Gone Riding: Ducati Panigale V2

Greetings from Jerez, Spain where we are about to take the “new” Ducati Panigale V2 sport bike for a spin at this popular grand prix circuit.

Don’t let the name fool you, the bike we are riding is an update to the Ducati 959 Panigale, a “middleweight” alternative from the Italian brand that takes more than a few cues from its Panigale V4 counterpart.

Making the Panigale V2 though is more than just an exercise in new bodywork. There is now a single-sided swingarm, which helps complete the visual package, but the electronics system has also been updated, and now includes a six-axis IMU.

This means the addition of cornering ABS and an upgraded traction control setup. Other electronics include wheelie control and engine braking control, along with an up/down quickshifter and 4.3″ TFT dash.

With slight power and torque increases to the now Euro5-compliant engine, the Ducati Panigale V2 also boasts ergonomic refinements with its thicker seat and a new stylish exhaust.

All-in-all, the Ducati Panigale V2 promises to be a more refined and updated sport bike for the track, and we intend to put it through its paces at Jerez to see if that is the case.

Per our new review format, I will be giving you a live assessment of the Ducati Panigale V2 right here in this article (down in the comments section), and I will try to answer any questions you might have about this exciting motorcycle.

So, here is your chance to learn what it’s like to ride the Ducati Panigale V2, before even our own proper review is posted. As always, if I don’t know an answer, I will try to get a response from the Ducati personnel. So, pepper away.

You can follow our thoughts on the bike live via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and you can see what our colleagues are posting on social media by looking for the hashtags #PanigaleV2.

Spec-Sheet Comparison of Relevant Models to the Ducati Panigale V2:

Photos of the Ducati Panigale V2:

Photos: Ducati