Ducati Panigale V4 R is the most powerful machine from the Italian manufacturer for EICMA 2018. The biggest surprise is the shift from the 1103cc to a 998cc motor, producing even more power for the riders who are in desperate need to dominate the track. The engine now comes with lightweight components, forged pistons, titanium valves, connecting rods and a brand-new camshaft. The motorcycle is now good for 231 HP at 15,500 rpm with the Akrapovic performance exhaust. The torque has come down to 112 Nm, still very promising for a motorcycle that weighs 193 kg, including the necessary fluids and full fuel tank.
The R in the name stands for pure race-spec material as redline on the new 998cc engine is at 16,500 rpm. Apart from the technological updates, the visual character has also been enhanced to achieve pure race-bike feel out of the motorcycle. Ducati has added winglets to the design and all-new paint job is quite radical in comparison to the standard Red paint. The latter half predominantly finished in metallic silver finish while panels around the seat are again Red on the Panigale V4 R. The most happening change from the eye level view is the dual tone fuel tank finish.
Ducati has left the electronically controlled suspension to reduce weight, further using cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control and launch control system on the Panigale V4 R. The GPS enabled lap timer and pit lane limiter are two further additions to the package. The fairing can be seen with unique air vents that further help in channelization of air and keeping the temperature optimum for engine’s health. The wheels are lightweight and availability of lights guarantee road legal character of the new Panigale V4 R. The pricing will be on the higher side of the superbike league, with an expected Indian price tag that’s much higher than the V4 S.
