Ducati Panigale V4 R 2026: A Road-Legal MotoGP Weapon

Ducati unveils Panigale V4 R 2026, its latest superbike with racing tech, 235hp with Akrapovič exhaust, and MotoGP-inspired aerodynamics.

Subscribe to our Telegram channel for instant updates!

Ducati has done it again. With the latest episode of the Ducati World Première 2026, the Italian brand unveiled the all-new Panigale V4 R, a superbike that takes its DNA straight from MotoGP and WorldSBK. 

Built in a numbered series and proudly wearing its serial plate, the Panigale V4 R represents the pinnacle of Ducati’s racing heritage, essentially a MotoGP machine you can register for the road.

Racing DNA, Road Legal

Tracing its lineage back to the iconic 996R of 2001, the V4 R has always been Ducati’s ultimate homologation special. This new generation carries forward that tradition with race-bred innovations like Corner Sidepods (first seen in MotoGP 2021), and the debut of the Ducati Racing Gearbox (DRG) with Ducati Neutral Lock (DNL), ensuring no accidental neutral shifts under pressure.

Engine and Power

At its heart is the 998cc Desmosedici Stradale R engine, producing 215hp in standard trim. Ducati engineers worked closely with Ducati Corse to revise the internals, lighter pistons, new crankshaft, redesigned cams, and updated injectors, to improve torque and efficiency.

But here’s where it gets crazy:

• With a full Akrapovič racing exhaust, power jumps to 235hp.
• Add Ducati Corse Performance Oil, and output climbs further to 239hp, with a top speed brushing 330.5km/h.

Chassis, Brakes & Suspension

Built on the same chassis as the latest Panigale V4, the V4 R comes fitted with premium hardware:

• Öhlins NPX25/30 forks, TTX36 shock, and SD20 steering damper
• Brembo Hypure brakes with 330mm front and 245mm rear discs
• Improved ergonomics with footpegs lowered by 10mm for better support during braking and cornering

MotoGP Aerodynamics

The Panigale V4 R is the first production bike with Corner Sidepods straight from the Desmosedici GP21. Along with larger winglets, downforce is increased by 25% compared to the outgoing model, around 6kg of extra load at 299km/h, keeping the front wheel planted even at warp speeds.

Track-Ready Electronics & Accessories

Inside, the 6.9-inch TFT display manages systems like DVO (Ducati Vehicle Observer), which fine-tunes cornering ABS and engine braking. Riders chasing ultimate lap times can also opt for:

• DAVC Race Pro software for engine calibration with slick or rain tyres
• Carbon fiber wheels (950g lighter than forged)
• Racing fairings, data logger, and upgraded brake kits
• Basically, Ducati gives you everything you need to take the V4 R from showroom to podium.

Availability

The Ducati Panigale V4 R 2026 hits European dealerships in November 2025, with U.S. distribution to follow in December 2025.