The 2025 Panigale V4 has arrived, and Ducati fans have every reason to be excited. Heavily revised from its predecessor, this superbike is a thrilling combination of power, precision, and innovation. After spending a day testing the bike at Valonga Race Circuit near Rome, I can confidently say that the 2025 Panigale V4S is a masterpiece of engineering.
A Heavily Revamped Ducati Icon
The 2025 Panigale V4 is the seventh generation of Ducati’s iconic superbike, a lineage that began with the legendary Ducati 851 back in 1988. With its world-championship-winning V4R heritage, this updated version comes with a price tag of $33,860 in the U.S., offering a more affordable option than its higher-end siblings, like the V4R or V4 SP2.
But don’t let the price fool you—the 2025 Panigale V4 still packs a serious punch. The U.S. version produces 209 horsepower, while European riders will get to enjoy an even more powerful 216 hp. With 89 lb-ft of torque and weighing just 421 pounds without fuel, this bike is a lightweight rocket on two wheels.
New Features and Electronics
While the engine itself hasn’t changed drastically—gaining only an extra horsepower—the real story of the 2025 Panigale V4S is its cutting-edge electronics and chassis improvements. Ducati has integrated the Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO) system, borrowed from their MotoGP technology.
This system uses data from 70 sensors and a six-axis inertial measurement unit to make the bike smoother and more precise, ultimately helping riders go faster with less effort.
The new Electronic Combined Braking System (ECBS) is another standout feature. It’s not just about slowing down; it’s about improving cornering dynamics by applying rear brake pressure automatically to tighten up your line, even without using the rear brake pedal. This gives riders more control and improves performance, especially in aggressive riding conditions.
A New Look and Feel
Visually, the 2025 Panigale V4 has evolved, taking inspiration from the iconic 916 model with its sharper lines and new winglets. Ducati has refined the bike’s ergonomics as well, with a redesigned tank and pegs positioned 10mm further inward for a more comfortable ride. Even the seat has been slightly modified for better grip under braking.
Cooling has also been enhanced, which will come as a relief to anyone who’s experienced the heat of earlier Panigale models. Ducati has redesigned the bodywork to improve airflow, keeping the engine cooler at higher RPMs.
Performance on the Track
From the very first lap, the 2025 Panigale V4S impressed me with how well it handles. The chassis has been lightened by 700g, and the new swingarm reduces lateral stiffness by 37%. This results in a bike that is far more compliant when leaning into turns, offering excellent feedback to the rider.
Another impressive feature is the bike’s five-spoke forged wheels, a first for Ducati, and the Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 suspension. Together, these contribute to a more stable, smoother ride at high speeds.
The Brembo HYBRI four-piston monoblock calipers provide race-level braking performance, making it feel as though you’re riding a superbike straight out of a MotoGP race.
A Smoother, Faster Ride
The 2025 Panigale V4S is easier to ride than previous models, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less exciting. Thanks to the new chassis and electronics, the bike handles better and feels more planted when accelerating out of corners. The DVO system constantly monitors traction and wheel load, helping you push harder without the fear of losing grip.
With 209 horsepower on tap (or 216 in Europe), the 2025 Panigale V4S is a beast, but one that has become more manageable thanks to Ducati’s advancements.
Even for an experienced rider like me, it took time to fully understand the bike’s capabilities, but with the Ducati Data Analyzer (DDA), I was able to fine-tune my performance and shave seconds off my lap times.
Expected Price
The 2025 Ducati Panigale V4 is priced at $25,995 in the U.S., while the higher-performance V4 S variant comes in at $33,895. Both models feature significant upgrades, including improved aerodynamics, a revised chassis with a double-sided swingarm, and a range of advanced electronics that enhance the riding experience. For those looking for even more performance, the Panigale V4 can be fitted with a Ducati Performance racing exhaust that boosts power to an impressive 228 hp, though this is a track-only option.
In the UK, the 2025 Panigale V4 is priced at £24,395, while the V4 S model starts at £29,995. These prices reflect the inclusion of high-end components like Öhlins electronically controlled suspension, Brembo’s latest Hypure front brakes, and forged wheels in the V4 S. The bike also benefits from enhanced rider comfort and aerodynamics, making it not only powerful but also more accessible to a wide range of riders.
Similar Bikes/Competitors
As we edge closer to 2025, the Ducati Panigale V4 continues to set the benchmark in the superbike category. However, the competition is fierce, with several manufacturers releasing their own cutting-edge machines designed to rival Ducati’s flagship model.
In 2025, the Ducati Panigale V4 will face stiff competition from the likes of the Kawasaki ZX-10R, Aprilia RSV4 Factory, and BMW M 1000 RR.
Kawasaki’s ZX-10R, with a 998cc engine delivering 200 horsepower, features advanced rider aids aimed at precision performance on both track and road. The Aprilia RSV4 Factory, with its 217-hp V4 engine, is a track monster known for agility, while BMW’s M 1000 RR, boasting 212 horsepower, offers cutting-edge aerodynamics and electronics, making it a serious rival to Ducati’s top-tier superbike.
