Ducati 899 Panigale

The revolutionary technology found in the Monoscocca frame and Superquadro engine, 148 HP delivered with incredible lightness and unprecedented agility, the unmistakable design, Ducati Quick Shift and ABS fitted as standard. This all ensures that the 899 Panigale is just the bike to give a Ducati Superbike adrenalin rush, both on the track and on the road.

The introduction of the highly-anticipated Ducati 899 Panigale provides a way to access the exclusive world of Ducati Superbikes with a “Supermid” version designed to provide the thrill of the latest generation flagship model with the refined character of an everyday streetbike.

The Superquadro engine features a revised bore and stroke for a broad power delivery, producing 148 hp (109 kW) with a torque of 73 lb-ft (10.1 kgm). The super-smooth power unit continues to be a fully stressed member of the innovative Panigale monocoque construction, achieving both an outstanding power-to-weight ratio and ride-enhancing agility with a dry weight of 169 kg (372.5 lb). An 1199 silhouette underlines the family DNA, while the Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) and the fully integrated Riding Mode technologies of Rideby-Wire, triple stage ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Engine Brake Control (EBC) continue the
Panigale’s benchmark ingenuity.

Ducati’s constant pursuit of perfection now offers all-round performance for connoisseurs with an authentic and stylish way to enter the world of high performance. The 899 Panigale is available in traditional Ducati red with black wheels or a stunning arctic white with red wheels.

The best of both worlds
Ducati is passionately committed to further development of the Panigale concept both on the track and on the street and the 899 represents a “Supermid” version, intended to be a method of entry into the world of premium performance. With carefully designed, rider-friendly features, like increased seat cushioning and short final drive gearing for enhanced mid-range rideability, this model achieves a successful mix of authentic Italian performance with everyday usability, offering the very best of both worlds in absolute style.

Suspension
The 899 Panigale is eqiuipped with 43 mm Showa BPF usd forks, fully adjustable in spring pre-load and compression and rebound damping. The bodies are finished in titanium grey and the sliders in chrome and feature forged radial calliper mountings on the fork feet. The Showa Big Piston Fork (BPF) enhances damping control at low suspension speeds by flowing more oil at lower pressures and reducing the range over which the damping fluid has to flow during compression and extension. This innovative solution improves performance, while achieving a weight reduction compared to traditional forks. A steering damper completes the overall specification.

A fully adjustable Sachs rear suspension unit features a stylish and practical side-mounting, enabling increased space for the rear cylinder head. The unique positioning renders the suspension unit totally accessible for spring pre-load and compression and rebound damping and is designed with a progressive linkage operating through a double-sided swingarm.

Bosch Brembo Braking system with 3-level ABS
Included as an integral part of the Ducati Safety Pack (DSP), the 899 Panigale is equipped with the Bosch ABS 9MP controlled Brembo braking system, an impressive combination of state-of-the-art security and proven performance. Shorter stopping distances with enhanced stability is further enhanced with full Riding Mode integration taking the 899’s braking to the next level of rider feeling.

From the 3-level programmed system, level-1 enables front only ABS with no rear lift-up prevention, intended for the track-oriented “Race“ Riding Mode, while level-2 delivers high braking performances with reduced rear lift-up prevention for sport-oriented road use in “Sport“ Riding Mode. Level-3, used in the “Wet“ Riding Mode, delivers the most braking stability with maximum lift-up prevention. An option to disable the ABS in each individual Riding Mode is available via the instrumentation, and the system allows the setting to be saved and memorised at the next ignition-on.

The front brakes use twin radially-mounted Brembo, four piston, Monobloc M4-32 callipers actuated by a high performance radial master cylinder. The fronts grip 320 mm discs, while a single 245 mm disc on the rear is gripped by a single Brembo calliper.

Wheels and tyres
The 899 Panigale rolls on lightweight 10-spoke wheels in 3.5 in front rim width and 5.50 in rear, enabling a fast change of direction and enhanced acceleration and braking performances. They are fitted with Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa tyres with a 120/70 ZR17, on the front and an agility-enhancing 180/60 ZR17 on the rear.

Designed as a high performance tyre for the road and excellent for track sessions, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa profile and structure make it a perfect choice for the 899 Panigale with optimum support ensured during vehicle inclination and rapid realignment on corner exit. Developed with Pirelli’s latest Enhanced Patch Technology from World Superbike, the tyre uses a multi-compound composition with three zones on the rear that optimise the area of contact, ensuring optimum grip on road and track.

Ducati Riding Modes
Ducati’s industry-changing Riding Modes effectively offer an optimised set-up appropriate to rider and environment by selecting from a choice of three pre-set modes. Each Riding Mode is pre-programmed to instantly change engine character in addition to ABS, DTC and EBC levels - even while riding. The modes are made possible by combining a number of class-leading technologies.

