Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023 Review: Unleashing the Beast on the Track

In this blog post, we will dive deep into the world of superbikes and explore the thrilling performance of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023. With its powerful engine, advanced technology, and sleek design, the Panigale V4 R is a true marvel on the track. Join us as we take a closer look at its features, performance, and overall riding experience.

Introduction to the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023

The Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023 is the pinnacle of Italian engineering and design. This superbike is a direct result of Ducati’s success in MotoGP, bringing race-inspired technology to the streets. The V4 R boasts a powerful 998cc Desmosedici Stradale engine, designed to deliver mind-blowing performance on the track. With its aggressive styling and aerodynamic bodywork, the Panigale V4 R is a sight to behold.

Ducati has been producing limited-run specials for decades to homologate its WSBK machines. In their pursuit of racing success, these models always surpass their predecessors. We have been eagerly awaiting a revamp of the Panigale V4 R, and now it’s finally here. With a couple of bolt-on options, it boasts a claimed 240.5hp. Not long ago, this level of power would have been seen only in MotoGP bikes. While the Panigale V4 R may not be road legal once tuned to that level, it demonstrates how easily more power can be extracted from the V4 engine.

Out of the showroom, the 2023 Panigale V4 R is actually slightly less powerful than the previous version, due to changes made to comply with Euro 5 emissions regulations. However, it’s difficult to imagine many customers purchasing the homologation machine without also investing in the track-only Akrapovič exhaust, which increases power to 237hp – a 3hp improvement over the previous V4 R in free-breathing form. The final 3.5hp needed to reach Ducati’s claimed 240.5hp comes from using a special Shell oil that reduces engine friction by 10%.

Despite being the latest addition to Ducati’s line of ‘R’ badged homologation specials, the new Panigale V4 R is the first to be produced in a numbered series. These models can be identified by a headstock plaque, although Ducati has not specified whether the numbers will be limited.

Engine and Performance of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023

At the heart of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023 lies a beastly 998cc Desmosedici Stradale engine. This V4 engine produces an astonishing 221 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful production motorcycles in its class. The engine’s power delivery is smooth and linear, allowing riders to effortlessly harness its immense power on the track. The Panigale V4 R also features advanced electronics, including traction control, wheelie control, and slide control, enhancing both safety and performance.

The headline figure of 240.5 hp (that last 0.5 makes all the difference) is actually rated using the slightly weaker European ‘PS’ horses instead of the burly metric ones we normally measure in over here, although the difference is small enough not to be noticed. Using proper bhp, the bike’s fully tuned power output is 237.4 bhp, including the race exhaust and special oil. Straight out of the door, in road-legal trim, the bike makes 218 metric horsepower, or 160.4 kW, which equates to 215.1 bhp.

Not to be sniffed at, but pretty much the same as rivals like the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, only about 2 kW more than a base Panigale V4, and around 2 kW less than the previous generation of the Panigale V4 R made in stock form. That peak arrives at a heady 15,500 rpm, 250 rpm higher than the old V4 R, and the engine will rev out to 16,500 rpm in top gear. Max torque of 112 Nm (82.6 lbft) comes at 12,000 rpm, giving a clue as to how much the Ducati’s 998 cc V4 thrives on revs. Of course, the stock Panigale V4, with a larger 1,103 cc engine, has more torque – 91.2 lbft – and peaks thousands of revs lower, making it a more flexible offering for daily use.

With that stunning-looking full titanium Akrapovič race system fitted, it’s very loud. Yes, it changes the attitude, style, and aggression of the bike, but I doubt most noise-restricted track days will allow you on track with this system. You’ll have to seek out unrestricted track days.

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Chassis and Suspension of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023

To complement its powerful engine, the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023 features a lightweight aluminum frame that offers excellent rigidity and handling. The frame has been specifically designed to improve agility and stability during high-speed maneuvers. The bike is equipped with fully adjustable Öhlins suspension components, providing riders with precise control over damping and preload settings. This combination of a well-balanced chassis and top-notch suspension allows for exceptional cornering capabilities.

