Review Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 2023
Ducati is producing a new Panigale V4 SP2, a numbered series production model billed as "The Ultimate Racetrack Machine," as we previously revealed last month. The SP2 is a 2022 model internationally, however it will be available at North American dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2023.
The SP2 is a follow-up to the SP model from 2021, and it has all of the changes that the Panigale V4 and V4 S received for 2022, as well as a number of modifications that make it deserving of the "Sport Production" name and $39,500 price tag.
The 2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 is the Italian brand's flagship superbike's next move toward the racetrack. Despite the fact that the Desmosedici Stradale motor and frame are essentially identical to the '22 Panigale V4 S we examined earlier this year, there are several technical and hardware enhancements that will make this $39,500 racer and track day favorite a tough racer. Let's explore what qualifies this Panigale for SP2 designation.
When compared to the forged aluminum wheels on the V4 S, carbon fiber wheels save nearly three pounds in unsprung weight. This decreases inertia by 26% for the front wheel and 46% for the rear, according to Ducati.
Stronger Brembo Stylema R brakes are included with the lightweight wheels. Thanks to the Brembo MCS radial pump, the front brake system is extremely adaptable. The rider can choose from three actuation ratios to customize the sensation. A remote brake lever adjustment near the left grip also allows the rider to fine-tune the lever position without taking their attention away from the throttle. To minimize drag, the clutch and front brake levers feature machined ends.
The Ducati Panigale V4 SP2's electronics are track-ready for 2023. There's a new Track Evo display that's based on the MotoGP dash readout.
The tachometer runs horizontally on the dash, with the gear position centre.
If the electronic controls for traction, slide, wheelie, and engine brake control have been enabled, you'll see four distinct colored sectors. The speed, lap time, and number of laps completed are displayed on the left side of the dash. GPS is standard, and it continually tracks your whereabouts. Finally, you may use the Ducati Data Analyzer to evaluate your track sessions.
The optional Ducati Performance Software is for the most dedicated riders. This program adds slick and wet tires to the traction control game. The DPS can memorize five tracks and store five unique riding modes.
The underlying software has also been updated by Ducati. Full, High, Medium, and Low are the four power settings, with Full and Low being new. The torque curve for each gear in the six-speed gearbox is different. At 12,500 rpm, maximum output remains 210 horsepower and 91 ft-lbs of torque.
Optional full-titanium Ducati Performance exhaust system for track use is available. Ducati collaborated with Akrapovi on the project. The results are spectacular, with an 18-horsepower increase in peak output and a maximum torque increase to 97 ft-lbs. In addition, the system weighs 11 pounds less than the factory exhaust. Make a $7100 budget for that treat.
The SP2 features dry clutches, something you may have missed on Ducatis. The dry clutch reduces the motor's resistance.
A 520 chain, as opposed to a 525 chain, is lighter and allows the engine to spool up faster.
The Rizoma adjustable racing footpegs on the SP2 are anodized aluminum and provide a better grip. Heel protectors made of carbon fiber keep your boots in place.
The 2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 comes with a track package. An open clutch carbon fiber clutch cover, billet aluminum mirror mount caps, and tools to remove the license plate are all included in the package.
Passengers are not permitted to accompany you on the SP2. There will be no two-up riding at the track because that is a solitary seat.
The Winter Test livery provides the SP2 a factory-like appearance. The matte black dominates, with the brushed metal fuel tank and tastefully placed red providing contrast. The tricolore Italian flag design on the wings is not to be missed. The top triple-clamp on each 2023 Panigale V4 SP2 has a unique number, even though it isn't sold as a limited edition model.
Be patient—the 2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 won't arrive until mid-2022, and that's only if you pre-order it. Orders placed after then will not arrive until the fourth quarter of 2022.
2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 Specs
ENGINE
Type: Desmosedici Stradale 90-degree V4 w/ counter-rotating crankshaft
Displacement: 1103cc
Bore x stroke: 81 x 53.5mm
Maximum power: 210 horsepower @ 12,500 rpm
Maximum torque: 91 ft-lbs @ 11,000 rpm
Compression ratio: 14.0:1
Valvetrain: Desmodromic actuation w/ 4vpc
Fueling: Twin injectors per cylinder w/ elliptical throttle bodies
Transmission: 6-speed w/ straight-cut gears and quickshifter
Clutch: Dry multiplate w/ assist function
Final drive: 520 chain
CHASSIS
Frame: Aluminum monocoque w/ Öhlins electronic steering damper
Front suspension; travel: Fully adjustable semi-active Öhlins NIX25/30 pressurized 43mm fork; 4.9 inches
Rear suspension; travel: Fully adjustable semi-active Öhlins TTX36 shock; 5.1 inches
Wheels: 5 split-spoke carbon fiber
Front wheel: 17 x 3.50
Rear wheel: 17 x 6.00
Tires: Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP
Front tire: 120/70 x 17
Rear tire: 200/60 x 17
Front brakes: Semi-floating 330mm discs w/ Brembo Stylema R 4-piston calipers and Brembo MC 19.21 self-bleeding master cylinder
Rear brake: 245mm disc w/ 2-piston caliper
ABS: Cornering ABS Evo
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
Wheelbase: 57.8 inches
Rake: 24.5 degrees
Trail: 3.9 inches
Seat height: 33.5 inches
Fuel capacity: 4.5 gallons
Curb weight: 429 pounds
Color: Winter Test
2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 Price: $39,500 MSRP