An electronic Ride-by-Wire (RbW) system administers different mappings to regulate power delivery, while the Ducati Traction Control system (DTC) uses eight levels of system interaction to enhance control by reducing wheel-spin and the 9MP generation Bosch processor provides three environment-appropriate antilock levels. EBC monitors crankshaft de-acceleration under heavy braking and administers RbW throttle opening to maintain optimum tyre traction.

Race Riding Mode
The Race Riding Mode provides the track rider with 148 hp with direct RbW throttle response, reduced DTC system intervention, a race-oriented EBC level and front-only ABS with no anti-rear lift-up.

Sport Riding Mode
The Sport Riding Mode provides the road or track rider with 148 hp, delivered with a “smooth” RbW throttle response, slightly increased DTC system intervention, a sport-optimised EBC and front and rear ABS with anti-rear lift-up.

Wet Riding Mode
The Wet Riding Mode provides the road or track rider with 100 hp, delivered with a “smooth” RbW throttle response, increased DTC system intervention, environment-appropriate EBC and fully enhanced ABS for low grip conditions.

 

899 Instrumentation
The 889 Panigale has a compact instrumentation panel with a well arranged and data-rich black on white LCD display. The unit displays RPM from 0-12000 in an easy-to-read bargraph positioned in a semi-circular shape across the top of the unit with speed indicated prominently in the centre of the screen.

The three riding modes of Race, Sport and Wet are positioned left of the vehicle speed value and are easily scrollable using the indicator cancel button on the left-hand switchgear. When each Riding Mode is selected its corresponding EBC, DTC and ABS levels are displayed to the right of the vehicle speed value with additional tags displayed above them to confirm Stopwatch, DDA or DQS functions when activated.

Further left of the three Riding Modes, the screen also displays a numeric gear indicator, a tag to confirm actuation of automatic lap-time GPS (if DDA+ accessory is fitted) and a service icon which appears when scheduled maintenance is due.

Engine coolant temperature is displayed at the lower centre section of the screen with rectangular windows of additional data positioned either side, scroll-controlled using two buttons positioned above and below the indicator cancel button on the left-hand switchgear. The upper button scrolls the left window to present total mileage, trip A, trip B, trip reserve fuel, trip time, time and lap time, while the lower button scrolls the right window for air temperature, fuel consumption, average fuel consumption and average speed.

Illuminated icons on the top left of the instrumentation, from left to right, show warnings for left turn signal, engine electronics, ABS-off and neutral, while from top right of the instrumentation, from right to left, are turn signal right, fuel reserve, main beam and oil pressure. In the middle of these two banks of warning lights, and designed to advise via the rider’s peripheral vision, are a strip of red lights incrementally counting-up to engine over-rev, until finally illuminating also the main red over-rev warning light in the top centre of the display. Below the main top, centre over-rev bar is a second bar that illuminates orange to denote DTC interaction.

When the 899 Panigale is stationary, the instrumentation is accessible as a user-friendly control panel to personalise and save ABS, EBC, DTC, DQS, and RbW settings within each Riding Mode. Additionally, the stopwatch function, actuated manually by using the flasher button on the left-hand switchgear (or automatically with the GPS equipped DDA+ available as an accessory) can list the last 30 recorded lap times, each time also recording the associated lap number, maximum speed and maximum rpm. The brightness level of the display can also be adjusted from the same control panel area.
 

Essential Desmo
The need to control the enlarged valves with the extremely precise Desmodromic system prompted engineers to replace the belt drive of previous Superbikes, mounted on the first Ducati Pantah in 1979, with a configuration mixing both chain and gears. As a result, the chain timing allows an efficient transmission of the motion between crankshaft and camshaft transmission and thanks to the automatic tensioning adjustment, ensures constant reliability and a reduction in routine maintenance costs.

Architecture
The engine has been designed as the structural element of the frame. As such, its architecture has been completely reviewed to ensure the best design in terms of structure, weight distribution and robustness.

The cylinders, at a 90° angle to each other, have been rolled back an additional 6° on the crankcase to produce a 21° angle between the front cylinder and the horizontal plane. This has allowed the engine to go forward, accordingly improving the distribution of weights between the front and rear end and achieving the perfect position of the fastening points of the cylinder heads into the monocoque chassis of the 899 Panigale.

Transmission
Ducati engineers took their design freedom to the limit by increasing the distance between centres of the six-speed gearbox shafts and allowing the use of wheels with an increased diameter and superior strength for the transmission of power delivered. Also included is an oil bath clutch, a recent innovation for Ducati Superbikes that performs as well on the street as it does on the racetrack - offering smooth engagement, good feel, and light effort at the lever.

