The Panigale V4 SP2 is here, to satiate your need for blinged-out speed

[advrider]

Ducati continues to shine up the halo on its premier sportbikes, with the new Panigale V4 SP now debuting as high-spec 2023 model.

Of course, it is based on the V4 S superbike, which already saw some upgrades for 2022. You can see Bill’s write-up of the new bike here, but basically, the machine got updated Ohlins NPX 25/30 electronically-controlled fork and TTX36 shock, and revised 1103 cc engine with better gearing for on-the-gas corner exits and a higher top speed. There’s also a “low power” mode, with 150 ponies on tap instead of the usual 212 hp (225 hp, if you add the optional Akrapovic exhaust).

How does a company improve on that formula, then? Ducati took the S model and added even more performance parts for the SP 2, and reducing weight. While the engine and suspension are the same, the SP 2 sees the swingarm mounting point modified, to improve handling dynamics. There’s a new anti-hop dry clutch, supposedly derived from Ducati’s World Superbike machine. Ducati also bolted up carbon-fibre wheels and Rizoma rearset controls, and bolted up carbon-fiber trim all over. In the braking department, we get upgraded Stylema R calipers and a 19.21 MCS master cylinder. There’s also a 520 chain conversion fitted as standard. Of course, it gets special livery, too (Ducati’s “winter testing” black paint).

It’s a track-oriented bike, with single-seat arrangement and Ducati’s GPS logger and data analyzer also fitted as standard. It also comes in very limited numbers, and with a sky-high $39,500 MSRP in the US. Does that mean they won’t sell? Quite the opposite—from recent industry trends, we’d bet every one of these bikes will be pre-sold within weeks, if not days or even hours.

 

 

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