Ducati Panigale V4 2018 vs. Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP 2022

The Ducati Panigale V4 2018 and the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP 2022 are both high-performance supersport motorcycles that cater to the needs of experienced riders. While they share some similarities in terms of engine specifications and suspension components, there are notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the engine, the Ducati Panigale V4 2018 is equipped with a V4 engine, while the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP 2022 features an in-line four-cylinder engine. Both engines have an 81 mm bore, but the Panigale V4 has a longer stroke at 53.5 mm compared to the Fireblade SP's 48.5 mm stroke. In terms of power output, the Fireblade SP takes the lead with 217 HP, while the Panigale V4 produces 214 HP. However, the Panigale V4 has a higher torque rating of 124 Nm compared to the Fireblade SP's 113 Nm. The Panigale V4 also has a higher compression ratio of 14 compared to the Fireblade SP's 13.4.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front. However, the Panigale V4 is equipped with Showa forks, while the Fireblade SP features Öhlins forks. Both forks have a diameter of 43 mm and offer adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound. At the rear, the Panigale V4 has a single swing arm suspension with a Sachs shock absorber, while the Fireblade SP has a swing arm suspension with an Öhlins shock absorber. Both rear suspensions offer adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound. The Panigale V4 has an aluminum swing arm, while the Fireblade SP has an aluminum swing arm as well.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles feature aluminum frames. However, the Panigale V4 has a monocoque frame, while the Fireblade SP has a twin-spar frame. The Panigale V4 has a rake of 65.5 degrees and a trail of 100 mm, while the Fireblade SP has a slightly steeper rake of 66 degrees and a trail of 102 mm.

Ducati Panigale V4 2018

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 330 mm. The Panigale V4 uses Brembo brakes, while the Fireblade SP uses Nissin brakes. Both front brakes utilize radial and monoblock technology.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles are equipped with ABS. However, the Fireblade SP offers a more comprehensive range of features, including suspension that is electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, launch control, ride by wire, quickshifter, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Panigale V4, on the other hand, only offers ABS.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 200 mm. They both have a 17-inch front and rear tire diameter. The Panigale V4 has a slightly longer wheelbase at 1469 mm compared to the Fireblade SP's 1455 mm. Both motorcycles have a seat height of 830 mm. The Panigale V4 has a kerb weight of 198 kg with ABS, while the Fireblade SP weighs slightly more at 201 kg with ABS. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of around 16 liters.

Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP 2022

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles are equipped with LED headlights. However, the Fireblade SP also features LED daytime running lights and a TFT display, which are not present on the Panigale V4.

In terms of strengths, the Panigale V4 is praised for its powerful engine with charisma and great manners, a pleasant upper body position compared to other supersport bikes, a sufficiently dimensioned chassis for the country road, a powerful but not intrusive sound, and good wind protection. On the other hand, the Fireblade SP is commended for its great engine, good electronic tuning, top driveability, and feedback.

In terms of weaknesses, the Panigale V4 is noted for its seat getting warm, especially in city traffic, and its engine/clutch feeling a little rough in tight hairpin bends. The Fireblade SP, on the other hand, has a narrow knee angle, especially for taller riders.

Overall, both the Ducati Panigale V4 2018 and the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP 2022 are impressive supersport motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.