Flawless Performance
The Superquadro is the most powerful twin-cylinder engine on the planet, and as evidence of the Ducati 1199 Panigale's flawless performance, it has been given the task of equipping the new bike. In the innovative Superquadro engine, the power has been increased up to 195 HP@10,750 rpm, an absolute reference for a series-produced twin-cylinder, while torque has been increased to 13.5 kgm@9,000 rpm. And thanks to the Riding Mode options, the rider is able to modulate power delivery based on riding style and road conditions.

Full Ride by Wire
The opening and closing of the fuel feed throttles on the Superquadro are controlled by the electronic device Ride by Wire. The absence of a mechanical connection between the twistgrip and the throttle bodies allows the engine ECU to regulate the power delivery by acting upon the throttle's opening angle; the Ride by Wire makes it possible to have different power and delivery based on the selected Riding Mode (Power Modes), and also to punctually manage the engine brake (EBC), as well as aiding to control the slipping of the rear wheel (DTC).

Superquadro Breathing
After achieving the goal of improving engine "breathing", the Superquadro engineers turned their attention to the next challenge: to attain an engine calibration that optimally combines the high-performance delivery with regular operation achieved by reducing the cyclic dispersion of combustion. To obtain this, Ducati introduced a system of secondary air that completes oxidisation of the unburnt hydrocarbons, effectively reducing the levels of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide (CO). The system is controlled by an electronic valve commanded by the engine control unit and is activated according to the specific condition of engine operation. This valve makes it possible to let in the exhaust pipe of each cylinder head (in a position slightly downstream of the exhaust valve) a flow of clean air originating directly from the airbox. A second reed valve located in the engine head makes this flow unidirectional. The controlled inlet of oxygen makes it possible to complete the combustion of outgoing hot gases, eliminating eventual fractions of unburnt fuel which in certain conditions can reach the exhaust.

Decompressor
At the extremity of the exhaust camshaft of each cylinder head is a centrifugal decompressor. On start-up, the device allows the profile of the cam opening lobe to be modified, resulting in a slight lift of the valve that discharges part of the mix contained in the combustion chamber during the engine's compression phase. This effect makes it possible to reduce the resistance to the motion of the piston in the compression phase. Once the engine is started, the increase in rpms and the relative centrifugal force modify the configuration of the device, cancelling the effect of the valve lift and bringing the engine back to normal operating conditions. This ingenious device facilitates the starting of the Superquadro engine without having to use a more powerful battery and a large starting motor, in turn making it possible to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle by 3.3 kg. The system further underlines the synergistic strength achieved by engineers and designers in the intense effort to reduce the bike's weight.

Extreme Bore/Stroke Ratio
The 899 Panigale's extremely oversquare bore/stroke ratio of 1.75:1 (100 mm bore/57.2 mm stroke) allows for reliably high rpm thanks to the ultra-short stroke of the crankshaft, while the large surface of the pistons allows for large valve diameters (41.8mm intake, 34mm exhaust) to let the engine breathe freely.

Monocoque Technology
The 899 Panigale's chassis continues the innovative Monoscocca concept: different components have been integrated to give shape to a single compact and lightweight element that also enhances the rider's posture to perfect the riding position. The monocoque structure in cast aluminium for increased strength uses the Superquadro engine as a structural element and allows Ducati Superbikes to be lightest-in-class. The monocoque frame is fixed directly to the cylinder head, and at its front are two aluminium bushings inserted with the steering tube bearings. In addition to performing the traditional function of a frame, the monocoque also acts as an airbox. Housed inside it, in addition to the air filter, are the throttle bodies and fuel circuit complete with injectors; and the bottom of the steel tank (lighter by 1.9% compared to previous generation Superbikes) becomes its cover when mounted in place.
Innovative Suspension

As on the 1199 Panigale, the 899 Panigale's fork legs are set at an increased distance between centres, typical of racing bikes in the Superbike World Championship. Thanks to this detail, even the brake discs have a greater width when mounted to allow optimal cooling even during the hardest use. The 899 Panigale features a 43mm Showa Big Piston Fork, which provides damping under lower-pressure conditions as compared to a traditional fork. This gives optimal front-end feeling to enter corners with the utmost precision, with high resistance to diving when the brakes are applied. The rear suspension consists of a fully adjustable Sachs rear monoshock, laterally mounted for ease of adjustment access and connected via progressive linkage for the best rear suspension response under road and track conditions.

