Popular Mechanics - USA (2020-09 & 2020-10)

(Antfer) #1
DUCATI PANIGALE V
A PRACTICAL-ISH
SUPERBIKE
Price: $16,
Engine: 955cc L-twin
Power: 155 hp
Weight (with fuel and
fluids): 441 lb.
It’s not the fastest bike you can buy.
It’s not even the fastest bike you can
buy from Ducati. But for those of us
who ride on civilian roads with speed
limits and traffic, the V2’s restraint
is what makes it an ideal performance
motorcycle. At 441 pounds with 155
horsepower, it has the acceleration
to thrill on curvy roads and at track
days. Thankfully, it also has elec-
tronic aids to keep you upright as you
test the bike’s limits. Among them:
a six-axis inertial measurement
unit (IMU) that detects lean angle
to help inform the braking and trac-
tion control systems. High-tech, fast,
sonorous, visually arresting—the V
represents everything Ducati does
better than anyone else.

ALSO CONSIDER Kawasaki Ninja H 2
($29,000): The apex predator of fast
motorcycles has sci-fi looks and a
delightful supercharger whine.

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September/October 2020 13
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