The changes to the Panigale V4 R’s chassis for 2023 are relatively minor, but given the high starting point, that is understandable. Ducati has opted for revised Öhlins NPX25/30 forks, now with 5mm more travel than before, and a slightly longer TTX36 rear shock with a softer spring. As before, the swingarm pivot position is adjustable, with four possible points each 2mm apart. In the standard “+1” position, the rear ride height of the 2023 bike is 20mm higher than before, making it quicker steering than the previous version. The longer-travel fork and softer rear shock result in more weight transfer, improving grip and feel during corner entry, and on the way out, the fork can extend further before the front wheel leaves the ground.

In standard form, the V4 R weighs 193.5kg wet, including a tank of fuel, or 172kg without fluids. With the Akrapovič pipe, the figures drop to 188.5kg and 167kg respectively. Optional magnesium wheels can reduce the weight by another 0.7kg if cost is not a concern. If the screaming 998cc V4 Italian motor is pure race hardware, then it could be argued that the chassis is even more so. On the V4 S and V4 SP2, changing the riding modes automatically alters the characteristics of the semi-active suspension, but the V4 R has conventional Öhlins suspension. Why? Simple. It is because electronic suspension is not allowed in WSBK, and the V4 R is a homologation special based on the dominant race-winning bike.

Ducati has employed a similar strategy with the V4 R as it has with the larger capacity Panigale by providing it with more suspension travel and a softer spring on the rear, which theoretically makes the bike easier to ride as it provides more feel and movement. In fact, the combination of a high-revving, counter-rotating crank, state-of-the-art rider aids, and lightweight chassis delivers a fast but supremely easy-to-ride superbike. Despite its impressive performance and WSBK pedigree, the V4 R is by no means intimidating, even on a very fast track like Misano.

We encountered some challenging conditions on a drying track, with only one narrow dry line on race slicks, which required accuracy and precision. Thankfully, the V4 R is the sharpest tool in Ducati’s arsenal, hitting the grippy areas and apexes perfectly every time. You feel confident pushing the track limits because you know how the V4 R will react, and all the while, those sublime rider aids are working tirelessly in the background should you make a mistake.

The standard and much cheaper V4 S is arguably easier to set up than the V4 R since each selected riding mode automatically chooses a strategy for the semi-active suspension. However, the V4 R’s Öhlins units are easily accessible, and you can immediately feel every small adjustment. Certainly, for 2023, the V4 S Panigale is easier to ride on track than its predecessor, and the same can be said for the 2023 V4 R as well.

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Design and Aerodynamics of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023

One look at the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023 and you know it means business. The bike’s aggressive design is not just for show; it plays a critical role in enhancing aerodynamics. The sharp lines, winglets, and fairings have been meticulously engineered to reduce drag and increase downforce, keeping the bike planted on the tarmac even at high speeds. The aerodynamic improvements also contribute to improved stability and handling, allowing riders to push the limits on the track.

If comfort is your goal, this bike probably isn’t for you, although Ducati does offer a few optional seat pads to accommodate different rider preferences. As mentioned earlier, you can also add adjustable aluminum foot pegs, although the price seems steep for such a bolt-on accessory.

Fuel consumption is quite poor at 8 liters per 100 kilometers (35.3 mpg) according to official figures, but once again, it’s unlikely to be a major concern for the Panigale V4 R’s customer base. With a large 17-liter tank finished in bare aluminum, the range is around 130 miles if you achieve the quoted mpg figure. On the track, an engine that revs at 16,000 rpm doesn’t translate to a fuel-efficient motorcycle. You’ll need to refuel several times during a regular track day.

Riding Experience of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023

Getting on the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023 is an experience like no other. The riding position is sporty yet comfortable, with clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs that encourage an aggressive riding stance. The bike’s advanced electronics provide riders with customizable riding modes, allowing them to tailor the bike’s performance to their preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned track enthusiast or a casual rider looking for an adrenaline rush, the Panigale V4 R delivers an exhilarating riding experience.

