The 2020 Ducati Panigale V2 has arrived with a host of changes elevating the popular 'super-mid' platform for the Italian brand. Positioned as the more sensible Superbike in the track-ready sportbike lineup, which includes the V4, V4 S, and V4 R, the Panigale V2 fills a crucial role in continuing Ducati's long-standing V-twin tradition. For those wishing for light, maneuverable, torque-rich track weapons - the V2 should be on your shortlist.
A successor to the Panigale 959, the Panigale V2 shares its monocoque frame and 955cc Superquadro engine with the outgoing 959 machine. However, the V2 is far more than a simple re-branding meant to make it fall in line with the V4 - the V2 features top-spec six-axis-IMU supported electronics V4-derived electronics, an up/down quickshifter, engine refinements, a single-sided swingarm and Euro 5 compliance - all for a 1,100 dollar increase.
The 955cc V-twin is used as a stressed member of the frame, and it's also at the heart of the story. Producing an inviting, usable 155 horsepower and 77 ft/lbs of torque, the V2 has just-the-right-amount of power for those looking to dive into track-riding, without being overwhelmed. The power delivery is extremely linear, and with a marble-slab like torque curve, the 955cc lets riders to extract everything that their skills will allow. Intermediate riders will revel in the usability and ease of use, while advanced riders will wring it out with glee.
Perhaps the single most noticeable change, when compared to the 959 Panigale, is the improved fuel mapping. The V2's throttle response and connection are excellent in all three riding modes; Race, Sport, and Street.
Other sophisticated additions to the 2020 Ducati Panigale V2 come in the form of a full-suite of electronics borrowed from the V4. Lean-angle-detecting traction control, cornering ABS, wheelie control, slide-by-brake, engine braking adjustment, and rear-wheel-lift control are all standard package.
Importantly, the traction control solution is part of the second-generation 'EVO 2' update and is works to alleviate abrupt TC intrusion through a refined algorithm. The new TC solution analyzes the severity of each TC event and attempts to predict future events - effectively making the TC far smoother. In practice, it is one of the most unobtrusive systems on the market.
Minor geometry changes have improved the 2020 Ducati Panigale V2's handling, while spec-sheet numbers remain relatively similar to the 959. The wheelbase has grown slightly to 56.5-inches, while the sporty rake remains the same at 24-degrees. The rear ride height has increased, which shortened the trail by 2mm, bringing it down to 3.7-inches. All of those changes were done in the name of improving handling, without sacrificing stability.
Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tires will now be part of OEM fitment globally. The front sizing remains at 120/70, while the rear uses a taller profile of 180/60, again, incouraging more aggressive handling.
Brembo M4.32 calipers and 320mm floating rotors make up the brake hardware in the front, while a single-piston Brembo caliper and a 245 rotor do the heavy lifting in the rear. There is no harsh, overbearing initial bite and feel at the lever is soft, overall. The brakes do not lack power and will certainly get the 2020 Panigale V2 stopped when rocketing into turn one. Most importantly, tighter Euro 5 ABS standards did not rear their ugly head, and at no point did Nic de Sena feel that the track-oriented settings step in prematurely.
At the dynamic track that is Circuito de Jerez - Angel Nieto, the Panigale V2 handled superbly and was confident on the each of the tire. It dives into tight, slow, 2nd-gear corners predictably, while also making mincemeat of Jerez's many hard-driving sweeping turns.
Another major change comes in the form of ergonomics. The seat is now 5mm taller and far more comfortable than before. Coupled with that, the seat has been elongated by 20mm, giving the rider more room in the saddle. Owners that want even more room to tuck in down the straights might consider ditching the padded passenger seat and picking up the accessory single-tail, which will net even more room.
Senior Editor, Nic de Sena grabbed his suit and headed off to the immaculate Circuito de Jerez - Ángel Nieto, where he spent the day riding the revised 2020 Ducati Panigale V2.
Check out our full review of the 2020 Ducati Panigale V2! - ultimatemotorcycling.com/2019...
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