2022 Ducati Panigale V4 and V4 S | First Look Review
Ducati’s Panigale V4 platform has been pushing the superbike segment forward with cutting-edge tech since it debuted in 2018. The Bologna, Italy, marque hasn’t grown complacent during that time either, revising the flagship sportbike with minor adjustments over the years. The 2022 Ducati Panigale V4 and V4 S receive the most thorough update yet, with revisions to the engine, chassis, electronics, aero, and ergos.
The Panigale’s MotoGP-derived Desmosedici Stradale engine maintains it’s 1,103cc capacity in 2022, but a new torque management system and dedicated mapping bump the V4 to 210 horsepower at 12,500 rpm and 90.6 lb-ft of torque at 11,000 rpm. Ducati’s new SBK gearbox helps deliver that power to the back wheel thanks to the lengthened 1st, 2nd, and 6th gear. As a result, the Panigale V4 said to deliver slow-speed cornering, harder corner-exit acceleration, and a higher top speed.
The V4’s updated electronics put the Panigale’s power parameters at the user’s fingertips with new Power Modes. In Full Power Mode, riders can access the motorcycle’s full potential, with no electronic filters dulling the engine’s torque curves (except in 1st gear). High and Medium Modes gain a refined throttle-by-wire map management system, which optimizes thrust upon open throttle. Low Mode limits the Desmosedici Stradale to 150 horsepower while a more manageable throttle response maximizes road riding comfort and enjoyment.
In addition to the Panigale’s Power Modes, the four Riding Modes (Race A, Race B, Sport, Street) also change the superbike’s personality. The reworked dashboard communicates all those settings with new external lights and functions. At the suggestion of Ducati MotoGP riders, technicians developed a new Track Evo info mode. By shifting the tachometer bar to the top of the display, the gear indicator at center, and the rider aids along the right side, the new layout provides the ideal screen legibility for racers and track riders.
Ducati’s MotoGP team is known for its aerodynamic packages and the 2022 Panigale V4 lives up to that reputation. The new double-profile winglets are thinner, more compact, and more efficient, but still provide 81 pounds of downforce at 186 mph. Of course, V4 engines are known to generate heat, and additional air-extraction gills on the lower fairing enhance cooling. Rider comfort also improves due to a flatter seat. The grippy seat cover also helps lock the rider in place during hard braking while a reshaped fuel tank offers a better anchor point for the user’s legs.
While the Panigale V4 and V4 S share much of the same equipment, the up-spec S model features electronically controlled Öhlins suspension, with an NPX 25/30 fork, TTX36 rear shock, and steering damper. And it rolls on premium forged aluminum alloy wheels shod with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires. The standard V4, on the other hand, opts for a fully adjustable Showa Big Piston fork, Sachs rear shock, Sachs steering damper, and cast aluminum wheels.
While the two chassis may employ different suspensions and wheels, both boast premium Brembo braking systems. Each superbike now benefits from a higher swingarm pivot, which increases the Panigale’s anti-squat characteristics under acceleration. Ducati modestly updates the superbike’s cosmetics as well, with both variants featuring the brand’s signature red fairings and new black Ducati logos. However, the V4 S also gains a two-tone seat and red wheel tape.
Available in February, the 2022 Ducati Panigale V4 retails for $23,295 while the 2022 Ducati Panigale V4 S goes for $29,995.
For more information or to find a Ducati dealer near you, visit ducati.com.
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