The 2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4 is a supernaked machine that packs a wicked punch of premium superbike performance. Seriously, Ducati stripped the Panigale V4 of its bodywork and tailored its ergonomics package with a one-piece motocross-style handlebar and revised footpeg placement for all-day comfort, then cut it loose. It’s powered by the same 1,103cc V-4 engine as its superbike compatriot (ahem… let the ripping begin), but gets a dedicated engine mapping and shorter final drive gearing for optimum street performance—and thankfully, top-shelf Brembo Stylema brakes to stop it! Oh, and comes equipped with MotoGP-derived “biplane” winglets…
This is a machine for those who want to carve through the canyons, bomb around the racetrack, and then take it to work after the weekend fun is over.
In Cycle World’s first ride review, Road Test Editor Michael Gilbert stated, “At first touch of the throttle, the Streetfighter offers a crisp and tractable power delivery as it comfortably transfers weight rearward for supreme confidence at corner exit. But hit the 7,000 rpm mark, and you’ll witness the V4 in all its glory as it lofts the front end skyward and sends your glutes into the rear cowling under hard acceleration.”
A comparable list of super-nakeds includes the Aprilia Tuono V4 1100, BMW S 1000 R, KTM 1290 Super Duke R, and the Yamaha MT-10. The well-mannered Honda CB1000R also fits, but packs less of a sporty punch.
There are two versions—the base V4 and premium-spec V4 S. The S model ditches the five-spoke wheels for three-spoke Marchesini forged aluminum wheels and also swaps to semi-active Öhlins suspension. The base can be purchased at an MSRP of $19,995 and the V4 S at $23,995. Both come in Ducati Red.
