Ducati Unveils 959 Panigale at Milan

Ducati has revealed a range of motorcycles at the on-going Milan show including the Panigale 959. It will replace the Panigale 899 as the new “Supermid”, that’s what Ducati has termed their new Sportbike, and there are a host of changes including a slightly redesigned front fairing and the Euro-4 compliant version as well.

The new engine is 955cc and is the first Ducati engine made to pass Euro 4 emissions – the reason those not-so-goodlooking shotgun exhausts are there. However, the aftermarket cans for the 959 are underbody only keeping the aesthetics intact. It is also said that there’s a non Euro 4 compliant version 959 Panigale as well without those hideous shotgun silencers.

The new Panigale engine generates 157bhp at 10,500RPM and 79.2lb.ft of torque (107.3NM) at 9000RPM and the motorcycle weighs around 176kgs dry.

Below is the information from Ducati about the 959 Panigale:

'In 2016, Ducati's 959 Panigale is to become a larger capacity, even more versatile "Supermid" model. The Ducati 959 Panigale shares the same innovative stylistic features that characterise its 'bigger brother', the 1299 Panigale - but with an engine designed for a more enjoyable everyday riding experience and more thrills on the race track. The new 955 cm3 twin-cylinder power unit, the first Superquadro to have obtained Euro 4* type-approval, comes with a new stroke length and other innovations that have given rise to an even more impressive torque curve and increased maximum power, now 157 hp at 10.500 rpm. The increased torque and maximum power values do not imply shorter service intervals, therefore, valve clearance inspections are still only required every 24,000 kilometres (15,000 miles).

'The super-smooth engine continues to be a fully stressed member of the innovative monocoque frame, achieving both an outstanding power-to-weight ratio and ride-enhancing response and agility with a dry weight of only 176 kg* - while still ensuring full compliance with the structural limitations required by Euro 4* standards. The unmistakable 1299 Panigale-derived silhouette of this bike, even with a redesigned nose fairing, headlight and tailpiece, underlines the family DNA: the Ducati Quick Shift (DQS), Riding Mode technology including Ride-by-Wire, triple-stage Bosch ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Engine Brake Control (EBC) featured by the Panigale are in line with Ducati's very own standards of technological excellence.

'Every last detail of the 959 Panigale pays tribute to Ducati's legendary racing heritage. The wider nose fairing and screen improve aerodynamic performance and add to the aggressive look of the new front end, also enhanced by larger-section front air intakes. The split tailpiece design is the final touch to a real work of art: the 959 Panigale fairing, now including redesigned lateral air intakes and new rear view mirrors. The new bike is also equipped with aluminium billet-machined footrests for enhanced boot grip while riding.

'The 959 Panigale is available in traditional Ducati red with black wheels or a stunning Arctic White Silk with contrasting red wheels.'