1299 Panigale R signs off with Final Edition
After three decades of evolution driven by Word Superbike competition, Ducati has announced that they’ll be bringing their twin-cylinder desmodromic-engined superbikes to an end with the 1299 Panigale R Final Edition.
While the name suggests otherwise, Ducati says this won’t be the last Panigale, nor their last large capacity twin, just the last Panigale with this particular 1285cc displacement. However, the next Panigale is expected to be a V4 design, which will likely make its debt at EICMA later this year.
Paying homage to Ducati’s twin-cylinder superbike history that stretches back to the 851 from 1988, the Panigale R Final Edition will be identified by a unique livery and numerous top-end technical features, but it won’t be the hand-built exotica that is the 1299 Superleggera.
The Final Edition will be numbered, but not a limited edition, with Ducati stating they’ll continue to produce the model for as long as there is demand.
Super-inspired
While derived in part from the 1299 Superleggera, the Panigale R Final Edition features a number of key changes, namely the use of steel instead of titanium and aluminium in selected engine components, as well as the lack of the Superleggera’s carbon fibre parts.
With a ride-by-wire throttle, new aerodynamic throttle openings, an optimised intake system, larger inlet and exhaust valves and a 2-1-2 Akrapovic titanium exhaust system, listed output from the Final Ediiton’s Euro4-compliant Superquadro L-twin is 154kW at 11,000rpm and 142Nm at 9,000rpm, second only to the 1299 Superleggera.
The 6-speed gearbox features the DQS (Ducati Quick Shift) and a slipper clutch with new additions for this model that claim to deliver better clutch “feel” and improved stability.
The chassis and suspension are the same as the regular Panigale R, with a monocoque aluminium frame, 24-degree rake and fully-adjustable Ohlins suspension front (NIX30) and rear (TTX36). An adjustable Ohlins steering damper is also standard.
Electronic Overload
Standard rider-assistance electronics on the 1299 Panigale R Final Edition centres around the Bosch IMU and includes cornering ABS and Ducati Wheelie Control EVO (as part of what’s called the Ducati Safety Pack and offering a claimed faster DTC intervention in this model), as well as Ducati Traction Control EVO, Engine Brake Control and the aforementioned DQS.
As in other Panigale road bikes, these electronic interventions can be added – or removed – via the Riding Mode controls. ‘Race,’ ‘Sport’ and ‘Wet’ modes are available, which can be personalised as required by the rider.
Additionally, the Final Edition also features Ducati Data Analysis+ GPS, which lets the rider record lean angles.
Smart Frame, Special Livery
The aluminium monocoque frame incorporates the airbox, throttle bodies and fuel circuit and uses the Superquadro engine as a stressed member.
Braking consists of dual 330mm semi-floating discs at the front, with radially-mounted Brembo Monobloc M50 four-piston calipers. The rear brake is a 245mm disc with a 2-piston caliper.
Marchesini forged alloy wheels are standard, which for the Final Edition are finished in red.
The rest of the livery is a unique red, green and white combination that was previewed at the recent Laguna Seca WSBK round (where the Final Edition was officially launched) and pays homage to the Italian national colours. Each Final Edition produced will also carry its build number on the headstem.
Options include a racing windscreen and mirror block-off plates.
While the 1299 Panigale R Final Edition will be coming to Australia, pricing hadn’t been confirmed at press time, so see your Ducati dealer for further details.