For 2015 Ducati also introduces the Panigale R, which is the homologated base for its World Superbike machines and is essentially a road-legal race bike with indicators and lights. Fitted with the 1198 cm3 Superquadro engine, thus falling within Superbike displacement limits, it boasts titanium intake and exhaust valves and rods, two-ring pistons and an extremely lightweight crankshaft which is balanced with tungsten inserts, to guarantee a maximum power of 205 hp at 11,500 revs/minute and a torque of 136.2 Nm at 10,250 rpm.
The new electronic kit, studied specifically for the Panigale and integrated in the three different Riding Modes, makes it even more high-performance. Thanks in fact to the presence of the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), Cornering ABS is made available, along with Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC). Moreover, the Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) now works also during down-changing, to further improve track performance and to make the bike more easy to use on a daily basis. On the Panigale, the Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) and the Engine Brake Control (EBC) have been optimised by an automatic calibration system which allows for easy changes in tyre size and final drive ratio.
The Panigale R is also fitted with Öhlins mechanical suspension, an adjustable swingarm pivot and the same electronic technology as the 1299 Panigale, as well as a lithium ion battery which means a reduction in weight of over 2 kg, making it a total of 6 kg lighter than the 1199 Panigale R.
Reinforcing the incredible level of performance of the electronic kit, the Panigale R has been fitted with the same elements used on the 1299 Panigale. It has, for instance, the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) which commands the Cornering ABS, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), Ducati Traction Control (DTC), and Engine Brake Control (EBC), along with an automatic calibration system for tyre dimension and final transmission ratio. In addition, it includes the Ducati Data Analysis+ GPS (DDA+ GPS) system with lean angle visualization. The impressive provision of electronic devices also includes auxiliary buttons on the handlebars, as on race bikes, to regulate the DTC, DWC or EBC systems rapidly during track use.
Specifications: Superquadro: L-twin cylinder, 4 valve per cylinder, Desmodromic, liquid cooled, titanium con-rods | 1198 cc | 205 HP power | 136.2 Nm torque | Euro 3 emissions | 6 speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down gearbox | Monocoque aluminum frame | 1442 mm wheelbase | 17 litre fuel tank | 162 dry weight | 2 years unlimited mileage warranty