2025 Ducati Panigale V4 S Review

by reviewzinsight.com · 12 May 2025

The 2025 Ducati Panigale V4 S pushes the limits of performance, precision, and rider control. Ducati has continued its trend of evolving the Panigale line, and this latest iteration arrives with improvements across the board. From re-engineered chassis dynamics to refined electronics and improved rider ergonomics, the Panigale V4 S positions itself as a superbike that balances brute power with finesse.

For enthusiasts and professional riders alike, the 2025 Panigale V4 S offers race-ready hardware wrapped in Italian design elegance, all while incorporating technological sophistication inspired directly by Ducati’s MotoGP experience.

Engine and Performance: MotoGP DNA Unleashed

At the core of the Panigale V4 S lies the formidable Desmosedici Stradale 90° V4 engine, which continues to define Ducati’s dominance in high-performance motorcycling. This 1103cc engine churns out 216 horsepower at 13,500 rpm and 89.2 lb-ft of torque at 11,250 rpm, placing it firmly among the most powerful production motorcycles on the market.

The V4 configuration includes a counter-rotating crankshaft that reduces gyroscopic effects and enhances cornering agility, a direct derivative of Ducati’s MotoGP machines. The desmodromic valve timing system ensures precise valve actuation at high RPMs, improving throttle response and performance stability at the track.

For riders seeking the upper echelon of performance, Ducati offers an optional Akrapovič racing exhaust. This not only boosts output to an astonishing 228 horsepower but also sheds about 6.6 kg (14.5 lbs), further optimizing the bike’s power-to-weight ratio.

Chassis and Handling: More Responsive Than Ever

Ducati has made one of the most significant changes in the 2025 model by switching from a single-sided swingarm to a new double-sided hollow-cast aluminum swingarm. This bold move reduces lateral stiffness by 37%, enhancing rear-wheel feedback and delivering improved traction during hard corner exits. The change marks a technical decision aimed at giving racers and spirited riders a more tactile connection to the road or track.

Suspension duties are handled by the Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 semi-active suspension system, which includes NPX 30 forks at the front and a TTX 36 shock at the rear. These electronically adjustable components continuously adapt based on lean angles, braking force, and road surface feedback to maintain optimal grip and stability.

The result is a bike that corners more aggressively, accelerates out of turns with more control, and maintains higher stability under hard braking.

Aerodynamics and Ergonomics: Engineered for Speed and Comfort

The 2025 Panigale V4 S undergoes aerodynamic refinement, with Ducati achieving a 4% reduction in overall drag and a 12% improvement in radiator airflow. These aerodynamic improvements play a significant role at high speeds, ensuring better cooling efficiency and more consistent engine performance under track pressure.

Rider ergonomics have seen a thoughtful overhaul. Ducati redesigned the fuel tank, giving it a flatter top for easier rider grip under heavy braking. The tank also features a narrower profile for better knee positioning. A longer and wider seat improves rider support during long rides or race sessions, and repositioned foot pegs give riders better leverage and lean angle capability.

The overall rider triangle now better accommodates both aggressive racing posture and relatively relaxed street riding, making the bike more adaptable.

Electronics and Rider Aids: Intelligent Control at Your Fingertips

Ducati has packed the Panigale V4 S with one of the most comprehensive suites of electronics in the superbike category. These systems work seamlessly in the background while giving the rider options to fine-tune the riding experience:

Cornering ABS EVO enhances braking control even at extreme lean angles.
Ducati Traction Control EVO 3 (DTC) offers adaptive grip management.
Ducati Slide Control manages rear wheel slide during aggressive acceleration.
Ducati Wheelie Control EVO prevents unwanted front-end lift.
Ducati Launch Control (DLC) optimizes starts from a standstill.
Quick Shift EVO 2 (up and down) allows clutchless gear changes.
Engine Brake Control EVO 2 modulates deceleration under hard downshifts.

A new standout addition is the Race eCBS (Electronic Combined Braking System), developed in collaboration with Bosch. This system improves braking performance by encouraging calculated use of the rear brake, allowing for seven levels of intervention. The system helps maintain bike balance under hard braking and gives racers more flexibility during trail braking into corners.

These electronic aids can be adjusted through the full-color 5-inch TFT display, which presents an intuitive interface and offers multiple race and street modes, including Race A, Race B, Sport, and Street, allowing the rider to shift personality at will.

Design and Aesthetics: Italian Style With Racing Function

Visually, the 2025 Panigale V4 S remains unmistakably Ducati. It carries forward the sleek silhouette, aggressive stance, and aerodynamic sculpting that define the Panigale line. Inspired by the legendary Ducati 916, the front section now includes re-engineered winglets, a revised headlight cluster, and streamlined side fairings. Each design element contributes to both form and function.

The fairing lines flow into the fuel tank and tail section, creating a unified look that feels fast even while stationary. The red paint scheme, Ducati logos, and exposed components all underscore the mechanical beauty and performance intent of the motorcycle.

Riding Experience: Where Power Meets Precision

Taking the Panigale V4 S on the track delivers a breathtaking experience. The throttle response remains razor-sharp, the power delivery smooth yet aggressive, and the braking confidence-inspiring. Mid-corner feedback has seen the biggest leap forward, thanks to the updated swingarm and suspension system.

The bike transitions from side to side with athleticism and sticks through corners with precision. High-speed straights are where the new aerodynamics and cooling efficiencies truly shine. The chassis feels more compliant than the previous generation, giving even amateur track-day riders more confidence.

For street riding, the adjustable suspension softens enough to handle urban conditions without losing the firm sportbike feel. While the Panigale remains a focused machine, Ducati has managed to widen its usability spectrum slightly without compromising its DNA.

Verdict: The Pinnacle of Ducati’s Engineering Excellence

The 2025 Ducati Panigale V4 S represents the perfect blend of racing heritage, technical advancement, and visual artistry. Ducati didn’t just update the bike—they reimagined key components to raise the bar in the superbike segment.

The move to a double-sided swingarm may cause purists to raise an eyebrow, but the resulting performance benefits make the change worthwhile. Ducati focused on tangible rider improvements, from handling feedback to ergonomic balance and aerodynamic stability.

For serious riders, track enthusiasts, or anyone seeking the ultimate expression of superbike engineering, the Panigale V4 S delivers a near-flawless experience.