It was back in 2017 that Ducati revealed their Panigale V4 model to the people. The bike was essentially a MotoGP prototype for the street, packed with a MotoGP-derived 1103cc V4 engine making 160 kW.
For 2020, Ducati have created the Streetfighter V4 – same chassis – same engine, but with a stripped-down aesthetic. Just don’t assume stripped-down is a weakness in its armour, as this is one sinister new prototype.
In profile, it looks identical to the Kawasaki Z1000; and because of the minimal fairings that brilliant engine just dominates the aerodynamic profile. Its tail section is similar to the Panigale V4, but with a wider one-piece handlebar more suited to road use than track carnage.
The Panigale V4’s 1103cc motor is expected to be carried over to the Streetfighter, but while the Panigale delivers 160kW, expect the power here to be toned down to 135kW. Fear not, as it still makes the Streetfighter V4 one of the most powerful hyper nakeds in the world – scary.
To harness that power, the bike will enlist the aid of the Panigale’s go to electronic riding aids like EVO Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Slide Control, and Ducati Quick Shift.
The Streetfighter V4 will make its official debut at the EICMA motorcycle show in November, but will be seen before that as it smokes up the mountains at the Pikes Peak race in Colorado Springs. The Ducati obsessives will be there in force, watching as other spectators become converts.
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