Ergonomics
The 899 Panigale has been ergonomically designed for a perfect integration between rider and motorcycle. A comfortable grippy seat, thin between-the-legs profile, and optimized handlebar location provide the perfect position from which to command the bike with confidence and precise control, on the track or the street.

Braking System
The 899 is equipped with staggeringly powerful, yet not overwhelming, Brembo Monobloc M4.32 front brakes; which come standard with the latest-generation Bosch 9MP Antilock Braking System. This enables the shortest possible braking distances even in wet or dirty road conditions, while also controlling rear wheel lift to provide maximum braking stability. Specifically calibrated for sport riding, the system features 3 intervention levels, each associated with a Riding Mode. In Race Mode, the system operates only on the front discs to allow advanced race-braking techniques on the track.

Weight Distribution
The 899 Panigale features a weight distribution equivalent to 52% at the front and 48% at the rear without the rider. The ratio then becomes an optimal 50:50 when the rider is on the seat to guarantee absolute stability and handling. To achieve this optimal configuration, solutions were implemented to allow a concentration of the weights at the front: the engine has come forward, the exhaust system is placed under the engine, and the rider's position is advanced.

Exhaust System
"The layout of the exhaust manifolds is 2 into 1 into 2 with twin silencers under the sump. The design of the exhaust assembly is a work of highly refined engineering: the ends have a complex exterior shape due to the size restrictions necessitated by the "deep sump" of the engine (on the interior) and the leaning angle (on the exterior). The primary manifolds and central manifolds are made from large-diameter thin-walled stainless steel tubing, with the two short exits from the cylinder heads slightly thicker to better resist vibrations. Even the silencers are in stainless steel with exception of the outer sleeve (or outer jackets) in aluminium alloy (result of a process of pre-deep drawing, rolling and longitudinal welding). The reflection silencers have three chambers; in this application the chamber layout is especially complex with respect to older designs because the exhaust gas enters from the rear (with respect to the direction of travel) inside the silencer and exits again from the outside rear. From a construction perspective, this also required a complex design, with the catalytic converters positioned at the inlet of the silencers.

ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) 9MP

The 9MP ABS standard on the 899 Panigale is a latest-generation system with two channels that performs combined braking with control of rear wheel lifting to guarantee not only shorter braking distances, but also the greatest stability during braking. Specifically intended for sport use, the 9MP ABS offers three levels of operation, each associated with a Riding Mode; in the Race mode, the system works only on front discs to allow advanced track braking techniques for expert riders.

Full LCD Instrument Panel
The instrument panel on the 899 Panigale is an advanced multifunctional LCD unit, with layout derived from Ducati Corse's experience in World Superbike and MotoGP. Showing a vast array of information in a format highly visible even when tucked behind the windscreen at maximum velocity, the dash also changes its display according to the riding mode selected - ensuring that the rider always has the most important information for each use, available at a glance.

Ducati Traction Control (DTC)
The Ducati Traction Control (DTC) monitors control of the slipping of the rear tyre and operates on the basis of eight different levels of interaction, each of which has been programmed to respond to a different tolerance to rear slipping. Each Riding Mode is assigned a pre-set level of activation.
Level 8 indicates an activation of the system at the detection of the slightest slipping, while Level 1, reserved for very expert riders, has a higher tolerance and thus a less invasive intervention of the system.

Riding Mode
The available Riding Modes are the result of the combination of highly advanced dedicated technologies. The rider atop the 899 Panigale can choose among three different pre-set Modes - Race, Sport, and Wet - to adapt to his riding style or the riding conditions. The Riding Modes instantly modify the power delivered by the engine (Power Mode), ABS activation level, DTC, DQS and EBC, as well as the graphics on the instrument panel. Additionally, each Riding Mode is fully customisable in all parameters, for a truly personalised setting.

Ducati Quick Shift (DQS)
The Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) is the electronic system that manages the gearbox and is used in competitions. It allows the gear to be engaged on acceleration without the use of the clutch and while maintaining the throttle open. The feature enables the rider to gain precious fractions of seconds, helping to considerably reduce lap times.

DDA+ ready
The DDA+ (an option on the 899 Panigale, 1199 Panigale, and 1199 Panigale S; standard on the R) is the latest generation of the Ducati Data Analyzer, which integrates the GPS signal to create a "virtual finish line". The system automatically detects, without any intervention by the rider, the conclusion of the lap and stops the chronometric time. Integration with the GPS signal also provides visualisation on the circuit map of the trajectories ridden and the main parameters of the vehicle: throttle opening, speed, rpm, gear engaged, engine temperature, DTC activation.

Rims
The 899 Panigale uses black 10-spoke rims, 3.5 inches at front and 5.5 inches at rear, which due to their light weight allow rapid changes in direction and improved performance both on acceleration and during braking.