Persistently since the 1970s, Ducati has reinvented the V-twin sportbike. The iconic 1974 750SS Green Frame. The 851. The 916, 996, 998, and their special derivations. And many more. Now here is the 1299 Panigale R, presented in its Final Edition format. Stuffed full of titanium bits, the 1,285cc Superquadro engine’s dimensions are hugely oversquare with a Grand Canyon-wide 116mm bore and a demitasse-cup short stroke of just 60.8mm. The output? A claimed 209 hp at 11,000 rpm, enough to fling this 370-pound-dry machine down your favorite straightaway at most satisfying velocities.
The chassis—what there is of it—is a monocoque unit that bolts to the engine and is configured to provide one of the steepest steering angles (24 degrees) in motorcycling. The suspension and steering damper are produced by esteemed Swedish maker Öhlins and naturally fully adjustable, while the very red, tri-Y wheels are Marchesini forged aluminum. Nestled under the seat is a titanium Akrapovič exhaust, another contributor to this heartthrob’s light weight. The huge electronics array includes a GPS-enabled data analyzer with lean angle acquisition. Bravo!
Likes: Even the warranty—two years and unlimited miles—is audacious
Dislikes: The $39,900 "starting" price (if you can find one)
Verdict: Ducati's ultimate V-twin…once again
