Ducati 1299 Panigale S 2015 Unveiled: the Silicon Superbik

For Ducati, 2015 opens with the new Panigale, a superbike characterized by top-level components, electrifying performance, and iconic design.

The highlight of the superbike is, of course, a bigger engine. Displacing 1,285cc, the new Superquadro mill delivers very impressive numbers. Power is up to 205 hp, delivered at 10,500rpm, while torque is now rated at 144.6 Nm (106.7 lb-ft) at 8,750 rpm.

With a dry weight of 166.5 kilograms, the new 1299 Panigale is said to be "the new benchmark for ultra-high performance bikes" when it comes to power-to-weight ratios.

The company also integrated an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), which allows the rider to count on  Cornering ABS, along with Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC).

We were also very eager to check out the new Ohlins Smart EC suspension system, which is also computer-controlled and is the the same one used by the new Yamaha R1M. Ducati describes this systems as being "event based". When braking for a corner, the dampers stiffen for extra body control and stability. Mid-corner, the front forks can loosen the damping to improve control and on the way out, the rear rear suspension stiffens to provide more grip, so you can put the power down sooner.

The 1299 Panigale is also one of the most technologically advanced models around. In fact, we could argue that the computerized systems are the real story here. The new electronic package developed by Ducati incorporates three distinct Riding Modes. Show them your instrument cluster and all your biker friends should agree that the 1299 Panigale is the coolest model they've seen.