Ducati’s Panigale V2 S could be accused of sitting in the shadow of its much more fancied sibling, the ferocious V4, but that does not mean it should be overlooked by riders wanting a performance sports bike for either the road or track.
We headed to Sydney Motorsport Park to put the V2 through its paces and see if recent updates add to the baby Panigale’s appeal. It offers a more approachable experience compared to the V4, while still feeling genuinely special.
Perhaps what some will view as this variant’s Achilles heel, is indeed its greatest attribute. The lesser output from its twin 890cc powerplant make it manageable, particularly on the track.
Ergonomically, swinging a leg over and the new V2 S feels compact and sporty, yet more street friendly. Low ’bars, high ’pegs and a tight connection between rider and machine make for a more comfortable riding position.
It’s still a proper Ducati sports bike – aggressive, focused and unmistakably Italian, but one that rewards smooth riding and corner speed. It has a decent mechanical thrum too. Not bad for Ducati’s lightest twin to date.
Incidentally, it produces 88kW and 93.3Nm through a strong linear power curve that makes its torque band a real highlight. Instead of constantly chasing the redline, the V2 S rewards you for working the mid-range, and riding hard out of corners.
The chassis and powertrain work exceptionally well together with the bike’s revised aluminium monocoque frame and Öhlins suspension duo creating a formidable package. Paired with Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, the combination offers great feedback.
On track, the Panigale V2 S feels incredibly light and precise, particularly once you’re up to speed. It turns-in sharp, without feeling nervous, and the bike holds a line through sweepers with reassuring stability and no stand-up.
The front-end feels planted under braking and offers excellent feel as you tip into corners, while the shocks keeps everything tidy as you pick up the throttle on exit. The Brembo brake setup delivers strong initial bite with plenty of feel at the lever.
That allows you to trail brake deep into corners with confidence. The electronics package works seamlessly in the background, giving you a safety net without dulling the experience at all, regardless of where you’re riding.
For those wondering, you get multiple riding modes, traction control, wheelie control and engine brake adjustment, all accessed through a TFT display. It’s a comprehensive package that lets you set the bike up how you like it.
The V2 S is undeniably quick, but never feels overwhelming. Instead, it encourages smooth, committed riding. You find yourself flowing from corner to corner, using the torque and the beautifully controlled chassis to maintain momentum.
Ducati’s Panigale V2 S offers a sweet spot between outright performance and rideability. It’s fast enough to thrill on track, yet still manageable enough that you don’t have to have the skillset of Marc Marquez to have a good time.
It’s also far less intimidating than a full-blown litre bike on track. The power is still more than enough to have fun, but it’s delivered in a way that allows you to explore the bike’s capabilities without feeling like you’re constantly on the edge.
Available in Ducati Red (as tested) and Ducati Yellow, pricing starts from $27,225 ride away and is backed by a 2-year warranty. You can find out more on the brand’s website, or by talking to your local dealership.
Our test bike was provided by Ducati Australia for independent review purposes. Exhaust Notes Australia was not paid to test this motorcycle. Action images courtesy of SDPICS.
