Fast Bikes tracks every incarnation of Ducati’s last V-twin superbike…

FEATURE

Since the inaugural Panigale 1199 came our way back in 2012, no fewer than 13 other models have followed its path in just six years. We’ve retraced Bologna’s finest V-twin family and highlighted what each has to offer…

2012 – 2014

DUCATI 1199 PANIGALE

In 2012, Ducati turned its back on tradition and introduced a motor with chain-driven cams. Its all-new Superquadro V-twin engine boasted the highest power-to-weight and torque-to-weight figures of any production bike, as well as a simply gargantuan 112mm bore. Housed in a monocoque chassis with an integrated airbox instead of Ducati’s traditional trellis type, the Superquadro was linked to the kind of computing capabilities NASA could only dream of when they stuck Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon. Traction control, wheelie control, ABS, datalogging, rider modes, a quickshifter and engine braking control all appeared on the Panigale model, alongside a TFT dash.

►DID YOU KNOW? The Panigale’s swingarm is actually 39mm longer than the unit on the 1198.

Engine: 1198cc, l/c, 8v desmo V-twin

Power: 192bhp @10,750rpm

Torque: 132Nm @9000rpm

Weight: 188kg (wet)

Price: From £9900

2012 – 2014

DUCATI 1199 PANIGALE S

The higher S specification Panigale featured the same motor and chassis as the standard model, but its stock suspension was replaced by Öhlins units with electronically-controlled compression and rebound damping. Called DES (Ducati Electronic Suspension), the system is linked to the various riding modes and alters its damping characteristics according to the selected mode and can even be personalised. The S model also gained three-spoke forged Marchesini wheels and came with the two-wheeled world’s first LED lighting system and an ‘aero kit’ for enhanced aerodynamics.

►DID YOU KNOW? The Superquadro engine is tilted backwards a further 6° (the front cylinder is at 21° to the horizontal) compared to the 1198 to allow for a steeper head angle.