Panigale V4 Sheds Weight Thanks To A Carbon Fibre Diet

If you thought that Ducati was done producing faster or lighter versions of its V4-engined Panigale superbike, prepare for one more -- the Panigale V4 Superleggera, as it has been spotted in Europe. Ducati is no stranger to the name ‘Superleggera’ as it was earlier used in a lighter version of its then flagship sportbike, the 1299 Panigale, one unit of which was sold in India. And much like the 1299, the latest Superleggera too will make use of carbon fibre.

Majority of the fairing is made from carbon fibre. Only the belly portion, the tank cover and the front mudguard do not seem to be made from the composite material. We suspect that these could be added on to the final production bike later. The design is fairly similar to the V4 R with cuts on the sides for better engine cooling and winglets for maximum aero efficiency.

A different, sleeker carbon fibre subframe has been attached to the bike. This does away with the possibility of having a pillion rider, something which is offered as an optional accessory on the standard bike. The aluminium frame from the Panigale V4 remains the same here as Ducati has not opted to go for a full carbon frame like the 1299 Superleggera. Cost cutting measures? Perhaps.

However, this V4 Superleggera gets the same 17-inch BST Rapid Trek carbon wheels like the 1299 Superleggera. Plus, while it is not visible due to the blacked out shrouds, the test mule could be running with a carbon fibre swingarm. Suspension units seem to be borrowed from the Panigale V4 R as you get the Ohlins NPX 25-30 USD fork, which are manually adjustable. These save up to 600g over the semi-active electronic ones used on the V4 S. The rear monoshock is also likely to be provided by Ohlins with full adjustability.

It is expected to be equipped with the same 1103cc V4 engine as the Panigale V4 25°Anniversario 916 with the same full titanium exhaust made by Akrapovic. The difference with this unit is that it runs with a concealed wet clutch and not a dry unit like the Anniversario or the V4 R. Power and torque is likely to remain the same at 214PS and 124Nm. But since this is a lighter motorcycle, expect an even more visceral sensation of speed aboard this rocketship.

The Panigale V4 Superleggera is expected to make its global debut at the upcoming World Ducati Premiere 2020 scheduled for October 23. Ducati is expected to showcase a slew of products including a grand-tourer version of the Multistrada 1260 S and more importantly, the Streetfighter V4, a naked motorcycle derived from the Panigale V4, at the show. Stay tuned for all updates from the event.

Source: RideApart