Considering a V4R - I need a bit of input

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Jul 30, 2015
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Tokyo, Japan
Dear All,

I am currently considering a V4R as my next bike, having ridden the Panigale R (2015) for the last 5 years on and off the track.

The intend with the V4R will be both some road and track days. I am therefore have a few questions which I hope some of you may be able to help me clarify:

  • Do we expect to see a 2021 V4R model out in the market soon? Obviously, if this is the case, it would be something to consider waiting for vs. the current 2020 model.
  • Can the rearset on the V4R be converted to GP shift (1 up, 5 down)?
  • From current V4R owner's point of view, are there any components on the V4R which should be changed out from the get-go when purchasing the bike (like the slippery foot pegs that used to come standard with the 1199)?
  • Based on your experience with the V4R, do you see any major flaws or maintenance issues with your bike so far?
  • Anything else that would be good to know coming from the traditional L-Twin and to a V4R?

Looking very much forward to your input as I am trying to picture what to expect if/when I pull the trigger. For reference, I am considering adding the Akrapovic Full system to the bike from the time of purchase, as I am not a fan of the OEM exhaust.

Thank you very much in advance for any input :)

Brgds
Lars
 
  • Do we expect to see a 2021 V4R model out in the market soon? Obviously, if this is the case, it would be something to consider waiting for vs. the current 2020 model. I would deff think so
  • Can the rearset on the V4R be converted to GP shift (1 up, 5 down)? Yes
  • From current V4R owner's point of view, are there any components on the V4R which should be changed out from the get-go when purchasing the bike (like the slippery foot pegs that used to come standard with the 1199)? The Full System exhaust is a must, I had mine put on before I took it home deff get it a must have, Fender kit, Front brake spacers to remove the reflectors.
  • Based on your experience with the V4R, do you see any major flaws or maintenance issues with your bike so far? Not a flaw just the dry clutch can wear out quickly. A few users on here have needed replacements at 3K miles or a bit more. But STM states they need to been replaced every 3k so not a flaw but something to consider. In addition, the replacement clutches are not expensive I've seen the kit for 257.00. I am just over 3K on mine so I am getting into the clutch replace area as stated by STM.
  • Anything else that would be good to know coming from the traditional L-Twin and to a V4R? V4R is crazy fast I also have the 1199 and its feel so slow compared to the V4R.

Hope this helps with your decision. Its really a no brainer get the V4R and Im sure you could get a great deal right now.
 
You'll need either the ducati throttle spacers, or the Jet Prime throttle tube to remove slack from the throttle. You may think when you try it, that it's not bad, but it hugely hampers going from closed throttle to part throttle.

The V4R is massively fast, as is the standard V4. I have an S1000RR race bike, and am intending to race my V4R, but am still finessing setup before doing the transition. When I ride them back to back on track, the BMW feels slow!

There are only two reasons to buy the V4R over the V4S:

1 - You intend to race the bike and must have a 1000cc engine.
2 - You have to have an 'R'. And there's nothing wrong with just wanting something for the badge.

The 2020 model V4 bikes have the same chassis as the R. And, if you're riding on the road, the electronic suspension is arguably better than the mechanical setup on the R. The engine in the R is only more powerful over 13k revs, it's advantage isn't clear cut.

If you're going to track the bike, and want to get more out of it, you'll enjoy adding one or two teeth to the rear sprocket. Add a longer chain to maximise the wheelbase with the sprocket change.

Depending on your skill level, the standard electronics are too restrictive for slick tyres, so the Evo2 upgrade is worthwhile.

Adjusting the suspension appropriately for track use makes big differences to feel and enjoyment. This is easier on the electronic setup if you're not too familiar with suspension tuning.
 
Gentlemen,

Thank you for input. So what I hear so far in summarize is:

  • Maybe wait for the V4R 2021 model or get a good price on a 2020 model
  • Get the Akra system, throttle spacer from the beginning
  • Clutch requires more maintenance than 1199/1299 - possibly 3K rebuild
  • Get the EVO2 upgrade (how do I get that?)
  • Consider Electronic suspension vs. manual ( I am ok with this and used to it from the "R")
 
I came from a 2015 R to the V4R.

  • Do we expect to see a 2021 V4R model out in the market soon? If history is an indicator, yes. Based on the 1199 path, expect white number plates, possibly additional wings borrowing from the SL. Engine wise, idk if there's anything more since the SL has the same engine but with Ti cams.
  • From current V4R owner's point of view, are there any components on the V4R which should be changed out from the get-go when purchasing the bike- I really like the attack rear sets (much better than the DP rear sets) and bypass the abs if you want better brake feel. Get the akra exhaust/upmap and earplugs:)
  • Based on your experience with the V4R, do you see any major flaws or maintenance issues with your bike so far? None
  • Anything else that would be good to know coming from the traditional L-Twin and to a V4R? Its insanely fast and without equal in power, that said, it is very composed and linear. Its easier to ride fast than the 1199.
 
Thank you for input. Interesting thoughts on the next version of the V4R. Puts me into the usual to-be buyers doubts of whether to wait...

I will look into the Attack rearset for sure. Have been around Gilles, Ducati Corse and CNC Racing rearsets for now, but always looking for good components.
 

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