228hp Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 ups the sportsbike ante once more

Ducati has formally completed its 2022MY range with the launch of another top tier addition to its sportsbike range, the Ducati Panigale V4 SP2.

The headline star of Ducati’s ninth and final episode of its World Premiere series - which gave us the DesertX and updated Panigale V4 and V4 S models before Christmas - the Panigale V4 SP2 is the special edition flagship for the latter.

A second generation of the Panigale V4 SP launched in 2020, the updated SP2 places further emphasis on trimming the fat and lifting the performance levels with parts and accessories unique to the model.

Retaining the same 1103cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine, but housing it in an aluminium front frame, the SP2 adds a full-titanium Akrapovic exhaust system, which both reduces weight by 5kg and ups the power to 228hp.

The Panigale V4 SP2 also benefits from Ohlins NPX 25/30 front end, TTX36 rear shock and steering damper, plus Ohlins Smart EC 2.0 system with four power modes (Full, High, Medium and Low).

Keeping things in check are Brembo Stylema R calipers with an STM EVO dry clutch developed from the sister WorldSBK-contesting machine. Those with a penchant for taking their pride and joy on track will enjoy the Street and Sport ride modes (with Race A and Race B presets), as well as a Track Evo display option and Ducati Data Analyser with GPS module.

From the outset, the Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 is designed to both shout about what is lurking beneath and blend in with the crowd, with the matt black Winter Test livery looking mean and stealthy but for the chrome-finish fuel tank hump.

Dubbed the ‘Ultimate Racetrack Machine’, the Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 is on sale now priced at £34,295