2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 first look

And while it does come with the bare essentials for street use (headlights, turn signals, rear mudguard with license plate hanger), the Panigale V4 SP2 is mainly aimed at hardcore trackday enthusiasts. This new model sits above the Panigale V4 S, and below the V4 R, although it can be considered more exclusive than the R because of the SP2’s limited-edition status. 

Like other Sport Production models, the Panigale V4 SP2 gets a long list of fancy parts and a special paint and graphics option. In this case, the paint recalls Ducati’s blacked-out winter test livery used in MotoGP. Flat black can be a divisive choice among motorcyclists, but I think most will agree that the brushed aluminum tank a la V4 R is a nice touch. 

As for parts, the SP2 is covered with upgrades, like carbon fiber wheels, an STM-EVO SBK dry clutch, race footpegs, lightened final drive, and all kinds of carbon bits. There’s even a remote adjuster for the front brakes, just like a race bike. The billet aluminum upper triple, gripping an electronic Öhlins NPX25/30 fork, proudly shows each bike’s limited production number. Öhlins also supplies the rear suspension with a TTX36 shock. 

The new components drop 2.2 pounds off the Panigale V4 SP2, for a dry weight of 381 pounds. Horsepower is up to 215, or five more ponies than the V4 S. An optional accessory titanium high-mount exhaust drops an additional 11 pounds off the bike’s weight and pushes the SP2 up to 228 horsepower, just six shy of the radical V4 R’s 234. Potent, yes, but Ducati insists that this bike is built for enjoying the track instead of pure competition. 

The Panigale V4 SP2’s electronic suite uses all of Ducati’s latest tech, plus a few MotoGP-inspired touches like the large gear indicator on the display with segments showing the status of various rider aids along the sides. “Slick Ducati Performance Software” is available for riders seeking more track-specific features like torque curve adjustment for race tires. 

Ducati's asking $39,500 for the SP2, and production will be limited. If you'd like one, better put a call in to the dealer soon. 

2023 Ducati Panigale V4 SP2
Price (MSRP)	$39,500 U.S. ($45,595 CAD, $813,000 MXN)
Engine	1,103 cc, liquid-cooled, 16-valve, V-four
Transmission, final drive	Six-speed, chain
Claimed horsepower	215 @ 13,000 rpm
Claimed torque	91.2 foot-pounds @9,500 rpm
Frame	Aluminum twin spar
Front suspension	Öhlins NPX25/30 43 mm fork, pressurized, adjustable for spring preload, electronically adjustable for compression and rebound damping; 4.9 inches of travel
Rear suspension	Öhlins TTX36 shock, adjustable for spring preload, electronically adjustable for compression and rebound damping; 4.9 inches of travel
Front brake	Brembo Stylema R four-piston calipers, 330 mm discs with ABS
Rear brake	Brembo two-piston caliper, 245 mm disc with ABS
Rake, trail	24.5 degrees, 3.94 inches
Wheelbase	57.8 inches
Seat height	33.5 inches
Fuel capacity	4.49 gallons
Tires	Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP; 120/70 ZR17 front, 200/60 ZR17 rear
Claimed weight	381 pounds (dry, 428.7 wet)
Available	Late 2022
Warranty	24 months
More info	ducati.com