Ducati Panigale V2

Powerful engines, unmistakable design, innovative technologies and a burning passion for motorcycles: That is the credo of Ducati, the most desirable brand for powerful two-wheel products.

I was recently lucky enough to taste some of Ducati’s delicious offerings for a couple of hours on a press day. One of the delights was the Panigale V2, named after the district of Borgo Panigale, home of Ducati.

The Ducati Panigale V2 features a powerful 955cc 90-degree L twin Superquadro engine that delivers 155 hp (114 kW) @ 10.750 rpm and 104 Nm (76,7 lb-ft) of torque @ 9.000 rpm. This is an engine that loves to rev. The Panigale V2 is beautiful in its simplicity, where the V4S has wings, the V2 just has a sleek, elegant form. 

The Panigale can trace its lineage back to 1994 when Massimo Tamburini created one of the most beautiful motorcycles the world has ever seen, the Ducati 916. The 916 had a 748 baby brother which became the difficult second album, the 749 in 2003. in 2007 was replaced by the 848 designed by Giandrea Fabbro and his design team. In 2013 this evolved into the 899 and In 2016 we saw the Ducati 959. The first Panigale V2 was launched in 2020 which brings us up to date. What we have here is the latest and greatest 2023 Panigale V2. 

Unlike its great uncle, the 748, the V2 is a monocoque design, using the engine as a stressed member. This means no more trellis frame. 

The Ducati Panigale V2 is equipped with an advanced electronics package to help you get the most out of your riding experience. 

The bike features; Bosch Cornering ABS EVO, which provides optimal braking performance in any riding condition. Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2 which allows riders to adjust the level of traction control based on their preferences and an up/down quick shifter which allows for seamless gear changes. You also have Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, and Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO which optimise bike stability under extreme turn-in conditions and 3 different riding modes.

Weighing in at just 200kg (441 lbs) wet, the V2 is lithe and agile, changing direction with little more than a turn of the head. It’s easy to move around on and rewards rider input with precise handling. Leaning off the bike and transferring your weight feels natural and makes you feel like a rock star. On the road, the V2 chassis is so incredibly capable and confidence-inspiring. You have fully adjustable Showa BPF 43mm forks up front with a fully adjustable Sachs shock at the rear with radial 4-piston Brembo monobloc calipers up front and 2 piston at the rear. I only had an hour or so on the bike and found the handling is smooth and responsive, and the bike feels balanced and stable even at high speeds. Despite the riding being very brisk, I never really got near the limit of the chassis. This is more bike than you will ever need on the road.

The 955cc engine is an absolute peach. It loves to rev, with power coming in higher up the rev range. The harder you ride, the better the V2 is. The combination of the 155bhp revy engine, the brilliant chassis and those gorgeous looks all come together to create an incredibly capable package and a beautiful, desirable motorcycle.

The Panigale V2 is available in the classic and sporty monochrome Ducati Red and the Star White Silk livery.

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Displacement – 955 cc

Power – 114 kW (155 hp) @ 10.750 rpm

Torque – 104 Nm (76,7 lb-ft) @ 9.000 rpm

Seat Height – 840 mm (33,1 in)

Wet Weight – 200 kg (441 lb)

Frame – Monocoque Aluminium

Front Suspension – Fully adjustable Showa BPF fork. 43 mm chromed inner tubes

Rear Suspension – Fully adjustable Sachs unit. Aluminum single-sided swingarm

Front Brake – 2 x 320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc M4.32 4-piston callipers with EVO Cornering ABS

Rear Brake – 245 mm disc, 2-piston calliper with Cornering ABS EVO

Warranty (months) – 24 months unlimited mileage

Maintenance – 12,000 km (7,500 m)/12 months

Valve clearance adjustment (km) – 24,000 km (15,000 m)

OTR price – from £16,795

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