Ducati Panigale V4 R 2023: a strong progression towards 16.500 rpm [VIDEO]

The sporting character of the new one Ducati Panigale V4 R., presented in the fourth episode of the web series Ducati World Premiere 2023, is the protagonist in the film proposed by Ducati on Youtube.

A powerful vision

The look recalls the brand's competitive experience in the MotoGP, particularly the ones that stand out white number plates on which the number "1" and also the two-element carbon wings, among the interventions on the aerodynamic front. The wings are composed of a main part and a flap which support the aerodynamic load, despite their compactness.
For the first time, this model will be developed in a numbered series with a progressive number visible on the billet aluminum steering head.
The evolution of the concept also concerns the superstructures, given the introduction of a brushed aluminum tank with a capacity increased to 17 liters. The profile offers easier support for arms and legs when cornering, as well as when braking. There is also a flatter saddle, contained in the foam and with a different covering.
For better engine cooling, stabilizing performance when driving on the track, changes were made to the configuration of the extractors in the lower part of the fairing. In the lower area, on the left side, an air intake has been created to cool the Ducati Quick Shift sensor.
The proposed solutions are also interesting Ducati Performance that can be associated with the model, such as a system Akrapovič full titanium exhaust with double silencer located under the saddle, which refines the already low weight/power ratio of the new Panigale V4 R, with a saving of 5 kg compared to the standard system and an increase in power that reaches 237 horsepower. The exhaust is equipped with specific mapping with the DTC, DWC, DPL and DSC parameters, adapted to the new performance level.
There are also carbon fiber components, magnesium rims, adjustable aluminum rider footrests, developed by Ducati Corse in collaboration with Rizoma and also a Pit Stop accessories package with tire warmers and garage stands to use during track sessions. In the case of Slick or Rain tyres, the DTC EVO 3 software can be selected, which adopts specific calibrations of the electronic controls.

Technique and technology

The bike is equipped with a Front Frame frame with single-sided aluminum swingarm. It's possible manage the rear swingarm pivot height in four positions with steps of 2 millimeters.
The chassis follows the evolution undertaken with the 2022 Panigale V4 and Panigale V4 S models, while considering the entirely mechanical adjustment for the suspensions. The travel of the Öhlins NPX25/30 pressurized front fork has been increased by 5 mm, compared to the previous Panigale V4 R. This aspect, given the presence of an Öhlins TTX36 shock absorber whose wheelbase reaches 316 mm (from 312 mm) and a standard adjustment of the swingarm pivot to the +1 position, increases the height of the rear area by 20 mm. The result is a higher center of gravity and greater agility during driving phases.
The introduction of a less rigid shock absorber spring, going from 105 N/mm to 80 N/mm, as well as a lower ground load in the frontal area linked to a lengthening of the fork travel, as well as an improvement in ability to interpret the road surface, intensifies load transfers based on a higher negative travel of the suspensions, making cornering more solid, as indicated.
The electronic evolution allows the new Panigale V4 R to be efficient on the track, considering the refinements to the DTC and the Ride By Wire system, the adoption of the Engine Brake Control EVO 2, the new strategy for the DQS and the updating of the cooling fan control, the expansion and updating of the Power Modes, the new "Track Evo" display on the instruments and the maps linked to the engine with calibration dedicated to each gear .
The operating parameters can be seen through the new graphics of the instrumentation, which are different thanks to a rearrangement of the functions of the warning lights outside the screen. Also highlighted is the advanced interface through the inclusion of a new Info Mode, developed by MotoGP riders and named “Track Evo”, added to “Road” e “Tracks”.
There are four strategies: Full, High, Medium e low (in this case the maximum power is limited to 160 horsepower). The first and last ones have been newly set, while the High and Medium ones have been revised.
There is also a new strategy for the Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) with improved fluidity in switching between gears at every degree of throttle opening, when it is partialized and when it is fully open, managing the two different situations differently.
Along with these interventions, the update of the cooling fan control strategy is also highlighted, in order to offer better management of operating temperatures by mitigating the accumulation of heat after sessions on the track. This strategy already promises greater thermal comfort in road use.
Furthermore, for enthusiasts who wish to use the new Panigale V4 R only on the track, specific Ducati Performance DTC EVO 3 software has been developed for slick-rain tyres, proposed as an accessory and which makes the bike not approved for open road circulation to traffic. This solution allows the rear position light to flash, as per the racing regulations in case of rain. Also noteworthy is the replacement of the Street Riding Mode with a Rain mode, specifically designed for use in wet conditions.
In order to improve the rider's feeling when opening and managing the throttle, there is also a new accelerator control that is 50% more compact with radial and axial play reduced to a minimum, as well as virtually no initial free stroke, according to the information. As on the racing models, there is a Pit Limiter to limit speed in the pit lane.

Thruster

The heart is new Desmosedici Stradale R da 998 cc. Highlighted are the sophisticated technical solutions taken from the world of competition and for the first time on a road model there are “gun drilled” titanium connecting rods drilled longitudinally along the stem. A hole with a diameter of 1,6 mm. Solution that allows the passage of oil from the head to the small end of the connecting rod, an improvement in the lubrication of the piston pin and in favor of reliability in extreme use.
In the configuration for 2023, the Desmosedici Stradale R engine features a new dry clutch, deriving from the development of the version used in the Superbike world championship by the official Ducati team. The diameter and axial length of the clutch are smaller, a reduction of 24 mm, so the weight is reduced by approximately 800 grams.
The maximum rotation speed that can be reached is i 16.500 rpm in sixth gear, while it is 16.000 rpm in the other ratios. The power vertex is of 218 horses at 15.500 rpm with approval Euro 5. Significant data in the panorama of sports cars with the same engine capacity.
All the potential to be expressed on the track instead, with the adoption of a racing exhaust, projects at altitude 237 horses. Three more than the previous example.
An oil developed by Shell in collaboration with Ducati Corse has also been developed in the development phase, the timing and availability of which may vary depending on the country. A new oil which promises a reduction in mechanical friction by 10% and leads to an increase of another 3,5 horsepower, which becomes 4,5 horsepower at the limiter. The oil formulation is based on the use of racing-type additives, specific for high-rpm engines with dry clutch. With the racing exhaust and dedicated oil there is a notable maximum power of 240,5 horses.

Photos and videos: Ducati