DUCATI STREETFIGHTER V4 S

Ducati's devastatingly quick hypernaked enthralls around one of Europe's most challenging circuits

- ABHAY VERMA

DUCATI STREETFIGHTER

V4 S  Engine: 1,103cc, 90-degree V4, Desmodromic valves Power: 208PS @ 13,000rpm Torque: 123Nm @ 9,500rpm Weight: 197.5kg Gearbox: Six-speed, bi-directional quickshifter Price: ₹27 lakh ex-showroom (Estimated)

The first time I rode it, the Ducati Streetfighter V4 had me in awe. Its ridiculously quick acceleration and Panigale V4-like handling made it one of the most manic nakeds money could buy. It also seemed to detest being ridden on both wheels and was a ludicrous wheelie machine – I was more than happy to hoist its front end for our cover back in November 2021! So it would have been easy for Ducati to bask in the glory of the Streetfighter’s success. But the Italian bike maker had an update in the works and for 2023, it claims to have upped the Streetfighter V4’s game. How, is what I was wondering on my flight to Spain to bring you this exclusive first ride, from one of the most challenging circuits I have ridden on, the Andalucia circuit! Before you ask, “but this is no Panigale, why a track-only review?”, kindly allow me to explain.