Just 12 months after the launch of the Panigale V4 SP, Ducati introduced an updated SP2 version of the Bologna factory’s exotic, track-focused superbike.
If that sounds a little premature for an update, that’s because the Italian company’s hand was forced somewhat by the modifications introduced to the base V4 and V4 S Panigales last year, which meant the cheaper machines made more power than the ‘ultimate track machine’.
Now the SP2 is brought into line with a 1.1kW (1.5hp) boost for a maximum of 158.4kW (215.5hp) at 13,000rpm, with max torque of 123.6Nm at 9500rpm and four riding modes: Street, Sport, Race A and Race B. There’s an STM-EVO dry slipper clutch that sounds fabulous and a lighter 520 chain, along with an optional titanium Akrapovic system that takes the power up to 167.6kW (228hp) while trimming 5kg from the SP2’s mass. Suspension, too, is aligned with that found on the new V4 S, meaning an Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 electronic control system with a NPX25/30 fork and TTX36 shock aborber.
NOT MANY BIKES CAN EXCITE AT TICKOVER, BUT THE SP2 IS CERTAINLY ONE OF THEM
At 173kg (dry), it weighs the same as the original SP and is just 1kg lighter than the V4 S, but
