S, but it also comes with a higher price tag and some minor comfort issues. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.