The 2023 Ducati Panigale V4 R comes with the new Desmosedici Stradale R 998cc engine, which has a maximum RPM limit of 16,500 in 6th gear. It produces 218 horsepower at 13,500 RPM.
Ducati claims that if the Panigale V4 R is equipped with the Akrapovic Titan Full System exhaust and uses a special new engine oil jointly researched by Ducati Corse and Shell, it can help the engine achieve an astonishing 240.5 horsepower. This oil contains an exclusive blend of racing additives, which Ducati claims helps reduce mechanical friction by an additional 10%.
Another significant improvement is the use of new “gun drilled” Titan connecting rods, which create a small bore drilled along the length of the rod, providing an oil passage to improve lubrication in harsh conditions. Additionally, the bike features DLC-treated pistons, a technology that is common in Formula 1 and MotoGP. Ducati claims that this is the first superbike to incorporate this technology. The new piston geometry also reduces the weight of the pistons by 2%, contributing to a decrease in inertia.
Furthermore, Ducati has made other changes based on their racing experience. These include more powerful intake cams, revised gear ratios, and a new smaller and lighter dry clutch from WSBK.
The fairing has also been updated to improve engine cooling, while the aerodynamics package now features slimmer and more compact winglets that still provide the same downforce as the previous version.
The fully adjustable suspension system, shared with the Panigale V4 and V4 S 2022, includes an Ohlins NPX25/30 fork that provides 124 mm of travel, 5 mm more than the previous V4 R. The Ohlins TTX36 shock absorber has also been repositioned to increase the rear ride height by 20 mm, resulting in a higher center of gravity.
Ducati has increased the fuel tank capacity to 17 liters and redesigned the structure to improve rider support during braking and cornering. The flatter seat, with new upholstery and a thinner foam layer, allows the rider to shift their weight more easily while leaning.
The Panigale V4 R 2023 also features updated electronics from the Panigale V4 2022 and 2023, including the new Track EVO dashboard, engine brake, quickshifter, and refined traction control settings.
The Ducati Performance DTC EVO 3 traction control system now includes a new rain mode, replacing the previous street riding mode. The rain mode is specifically designed for wet surfaces and slick or rainy conditions. It also flashes the rear position light as required by racing regulations in wet weather conditions.
The Panigale V4 R 2023 offers four Power Modes: Full, High, Medium, and Low. In Full mode, the engine utilizes its full torque curve without any intervention from the electronic systems, except in first gear.
The High/Medium modes set up a new engine map with different calibrations for all six gears. The Low power mode is designed for use on the street or on low-grip surfaces. It limits power to 160 horsepower and provides a more manageable throttle response. Ducati has also updated the cooling fan control for better engine temperature management.
Ducati offers various accessories for the Panigale V4 R 2023, including the Akrapovic Full System exhaust system that maximizes horsepower. Additionally, an optional forged magnesium wheel set is available, which reduces weight by 0.6 kg compared to the original forged aluminum Marchesini wheels.
Luân Võ (forum.autodaily.vn)