Motorcycle specifications Ducati1100 Panigale V4 S 2020 Little space between chronos

Intense red, powerful sound, fins on the fairing - these are the features that make you want to appreciate this Ducati up close. Receiving their first evolution, the 1100 Panigale V4 and here V4 S reduce their differences with the V4 R. Apart from the brushed aluminum tank, it's now almost impossible to tell them apart.

this mimicry is also evident in the Panigale's cheek fins. Offering support at high speed to stabilize steering, they are part of the aerodynamic package that Ducati installs on all V4 Panigales - the V2 takes advantage of this to preserve the purer styling of theprevious generation. In addition to the winglets, these hypersports bikes offer increased protection with a larger bubble, a fork head enlarged by 15 mm on each side, and flanks widened by 38 mm. Cooling is optimized with shark gills, with the water radiator 6% more efficient and the oil radiator 16% more efficient.

A closer look at the fins reveals their technical and racing aspects, as well as their plastoc design. Passable on the standard Panigale V4. But frankly petty on the S, which is more premium and costs an arm and a leg - carbon components like on the V4 R would have been in better taste.

slight chassis tweaks are also in order. The frame is now that of the R, stiffer at the front. A fork lowered by 4mm, a shock absorber 2mm shorter and a few other modifications raise the center of gravity by 5mm. It may not sound like much, but it makes it more responsive and stable under acceleration. A little more preload at the front and softened springs are intended to filter out road imperfections more effectively.

the main difference between the R and the S is in the innards. On the one hand, the engine is calibrated for WSBK, while on the other, it breaks free of regulatory limits with 1103 cm3. It's a violent, road-qualified missile, with a strong desire for the racetrack. In terms of pure mechanics, there have been no changes. It's the electronics that receive updates, with revised mapping, EVO 2 for traction control (more reactive and predictive) and an even faster shifter.

From the outset, the Panigale V4 S sublimates with its exquisite legs. The golden color catches the eye as well as the pituitary gland, especially when you consider the quality of the Öhlins components. The ground linkage job will be most effective with a first-rate team: NIX 30 inverted fork, TTX36 shock absorber, and electronic control via the Smart EC 2.0 system.
The choice is yours: adjust the suspension yourself via the on-board computer, or let the electronics adapt in real time. In the former case, you fine-tune compression and rebound, as well as the force of the steering damper, by means of 'virtual clicks' - 32 for the suspension and 10 for the steering.
In dynamic mode, the processors take over. Informed by the 6-axis inertial unit and other sensors, the system automatically adapts the damping to the road and driving conditions, taking into account the chosen Driving Mode. Caviar for a diva.

The V4 provides plenty of power to go around with a vengeance. Its 1103 cm3 means it can't compete (there's the R for that), but it delivers 214 hp and a hefty 12.7 mkg. On the other hand, it has less mass to lift. The Panigale V4 S is 3 kilos lighter than the standard, for a total of 195. This is thanks to the Lithium-Ion battery and Marchesini forged-aluminum wheels.

There's no change in terms of technology or on-board assistants - apart from the Smart EC Öhlins already described. There's no need, the machine is already equipped with everything Ducati has to offer. The Panigale V4s benefit from a perimeter-type frame with strong engine support. Braking is assured by the latest generation of Brembo calipers, Stylemas even more efficient than the M50s. As for general dynamics, they are under the rider's control, supported by a host of lieutenants. They are numerous and active. Stop-start assist, active ABS in corners, glide control, and developments in other modules such as traction control, up/down shifter, anti-wheeling and engine brake control. The Driving Modes oversee all this as follows:

race - As the name suggests, Riding Mode Race has been developed for experienced riders who want to make the most of the V4 Panigale's full potential on the racetrack. By selecting Race, the rider can count on 214 hp, with direct throttle response and a harder suspension setting for high performance. By default, this race mode implies little intervention by the electronic assistants, without compromising safety, with ABS intervening only on the front wheel to offer maximum braking, but with the Cornering function still active.

sport - By selecting Sport mode, the 214 hp are delivered in a sporty manner, as is the damping. The electronic controls are set so as to make the drivers a little less sharp, while retaining efficiency and spectacular handling. For example, brake drift control is active, allowing the rear wheel to skid when cornering safely. Rear wheel lift control is active, and ABS cornering is configured for maximum cornering performance.

street - Street mode is the Panigale V4's most street-oriented mode. Throttle response is more progressive for the 214 hp. Suspension is softer and better able to absorb bumps. The default setting of the electronic controls ensures maximum safety, guaranteeing the best grip and maximum stability.

S versions have long been the magnificence of Ducati sports bikes. With this generation, this new history, this strong identity, the sport takes on a whole new dimension. For those who want to take their devotion to this Superbike up a notch, the brand offers the Speciale version , ready to take on anything that rolls. For pure competition and an even higher level of power, the Panigale V4 R sets new and crazy standards.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos