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Ducati 959 Panigale
2018Sportbike

Ducati 959 Panigale

Key specifications

Engine
955 cc
Power
150 HP
Torque
102 Nm
Weight
176 kg
Fuel type
petrol
Fuel capacity
4.5 L
Transmission
6-speed
Seat height
33 mm
Front brakes
Double disc. ABS. Floating discs. Four-piston calipers. Radially mounted.
Rear brakes
Single disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.

Overview

Introducing the 2018 Ducati 959 Panigale, a motorcycle that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Italian engineering and performance in the sportbike category. Positioned as a bridge between the entry-level and high-performance superbikes, the 959 Panigale is designed for passionate riders who crave both track-day thrill and everyday usability. With its striking design that echoes the iconic Panigale lineage, this motorcycle is as much a feast for the eyes as it is a maestro on the asphalt. At the heart of the 959 Panigale lies a potent V2, four-stroke engine with a displacement of 955 ccm, delivering an exhilarating 150 horsepower at 10,500 RPM and an impressive torque of 102 Nm at 9,000 RPM. This powertrain is not just about raw numbers; it offers a symphony of performance that propels riders through corners and straights with unparalleled agility. The 6-speed gearbox, complete with a slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch, ensures seamless gear shifts, allowing for a thrilling ride that demands confidence and control. Riders will appreciate the liquid cooling system, which maintains optimal temperatures during spirited rides, ensuring the 959 remains composed even in the heat of battle. The 959 Panigale is loaded with cutting-edge technology and features that enhance both performance and rider comfort. Its monocoque aluminum frame is engineered for lightweight rigidity, while the fully adjustable Öhlins suspension—featuring a USD fork and TTX36 rear unit—offers electronic compression and rebound damping adjustments, ensuring a tailored ride on any terrain. With advanced features like traction control and a sophisticated ABS braking system, the 959 provides a blend of safety and performance that is essential for both novice riders and seasoned veterans. The bike's sleek dimensions, with a seat height of 830 mm, make it approachable while still offering a commanding presence on the road. **

Pros

  • Impressive Performance: With 150 HP and agile handling, the 959 Panigale delivers exhilarating acceleration and cornering capabilities.
  • Advanced Suspension Technology: The fully adjustable Öhlins suspension offers electronic settings, allowing riders to customize their experience for various riding conditions.
  • Striking Aesthetic: The distinctive design, available in light gray and Ducati red, ensures that the 959 turns heads wherever it goes.

Cons

  • Rider Ergonomics: The sporty riding position may not suit all riders, particularly for long-distance touring.
  • Weight Considerations: At 176 kg, it’s relatively lightweight for a sportbike, but it may feel heavy for some when maneuvering at low speeds.
  • Cost of Maintenance: As with many high-performance motorcycles, maintenance can be on the pricier side, which is something to consider for potential owners.

Technical details

Source specification data

Make
Ducati
Model
959 Panigale
Category
Sport
Starter
Electric
Comments
Traction control
Color Options
Light gray, Ducati red
Factory Warranty
24 months unlimited mileage
Power
150.00 HP (109.5 kW)) @ 10500 RPM
Clutch
Slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch with hydraulic control
Torque
102.00 Nm (10.4 kgf-m or 75.2 ft.lbs) @ 9000 RPM
Gearbox
6-speed
Driveline
Chain
525;
Front
sprocket 15;
Rear
sprocket 39.
Primary
drive:
Straight
cut gears,
Ratio
1.77.
Engine Type
Superquadro L-Twin
Fuel System
Injection
.
Twin
injectors per cylinder.
Full
ride-by-wire elliptical throttle bodies.
Bore X Stroke
100.0 x 60.8 mm (3.9 x 2.4 inches)
Compression
12.5:1
Displacement
955.00 ccm (58.27 cubic inches)
Cooling System
Liquid
Engine Details
V2, four-stroke
Exhaust System
2-1-2 system with catalytic converter and 2 lambda probes. Twin stainless steel mufflers with alumimum outer sleeves
Emission Details
Euro 4
Valves Per Cylinder
4
Transmission Type Final Drive
Chain
Dry Weight
176.0 kg (388.0 pounds)
Seat Height
830 mm (32.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Fuel Capacity
17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)
Overall Width
745 mm (29.3 inches)
Overall Height
1,105 mm (43.5 inches)
Overall Length
2,070 mm (81.5 inches)
Power Weight Ratio
0.8523 HP/kg
Rake
24.0°
Trail
96 mm (3.8 inches)
Wheels
W
shape forged light alloy.
P
tyres.
Rear Tyre
200/55-ZR17
Frame Type
Monocoque Aluminium
Front Tyre
120/70-ZR17
Rear Brakes
Single disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
Front Brakes
Double
disc.
S
.
Floating
discs.
Four
-piston calipers.
Radially
mounted.
Rear Suspension
Fully
adjustable
X36
unit.
Electronic
compression and rebound damping adjustment with semi-active mode.
Adjustable
linkage:
Progressive
/flat.
Aluminium
single-sided swingarm
Front Suspension
X30
43mm fully adjustable
D
fork with
N
treatment.
Electronic
compression and rebound damping adjustment with semi-active mode
Rear Wheel Travel
130 mm (5.1 inches)
Front Wheel Travel
120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear Brakes Diameter
245 mm (9.6 inches)
Front Brakes Diameter
330 mm (13.0 inches)

Available colors

Light grayDucati red