The 2013 Ducati Superbike family lineup is now completed, said the OEM, with the arrival of the flagship 1199 Panigale R, a machine specially developed with enhanced technical specification by Ducati Corse for World Superbike homologation. The R stands alongside the 1199 Panigale and 1199 Panigale S in a new-for-2013 arctic white color scheme and signature Ducati red, in addition to the exclusive 1199 Panigale S Tricolore.
The R takes everything that the S model is currently equipped with, and boosts the technical specs, according to Ducati. Titanium con-rods save an overall 0.63kg (1.38 lb.), a 0.7kg (1.54 lb.); a lighter crankshaft flywheel, DLC-coated rocker-arms and revised engine mapping enhance the Superquadro engine’s crank acceleration and allow it to rev 500 rpm higher -- to a 12,000 rpm limit, "an incredible engineering achievement for 112mm pistons," Ducati noted.
The Panigale R (priced at $29,995 for the U.S.) also features a new four-point adjustable swingarm pivot, designed to enable riders a personalized and precise set-up and a race kit consisting of high-penetration racing screen, fairing mirror caps in machined alloy and a full Termignoni exhaust system with dedicated ECU mapping (for track use only, the OEM noted). The system provides a power increase of 3 percent at the top of the rev-range and 15 percent in the mid-range, Ducati said.
Additional enhancements to the Panigale R include lightweight carbon fiber rear hugger, rear suspension guard, heels guards, ignition switch surround and top fairing inner panels and carbon fiber protectors for the single-sided swingarm and clutch cover. The lightweight chassis and engine components give the “R” a dry weight of just 165kg (363.7 lbs.), even with an ABS braking system as standard.
This top-of-the-range model is also fitted with a special race-style seat fabric for added “feel” and equipped with the GPS-enhanced Ducati Data Acquisition system, for automatic lap times and circuit map-linked data. The 1199 Panigale R is dressed in Ducati red with defining white race features, sporting a mix of red and brushed aluminum on the fuel tank with lightweight forged wheels by Marchesini in black.
A surprise entry for the Diavel family comes in the form of the new Strada (shown here). Designed specifically for longer journeys, the Diavel Strada has been factory-accessorized with touring-friendly components that enable all-day riding comfort for both rider and passenger, Ducati noted.
The Strada's screen provides improved wind protection. The rider gains improved posture with higher handlebars that sweep back toward the rider and larger, comfort-enhancing seats with revised foam cushioning. Heated grips are powered by a higher-output generator, also handy for auxiliary power outlets intended for heated clothing or navigation accessories.
The passenger’s ride has also been improved with a ride-relaxing backrest and confidence-inspiring grab-rails, the company said. Touring practicality is bolstered through stylish side luggage fitted as standard equipment with revised passenger footpegs and rear lighting, the company noted. The Diavel Strada ($19,995 for the touring model) arrives in a race titanium color scheme with racing black frame, and black wheels and side luggage.
FURTHER READING:
Ducati 2013 Specifications: 1199 Panigale R Superbike
Ducati 2013 Specifications: Diavel
Ducati 2013 Specifications: Hypermotard
Posted by Mary Slepicka. Press release, PDFs and images courtesy Ducati
