The lightest engine shall make for the lightest sport bike, isn’t it? Well, that’s what Ducati has got with the new Panigale V2.

Last year, Ducati introduced its lightest ever v-twin with 890cc, producing either 120 HP and 115 HP depending on which bike it goes in. Soon after, Ducati launched the next-gen Panigale V2, its lightest Panigale ever!

2025 Panigale V2 and Streetfighter V2

The new Panigale V2 is powered by the new 890cc, 90-degree v-twin in the 120 HP version. The peak power comes at 10,750 RPM while the torque of 93.3 NM arrives at 8,250 RPM. This motorcycle is 14 kg lighter than the previous Panigale V2, which is a pretty big deal. The Panigale V2S is further 3 kg lighter with overall weight savings of 17 kg.

Another highlight, which is no less important, is that for the first time in Ducati’s history, the new Panigale V2 is an all-new motorcycle and not based on its Superbike sibling. This approach gave Ducati greater freedom in engineering the motorcycle.

Compared to the new Panigale V4, the new Panigale V2 has an entirely different chassis, geometry, and design. It is easily distinguishable from the bigger V4 and more noticeably compact as well. It is the flat headlight design that lends a similarity between the two Panigales this time around and, of course, the overall clean design language.

The main frame is monocoque and that’s where the similarity ends with the frame in the previous Panigale V2. It is an all-new chassis which holds the engine as its structural element and also acts as an airbox; helps in keeping the bike weight low. The double-sided swing-arm is also entirely new and has a hollow design. Though it may look like the one in the new Panigale V4, it is not the same.

There is a big learning here for all of us (regardless of how we are connected with motorcycling); that double-sided swing-arms may look less fancy, but they’re possibly the best when it comes to achieving the best handling dynamics in a motorcycle.

The suspension on the base Panigale V2 is also fully adjustable; the front gets 43mm Marzocchi forks while the rear gets a Kayaba (KYB) shock absorber. The V2S gets the Ohlins NIX30 43mm forks with TiN treatment and there’s also a fully adjustable Ohlins monoshock at the rear.

What’s also very different from the previous Panigales is the rider ergonomics, something which may not be instantaneously visible to the eye. But the new forged aluminium semi-handlebars are mounted above the steering head, reducing the weight on the rider’s wrists. This setup also makes it a nicer street bike. However, the new Panigale V2 remains a track weapon as it is, but it’s just a little more comfortable to ride than before.

The shape of the fuel tank is further designed to help riders in controlling the motorcycle better during cornering and braking, be it on road or track.

It is still that exotic sports bike that a Ducati is. The uniqueness in its looks compared to the Panigale V4 gives it a new personality and it is just a fantastic looking motorcycle overall.

The 2025 Streetfighter V2 is as new and different as the new Panigale, after all, it is the same motorcycle without the fairing and clip-ons. Sharing the same engine (including the power and torque figures), chassis, and suspension, the Streetfighter V2 is as performance-effective as its faired sibling. The only limiting factor would be the wind resistance. But the Streetfighter V2 has its own appeal and this bike has always had an incomparable road presence.

This new generation of the Panigale V2 and the Streetfighter V2 present a more distinct separation from their V4 siblings. The all-new 890cc engine also makes them better middle-weight sport bikes, which further enhances the Superbike appeal of the Panigale V4 and the Streetfighter V4.