The electronics suite of the Panigale V4 R has always been extensive, and the latest version continues that tradition. As standard, it includes a six-axis IMU that provides information to the computers controlling various features such as cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control EVO 3, Ducati Slide Control, Ducati Wheelie Control EVO, Ducati Power Launch, Ducati Quick Shift up/down EVO 2, and Engine Brake Control EVO 2. Additionally, it also includes a pitlane limiter and lap timer integrated into the revised instruments used in other new Panigales. With the optional DTC EVO3 Ducati Performance software, it also includes a rain light, multimedia system, and a GPS-based datalogger.

Optional features include the aforementioned Akrapovič pipe and magnesium wheels (although the standard forged alloy Marchesinis are also of high quality), as well as a range of carbon parts and race-oriented equipment like race fairings, paddock stands, and tyre warmers. Ducati often applies what it learns from MotoGP and WSBK to its production motorcycles, and the latest V4 R is a perfect example of this. There are numerous parameters and options that are easily accessible and can be adjusted.

The track mode allows you to see which rider aids you are using, providing guidance on what adjustments can be made. In many ways, riding the V4 R is like playing an expensive arcade game, where you can focus on your line and riding while the rider aids work seamlessly in the background to optimize your performance based on the conditions.

Technology and Connectivity of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023

The Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023 is not just a powerhouse; it also boasts an array of advanced technological features. The bike comes equipped with a full-color TFT display that provides riders with essential information such as speed, gear position, and engine temperature. The display is also compatible with Ducati’s multimedia system, allowing riders to connect their smartphones for navigation and music playback. Additionally, the Panigale V4 R features cornering ABS and quick-shifter for seamless gear changes.

The electronics suite of the Panigale V4 R has always been extensive, and the latest version continues this tradition. As standard, it includes a six-axis IMU that provides information to the computers controlling the cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control EVO 3, Ducati Slide Control, Ducati Wheelie Control EVO, Ducati Power Launch, Ducati Quick Shift up/down EVO 2, and Engine Brake Control EVO 2.

Additionally, it features a pit lane limiter and lap timer integrated into the same revised instruments found on other new Panigales. When the optional DTC EVO3 Ducati Performance software is installed, there is also a rain light, a multimedia system, and a GPS-based data logger. Optional accessories include the aforementioned expensive ones such as the Akrapovič pipe and magnesium wheels (although the standard forged alloy Marchesinis are also impressive), as well as various carbon parts and race-oriented equipment like race fairings, paddock stands, and tire warmers.

Ducati often incorporates what they learn from MotoGP and WSBK into their production motorcycles, and the latest V4 R is a perfect example of this. It offers numerous adjustable parameters and options that are easily accessible. The track mode allows you to see which rider aids you are utilizing, giving you an indication of what adjustments you may need to make. In many ways, the V4 R feels like an expensive arcade game, allowing you to focus on your line and riding while the rider aids work seamlessly in the background to maximize your performance in varying conditions.

Technical Specification of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023

New price	£38,995
Capacity	998cc
Bore x Stroke	81 x 48.4mm
Engine layout	90 degree V4, 16v, liquid cooled
Engine details	DOHC, desmodromic valve gear
Power	160.4kW/ 215.1bhp @ 15,500rpm
Torque	111.3Nm / 82.6ft lbs @ 12,000rpm
Transmission	6 speed, Ducati QuickShift up/down EVO 2
Average fuel consumption	Claimed: 35.3 mpg / 8 l/100km
Tank size	17 litres
Max range to empty	Claimed: 132 miles
Rider aids	Riding Modes, Power Modes, Cornering ABS EVO, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 3, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Ducati Slide Control (DSC), Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO 2, Auto tyre calibration, Ducati Power Launch (DPL), Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2
Frame	Aluminium alloy “Front Frame” with optimized stiffness
Front suspension	Fully adjustable 43 mm Öhlins NPX 25/30 pressurized fork with TiN treatment
Rear suspension	Fully adjustable Ohlins TTX 36 with hydraulic spring preload adjuster. Aluminium single-sided swingarm. Adjustable pivot position +/- 3 mm
Front brake	2 x 330 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc Stylema M4.30. 4-piston calipers with Bosch Cornering ABS EVO. Self bleeding master cylinder.
Rear brake	245 mm disc, 2-piston caliper with Bosch Cornering ABS EVO
Front wheel / tyre	3-spokes forged aluminium alloy, 120/70 ZR17
Rear wheel / tyre	3-spokes forged aluminium alloy, 200/60 ZR17
Wheelbase	1471mm
Seat height	850mm
Weight	193.5kg (wet)
MCIA Secured rating	TBA
Warranty	24 months, unlimited mileage
Servicing	7,500 miles, 12 months

