EICMA 2012: Ducati Unveils Track-Oriented 1199 Panigale R for WSBK Homologation

Ducati has unveiled a new R version of its 1199 Panigale, providing an upgraded version of the sportbike for World Superbike homologation. Unveiled at the 2012 EICMA Show, the 2013 Ducati 1199 Panigale R is based on the S model but with lighter components, ABS standard, a higher-revving engine, an adjustable swingarm pivot and full race kit.

The Panigale R’s 1198cc engine receives new titanium con-rods Ducati claims shaves 1.38 pounds off the overall weight. The crankshaft flywheel is also lighter, trimming an additional 1.54 pounds. The lighter engine components as well as the diamond-like carbon coated rocker-arms and revised engine mapping enable the R’s engine to rev up to 12,000 rpm, a 500 rpm increase on the Panigale S version’s rev limit.

The R race kit includes a high-penetration racing screen, machined alloy fairing mirror caps, full Termignoni exhaust system and track-only ECU mapping. According to Ducati, Panigale R still peaks at 192 hp at 10,750rpm and 98.1 ft-lb. at 9000rpm, but the race kit upgrades add a 3% increase in power at higher revs and a 15% increase in the mid-range.

The R-spec Panigale is equipped with an adjustable swingarm pivot, to allow the rider a choice of setups to optimize corner-exit traction. Riders can select from the base setup, raise the pivot position by 2 mm, lower it by 2 mm or lower it by 4 mm.

Contributing to its weight savings, the R model comes with carbon fiber swingarm protector, clutch cover protector, rear hugger, rear suspension guard, footrest heel guards, ignition switch surround and top fairing inner panels. According to Ducati, the Panigale R has a wet weight of 416.7 pounds, compared to the 414.5 pound S and base models and the 420 pound Tricolore and the 427 pound base Panigale.

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The 2013 Ducati 1199 Panigale R will be available in Ducati Red with white highlights and a red and brushed aluminum fuel tank and black Marchesini wheels. U.S. pricing is $29,995 for the 1199 Panigale R compared to $27,995 for the Tricolore version, $22,995 for the S and $17,995 for the base model. ABS is included on the Panigale R and available as an add-on for the base and S models for another $1000.

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[Source: Ducati]

By Dennis Chung