Ducati has launched the all-new Panigale V4 R in India, introducing what it calls the purest expression of its racing technology to the Indian market.
- The first 2025 Panigale V4 R for India was delivered by Ducati Chennai on January 1, 2026
- Bookings are now open across its dealerships in the country
Ducati Panigale V4 R
A homologation special with racing DNA
The Panigale V4 R is a homologation special designed to compete in the World Superbike Championship. It continues Ducati’s long-standing “R” lineage that began with the iconic 996R in 2001. Each unit is produced in a numbered series, with the model name and serial number engraved on the clip-on handlebars.
At the heart of the Panigale V4 R is the 998cc Desmosedici Stradale R engine, derived directly from Ducati Corse’s MotoGP and WorldSBK programmes. The V4 motor produces 218hp at 15,500 rpm and can rev all the way up to 16,500rpm in sixth gear. Ducati says that with the optional racing exhaust, output increases to 235hp and further rises to 239hp when paired with Ducati Corse Performance Oil. In full racing trim, the motorcycle is capable of exceeding 330kph.
Key engine highlights include lighter cast aluminium pistons with DLC coating, a forged steel crankshaft with increased inertia, gun-drilled titanium connecting rods, titanium intake valves and oval throttle bodies equivalent to 56mm in diameter. A new, more efficient dynamic air intake system and shortened variable-length intake trumpets are said to further enhance performance.
MotoGP-derived aerodynamics
One of the most striking features of the Panigale V4 R is its MotoGP-inspired aerodynamics. For the first time on a road-legal motorcycle, Ducati has introduced Corner Sidepods, a solution borrowed directly from MotoGP. These sidepods generate a ground-effect-style aerodynamic load at high lean angles, improving tyre grip and cornering speeds.
The motorcycle also features larger biplane wings, which are said to deliver 25 percent more downforce than the previous model at 270kph. Together, these aerodynamic upgrades significantly improve stability, braking performance and front-end precision at high speeds.
Chassis, suspension and braking
The Panigale V4 R has an aluminium alloy chassis and a hollow symmetrical swingarm, both designed to maximise the performance of modern slick tyres. Ducati claims this setup improves rider feedback, corner-exit traction and overall control. Suspension duties are handled by fully adjustable Ohlins components, including an NPX 25-30 pressurised front fork, a TTX36 rear shock absorber and an adjustable Ohlins steering damper. The bike rides on forged aluminium wheels and uses Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa V4 tyres, with a 200/60 section rear. Braking performance comes from Brembo Hypure monobloc calipers, designed for extreme track use.
Racing gearbox and advanced electronics
Another major highlight is the Ducati Racing Gearbox (DRG), which places neutral below first gear – a layout typically found on race bikes. This reduces the risk of accidental neutral selection during aggressive braking and corner entry. The electronics package is built around the Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO) strategy and a 6-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU). The features include cornering ABS with combined braking and Race Brake Control, Ducati Traction Control, Slide Control, Wheelie Control, Power Launch, Quick Shift 2.0, and Engine Brake Control. All systems are managed via a new 6.9-inch full-TFT dashboard with an 8:3 aspect ratio. A dedicated “Grip Meter” display provides a real-time graphical estimate of available tyre grip, a feature inspired by Ducati’s racing data systems.
Pricing and availability
The Ducati Panigale V4 R is priced at Rs 84.99 lakh (ex-showroom, India) and is available exclusively in Ducati Red. Given its homologation nature and limited availability, the Panigale V4 R is an exotic machine that will appeal to serious collectors and track-focused enthusiasts.
Ved Janve
Dinshaw Magol
Vishal Venugopal
