Panigale R and stablemates

Twistedracer said:

Man I thought the Streetfighter was supposed to be a wheelie, hooligan machine. What happened here?

Click to expand...

Well I don't want to overstate it because I am just getting to know the bike and the full exhaust isn't on yet.

It wasn't as easy to get up at freeway speeds in second gear, but on a back road going about 55 it came up just fine in second and I was able to ride it out to about 85 no problem. Just isn't a torque monster like the Superduke or 1098's or even the monsters.

I also haven't tried any clutch ups, just power wheelies to this point.

But trust me Charlie it is a hoot to ride. Blisteringly fast even for superbike standards!

Took the SF out today and put about 70 miles on her. Variety of tight twisties and longer sweepers. Here’s what I learned.

The bike in certain respects feels to me like a more capable hypermotard on steroids with a more planted riding position and stable cornering characteristics. Strange description I know. Maybe it’s the upright bars but I think there’s mto it than just that. It is very comfortable and plush to ride. Not bouncy or too much travel like the hyper could be at times but a great combo of comfort even mid corner on bumpy roads but still very planted and confidence inspiring on the edge of the tire. No issues getting a knee down and ground clearance feels similar to the panigales.

The bike is FAST with a capital F. Surprisingly so. You’re more upright and without much wind protection so it is a bit shocking when you twist the throttle and the bike takes off like a superbike. Takes some getting used to.

Torque. So it’s definitely there. But it’s different than the panigales. I can power wheelie the speciale in second at about 7-8k rpm all day long with a quick snap of the throttle. Clutch ups easy as well in third at anything over 80mph.

The SF by comparison loves to wheelie in first gear (like the hyper) and in second at about 55-60 mph and 8k rpm. Unlike the hyper it’s got a long first gear so you can ride that wheelie out through 60mph in first. In second it’ll take you up through 90mph and doesn’t require any clutch like the hyper did in second. And it comes up EASY at those slower speeds and controllable too. The bike doesn’t seem to like to wheelie in second at higher speeds (say over 70mph) At least not yet with the standard exhaust. I have not tried clutch ups yet.

Based on what I’ve learned so far this bike is more of a hooligan at speeds under70mph. Once on the freeway it’s pretty planted unlike the v4’s panigales which can power wheelie anywhere. It‘s power delivery reminds me a bit of the v4r. Again this thing is FAST!!

I think this bike will be really good at the track due to its mannerisms as long as you can hang on in the straights. It shoots out of corners with the best of them. And don’t need to be overly sensitive with the throttle. The electronics just keep getting better and better.

So kinda the best of both worlds. A hooligan at slower speeds and a superbike as you pick up the pace. Great looks and comfort too.

More to come. But day 2 was a hoot!!! So much fun to ride!

KMY said:

Click to expand...

Bike looks awesome. I wonder how much work it would take to put v4 track fairings on for the track.

Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using Tapatalk

Sounds like a good all around bike.

Getting some miles on my Rosso D16RR. I'm keeping #1139 with the GP7 exhaust as a garage queen. Fluids drained and properly stored. #566 just got the full treatment. Already had the latest return springs, but got a new timing gear installed (which is a known weak spot for these bikes). Had the exhaust valves cleaned and resealed as well. These bikes are also notorious for carbon build up affecting valve seating due to being started and stopped intermittently and never ridden as intended. I plan to remedy this!! new regulator which has been relocated and she's ready to go.

These bikes are such an event to ride. It's hard to describe how truly special they are. The sound is orgasmic and it is such a well balanced machine and feels really light and agile. Marchesini 17'' wheel is on order. Once i can get proper rubber on her I'll be further exploring her limits. Bravo to Ducati for taking on such a project.

Ryan, this should serve as a proper tease until yours arrives. You're going to love her. Prepare to be impressed!!

Can’t hit the like button enough on these!!!

Well I dunno if this has been posted anywhere but Its a cool series, some of you have probably seen it already. Didn't know where else to put is so figured here's as good a place as any.

Andy7 said:

Well I dunno if this has been posted anywhere but Its a cool series, some of you have probably seen it already. Didn't know where else to put is so figured here's as good a place as any.

Ducati Desmosedici RR Re-build Project

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

www.youtube.com

Click to expand...

Thanks man! Yeah that's a great series of videos. Thanks for sharing!

So time to make some more room. Just listed this in the classified. Definitely the bike I personally am the quickest on. V4R included. It's just so dang easy to ride and confidence inspiring. For you ducatistas that have never tried one it's a must! i'm contemplating turning it into a dedicated track bike since I'm scared to bin the RSV4X, but thought I'd list it for a bit first.



Video link of bike running and walkaround:

KMY said:

So time to make some more room. Just listed this in the classified

Click to expand...

good don’t trade it in, they fake the numbers and skrew you

yeah I can see how that would be the bike you’re the quickest on, my buddy’s has one and is proficient and operating it, what a beast.

interested to see how the used premium bike market is right now

Been a bit quiet lately. Too busy riding!! It's the best escape from this lockdown we're in here in CA. Hope everyone is staying healthy and safe.

So a few quick updates. Sold the RSV4 pretty quick. Took 5 days so I think the market is still hanging in there for bikes that are priced right. Went to a great guy and enthusiast who I believe is on this site.

He bought it and took it straight to Laguna Seca for a track day. Clearly sold it to the right guy!!

I missed the bike almost immediately so picked up a 2020 model with electronic suspension. Not the best financial decision, but I've been enjoying her. Took the new one to the track and she's amazing.

Also have been riding the V4R and Streetfighter lately. They are different in so many ways but strangely similar in a lot of ways too. Can definitely feel the same Ducati DNA. Snapped a few pics side by side which provides a good comparison for any of you contemplating a panigale vs streetfighter. Don't think you can go wrong either way. Stay safe out there fellas!

Fantastic pics K. What tank grip are you using on the R?

endodoc said:

What tank grip are you using on the R?

Click to expand...

R&G Tank Traction Grips (EZRG221BL).
Have them too. Great feel but they have bonding issues. Already on 2nd set. dealer installed this time. same issue. will switch to new black OEM V4 grips just received

Thanks for the info

endodoc said:

Fantastic pics K. What tank grip are you using on the R?

Click to expand...

Thanks man. Yep Rdash has it right. R&G tank grips. They work fine. I actually prefer the feel of the TechSpec grips which are on the Aprilia and Streetfighter, but they weren't available at the time for the panigale. The R&G grips look great and do the trick.

Kevin

Thanks Kevin and again, outstanding display of 2 wheel excellence. However, you should really stop posting photos of those SL wheels. Its painful that I do not have a set of those and you are not helping LOL. I did buy up a lot of SL parts (engine parts, chassis pieces) from Tamburini and they do have a set of new SL wheels (not officially for sale) but I do have to have them after again seeing these photos. I just cant get excited about the BST OTC versions. A bit off topic but Kevin's bikes are exceptional. The bikes that he does modify are done extremely tastefully and with function being foremost. Also note the side tire wear? No garage queens here. A class act for sure.

Kevin, would you believe that I still haven’t ridden all year lol