2025 Ducati Panigale V4S First Ride Review: Track Beast or Streetable Superbike?

First Impressions and Ergonomics

• 🏍️ The 2025 Ducati Panigale V4S is a track-focused machine with an aggressive riding position, placing the rider high and tucked over the handlebars.
• ⚠️ While the seat is hard, the rider, at 5'10" with a 32-inch inseam, could surprisingly get both feet flat on the ground with race boots on, though on tiptoes with a comfortable bend.
• 💨 The bike features multiple riding modes: Wet, Road, and Sport, with Race A and B modes also available for customization.

Performance and Handling

• 🚀 Powered by Ducati's 1,133 cc V4 engine producing around 210 horsepower, the Panigale V4S offers ample power for any situation.
• ⚡ Acceleration from 40-80 mph in first gear was surprisingly quick, though the rider noted it takes time to rev the engine to achieve such speeds.
• 🎯 The steering is described as extraordinarily precise and sharp, making the bike feel light and agile even at low speeds, contrary to typical sportbike handling.
• 🛣️ On the highway, the bike offers an unlimited amount of power and handles wind well, with a decent windscreen providing some protection when tucked.
• 🏁 For those who truly want to experience the bike's capabilities, a track day is highly recommended, as the Panigale V4S is built for cornering and carrying speed, not just straight-line performance.

City Riding and Heat

• 🏙️ Riding the Panigale V4S in the city is challenging due to the compromised body position, hard seat, and the need to frequently move feet to the ground.
• 🔥 A significant drawback is the intense heat generated by the bike, particularly felt on the rider's lower thighs and legs, making it uncomfortable even when not stopped at red lights.
• 🚦 While the power in Road and Wet modes is manageable, the bike's agility is helpful in navigating city traffic, but the mirrors vibrate excessively and offer limited visibility.

Electronics and User Interface

• 💡 The bike boasts top-tier electronics with numerous rider aids, including traction control, lift control, and more, though a full breakdown is beyond the scope of this video.
• 📱 Ducati's user interface is praised as the best in the business, with intuitive controls and a well-laid-out, albeit information-dense, display that simplifies complex settings.
• ⚙️ The quick shifter is described as gorgeous, providing feedback without upsetting the motorcycle, and the throttle response in Sport mode is incredibly connected and precise.

Brakes and Suspension

• 🛑 The Brembo brakes are exceptionally strong with a light touch on the lever, offering great confidence, though a slight reduction in initial bite might be beneficial for less experienced riders.
• ⛰️ The electronically adjustable suspension is highlighted as being locked in when leaned over, providing exceptional grip and performance in corners.

Chase Score and Conclusion

• 💯 The Panigale V4S received high marks for throttle response (10), agility (9), brakes (9), acceleration (9), suspension (9), and tech (10).
• ⚠️ Comfort received a low score (1) due to heat and aggressive ergonomics, versatility a 3, and fun for the money a 3, reflecting its high price point and specialized nature.
• 🤔 Ultimately, while an incredible machine, the extreme heat and specialized design make the rider question its overall desirability for anything other than track use or spirited mountain riding, suggesting other models might be considered for broader appeal.