Ducati Panigale V4 R superbike launched at Rs 69.99 lakhs

The Panigale V4 R's 998cc engine revs to 16,500 rpm and produces 237 BHP.

Ducati has launched its flagship Panigale V4 R in the Indian market. The superbike is priced at Rs 69.99 lakh (ex-showroom), making it the most expensive Ducati sold in India.

The Ducati Panigale V4 R is a track-focused superbike that is said to be the closest production motorcycle to a race bike. Finished in MotoGP-inspired livery, it certainly looks like one too. The two-element wings on the bike have also been reworked with the aim of improving their aero efficiency.

The Panigale V4 R continues with the layout based on the "Front Frame" and a single-sided aluminium swingarm paired with an adjustable Ohlins monoshock. At the front is a fully adjustable Ohlins pressurized fork.  

Powering the Panigale V4 R is a 998cc Desmosedici Stradale R engine that revs to 16,500 rpm. The engine produces 215 BHP @ 15,500 rpm. An Akrapovic exhaust bumps the overall output to 234 BHP. Ducati claims that special oil developed by Shell helps reduce mechanical friction by 10% and increase performance by 4.4 BHP, resulting in an overall output of 237 BHP.

Being a track-oriented superbike, the Panigale V4 R comes with a suite of electronics. These include a new 'Track Evo' mode and recalibrated Ducati Traction Control, Ride By Wire and Engine Brake Control EVO2 systems. The rider also gets four engine modes to choose from – Full, High, Medium and Low.