Ducati’s “entry-level” superbike is now more powerful, thanks to an upgraded motor.
The Ducati 959 Panigale will replace the 899 Panigale for 2016, with a 955 cc L-twin motor (liquid-cooled, slipper clutch, Euro 4-compliant). The mini-Panigale now makes 157 hp at 10,500 rpm and 79.2 ft-lb of torque at 9,000 rpm.
The greater capacity comes from increasing the stroke of the previous motor from 57.2 to 60.8 mm; bore remains unchanged. The con rods and crankshaft had to be re-designed, and the piston crowns were also updated, but compression is unchanged. The engine still has 24,000 km valve service intervals.
Other highlights of the new 959 Panigale include quick-shift technology, a ride-by-wire throttle (that allows Race, Sport and Wet riding modes), eight-level traction control, three-stage Bosch ABS, and electronic brake control. Restyled bodywork allows the 959 to flow more air towards its intakes.
Suspension comes from 43 mm Showa forks up front, and a Sachs shock in back. The brakes feature twin, radially-mounted Brembo calipers up front, with 320 mm discs. The rear brake has a 245 mm disc mated to a Brembo caliper as well. Tires are Pirelli Diablo Corsa; a 120/70 ZR17 in front, and a 180/60 ZR17 in rear.
The 959 can also be outfitted with a GPS-enabled data analyzer that keeps track of your lap performance.
The 959 Panigale will be available in red with black wheels, or white with red wheels. No Canadian MSRP or availability has been announced yet.
GALLERY
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Since when is 959 ccs a middleweight ???