Ducati has launched the Panigale V4 R superbike in India, bringing racing technology from the World Superbike Championship to the road. The motorcycle is priced at ₹84.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and is now available for bookings across Ducati dealerships nationwide.
The first unit was delivered by Ducati Chennai on January 1, 2026, marking the arrival of what the company describes as its most exclusive production sports bike.
The Panigale V4 R continues a lineage that began with the 996R in 2001. These models serve as the technical foundation for Ducati’s World Championship superbikes. Each unit is produced in a numbered series, with the model name and serial number displayed on the steering plate.
Bipul Chandra, Managing Director of Ducati India, stated that the motorcycle brings technology from MotoGP and WorldSBK to Indian roads, offering performance designed primarily for track use.
Engine and Performance
The bike is powered by a 998cc Desmosedici Stradale R engine that produces 218 hp at 15,500 rpm and can reach 16,500 rpm in sixth gear. The engine features lighter pistons and a crankshaft with increased inertia, technologies derived from Ducati’s MotoGP program.
With an optional racing exhaust, power increases to 235 hp, and up to 239 hp when using Ducati Corse Performance Oil. In racing configuration, the bike can exceed 330 km/h.
The Panigale V4 R introduces Corner Sidepods to production motorcycles for the first time. This MotoGP-derived feature creates a ground effect at high lean angles to increase tire grip. New wings generate 25% more downforce than the previous model at 270 km/h.
The chassis uses a Front Frame design and Hollow Symmetrical Swingarm developed for modern slick tires, improving cornering and traction.
It weighs 186.5 kg without fuel and features Öhlins suspension components throughout, including an NPX 25-30 fork and TTX36 shock absorber. Braking is handled by Brembo Hypure monobloc calipers, and the bike rides on forged aluminum wheels with Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa V4 tires.
The motorcycle is available in Ducati Red and comes with a 17-liter aluminum fuel tank and lithium battery.
The motorcycle features the Ducati Racing Gearbox (DRG), which places neutral below first gear to prevent accidental engagement during hard braking. The Ducati Vehicle Observer algorithm manages engine braking control and other systems.
A new Race Brake Control system allows greater use of the rear brake during corner entry. All functions are displayed on a 6.9-inch TFT dashboard that includes a Grip Meter view showing estimated available traction.
The electronics package includes ABS Cornering, Ducati Traction Control, Slide Control, Wheelie Control, Power Launch, Quick Shift 2.0, and Engine Brake Control, all managed through a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit.
Ducati competes with official teams in MotoGP and WorldSBK Championships and became World Champion in both series in 2023.