Easily one of the most anticipated new models from Ducati has been the Streetfighter V4, returning to the lineup after a long absence. The prototype of the motorcycle was en route to securing another victory at the Pikes Peak in the US until a tragic accident took the life of its rider, Carlin Dunne, whose passing was mourned by the entire racing community.
Some months after, the world will finally see the much awaited motorcycle without camouflage ahead the 2019 EICMA motorcycle show to be held at the Milano-Rho Trade Fair Centre (Fiera) in Milan, Italy from November 7 to 10.
The Streetfighter was unveiled with the rest of Ducati's 2020 model lineup at the Ducati World Premiere 2020, streamed live from Palacongressi di Rimini on October 23, and hosted by none other than Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holdings.
Easily the star of the Ducati World Première 2020, the new Streetfighter V4 is a super-naked long-awaited by enthusiasts worldwide and a prime candidate for the title of “best looking bike of EICMA 2019”.
"The Streetfighter V4 [is] an extraordinary bike for which we have applied what, at Borgo Panigale, we like to call 'The Fight Formula': we took the Desmosedici Stradale 1,103 cc engine, added the latest-generation electronic package of the Panigale V4, lightened it to obtain a dry weight of 178 kg, added a tall and wide handlebar, removed the fairings and obtained 208 hp of power @ 12,750 rpm," said Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holdings.
"A high-performance motorcycle with great attention to comfort, thanks to relaxed ergonomics, a well-padded seat and suspension set for road use. A safe bike, like all new-generation Ducatis, thanks to a very complete electronics package that has the first objective of increasing riding ease and safety."
The foundation of the Streetfighter V4 is a Panigale V4 stripped of its fairings and equipped with high, wide handlebars. Weighing 178 kg, it is powered by an 1103 cc Desmosedici Stradale engine. Its 208 hp kept under control by biplane aerofoils and a latest-generation electronics package: a combination of factors and modifications that Ducati calls the "Fight Formula".
The result is an over-the-top naked Ducati, modern and technological, with an assertively eye-catching design. A bike that does nothing to hide its segment-leading performance, but which also ensures practicality and full-on fun during everyday rides.
The minimalist full-LED headlight with its V-shaped DRL captures the spirit of the Streetfighter V4 perfectly. On the one hand, it recalls the front of the Panigale V4 and, on the other, evokes the crazy grin of the Joker (the comic strip character from which the Ducati Style Center drew inspiration for this new Bologna-built naked).
On the Streetfighter V4, the Front Frame and Desmosedici Stradale engine take center-stage. Only partially screened by superstructures that have been cut to a bare minimum, their sharp lines create a clean, essential whole.
Such powerful design demands a powerful engine, and the 1103 cc 208 hp Desmosedici Stradale fits the bill: for a naked, it packs an impressive punch, yet dedicated engine mapping lets the rider control the power with confidence. The engine - combined with a kerb weight of 178 kg (“S” version) - boosts the power/weight ratio to an impressive 1.17. Performance can be further improved by mounting the full-racing Ducati Performance exhaust by Akrapovič, which raises power to 220 hp and reduces weight by 6 kg.
The feisty performance of this bike is stabilized by sophisticated electronics lifted directly from the Panigale V4 and the 'biplane' aerofoils developed by Ducati Corse aerodynamicists. Brought forward to maximize their effect, the aerofoils generate 28 kg of downforce at 270 kph, attenuating front wheel 'floating' at high speed and the tendency to wheel-up. They also boost stability during braking at the turn-in point and through the corner. On the road, this dynamic behavior instills confidence. On the track, instead, it boosts performance by limiting electronic control intervention and allowing delayed braking.
The latest-generation electronics package on the Streetfighter V4 is based on a 6-axis inertial measurement platform that instantly detects the bike's roll, yaw and pitch angles. The electronics oversee every part of the ride: some controls manage to start, acceleration and braking, others handle traction, while some lend a helping hand on corners and out-of-the-corner stretches. Safety, performance, and bags of personality: the new Ducati Streetfighter V4 has arrived!