Pricing and Availability of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023

As expected from a high-performance superbike, the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023 comes with a premium price tag. Pricing may vary depending on additional options and accessories chosen by the buyer. It is always recommended to contact your local Ducati dealership for accurate pricing information. Availability may be limited due to high demand, so it’s advisable to place an order in advance if you’re interested in owning this exceptional machine.

While £39,000 is a significant amount of money to spend on a bike, if you do some quick calculations, the latest batch of WSBK homologation specials can be considered the best deals in their respective manufacturers’ lineup. With race organizers imposing a price limit on bikes approved for competition in the series, manufacturers want to give their race bikes the best chance of success without charging exorbitant prices.

Just last month, Ducati launched the Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini at £55,995 and sold 630 units immediately. The Panigale V4 R is a much more exotic machine and would likely cost even more than the Lamborghini special if there were no price cap. Therefore, it can be seen as a steal for under £40,000.

In terms of color options, the only choice available is the race-rep red, and for most customers, the starting price of £38,995 is just the beginning. After all, who wouldn’t want that titanium race exhaust? That will cost an additional £6,156, please. Other optional extras include magnesium wheels for £4,579 or adjustable foot pegs for £1,078. Even having the brake calipers in red instead of silver comes with a price tag of £763.78.

This shows how Ducati is recouping the profit margins that are sacrificed to meet the homologation price cap on the base bike. A quick visit to Ducati’s online configurator will easily push the total price well beyond £53,000 once you add premium wheels, the exhaust, and some selected carbon components to the basic specification. If you go all out with all the available options, you can easily surpass £58,000 in total.

Ducati’s closest competitor is their own Panigale V4 SP2, which uses a larger 110cc4 engine but not homologated for racing. The SP2 comes in £34,495.

Verdict of the Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023

The Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023 is a masterpiece of engineering that pushes the boundaries of performance on two wheels. With its powerful engine, cutting-edge technology, and aerodynamic design, this superbike is designed to dominate the track. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or an adrenaline junkie seeking pure excitement, the Panigale V4 R does not disappoint. Ride one, and you’ll understand why it’s considered one of the most thrilling motorcycles ever created.

How can you resist falling for Ducati’s V4 R? Does it get any better than riding around Misano on a nearly £40,000 homologation special, the road version of the bike that dominates World Superbikes? R-models from Ducati have always been historically special, and the latest V4 R continues that tradition. The screaming 998cc V4 is the closest you’ll get to a race engine for the road. It loves revs and produces insane power.

Surprisingly, it’s much easier to ride than many less powerful bikes and forgives rider errors almost to the point of embarrassment. This is mainly due to the excellent electronics and changes to the chassis, which make the Panigale more accessible to all levels of track riders than ever before. On top of its track performance, the V4 R’s exclusivity, the world championship-winning brand, and, of course, its looks make it possibly the most desirable sports bike on the planet.

Add the race exhaust, and it’s perhaps the best-sounding too. We didn’t have any competition available for this test, so I can’t definitively say that this is the fastest production bike on the track at the moment. But my gut feeling is that, with the race kit fitted, only the BMW M 1000 RR could come close. For the road, the V4 S or V4 SP2 might be better as they offer more torque and semi-active suspension that is easier to adjust.

However, we can say that the homologated V4 R is a phenomenal motorcycle and a road-legal manifestation of Ducati Corse’s domination of MotoGP and WSBK. It performs better than it looks in terms of speed, braking, and handling, and continues Ducati’s tradition of producing market-leading superbikes.

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