10 Modern Ducati Motorcycles That Dominate Every Segment

In the world of motorcycles, there are only two types of riders out there. First, the Ducatistis (proud owners of Ducati bikes) and non-Ducati owners, who are married to other manufacturers’ bikes but have an indomitable wish to lay their hands on a Ducati. While the hefty price tag of these bikes is heartbreaking for many, if we look into the power and features, it starts to make sense.

Owning a Ducati is an exciting experience, but writing about Ducati motorcycles is a challenging task. The Italian manufacturer has a sheer tendency to break the rules, push beyond their limitations, and set new trends. And this is reflected in every model, regardless of the category. So, the challenge is to unlearn the existing concepts and learn them again in the Ducati way. For example, the Diavel V4 is not the usual cruiser you know.

Ducati has produced a number of the most beautiful and expensive motorcycles fit for several specialties. For example, the desmodromic valve system, super smooth handling, unique design language, and, obviously, that sweet roar from the exhaust. But what makes Ducatis stand out is their often monstrous power output. In this article, we will explore the power figures of Ducati machines from every segment and their closest competitors.

Looking at the data from the Ducati website, as well as authoritative websites like motorcycle.com and cycleworld.com, we have put together this list with the most accurate and relevant information. The motorcycles on this list were rated from the lowest horsepower engine to the highest, along with a comparison of power output with their closest competitors.

10 Ducati Scrambler 1100 Sports Pro

Power Output: 86 Horsepower

Here is a fun fact for Ducati lovers: The scrambler was specially made for the American market. The Berliner brothers, the US importer of Ducati, requested the manufacturer build a bike that would suit the tastes of American riders. Hence, the first Scrambler was launched in 1975.

Today, Ducati has a full-scale Scrambler line-up with nine variants, and the 1100 Sports Pro is the beefiest one. Particularly made for city dwellers, this bike has a punchy L-twin engine. With a low-slung handlebar, café racer-style rearview mirrors, and a beautiful matte black color scheme, this bike is a head-turner.

Comparison of Power Outputs

(Sourced from Ducati, Triumph and BMW)

The Sports Pro is capable of multi-terrain riding because of the 150mm wheel travel allowed by Ohlins suspensions on both wheels. The engine power is managed by three riding modes and Ducati traction control; there is also a ride-by-wire and inertial platform for enhanced electronic support.

Model Highlights

• A black metallic X inside the headlight to recreate the 70s practice of using tape in a cross pattern to preserve the headlight cluster.
• Brembo brakes with non-switchable one-level ABS intervention.
• Most powerful scrambler in the line-up.

9 Ducati DesertX

Power Output: 110 Horsepower

The DesertX is a no-nonsense adventure bike built with a focus on performance only. Its minimalist design approach may make it less stylish than Kawasaki or Suzuki machines, but what gives it an edge is its precision and Dakarian performance standard.

Designed by Centro Stile Ducati, this bike boasts a robust design that makes it unstoppable even on the toughest tracks. The ergonomic rider triangle, together with the wide and well-cushioned saddle, provides ultimate comfort while riding on rough tracks. The KYB front and rear long-stroke suspensions enable a confidence-evoking 9.8-inch ground clearance. Riders can swap the standard 34.4-inch seat height with a high or low seat as an available accessory. Adding more off-road character, the bike comes standard with an aluminum cowl protecting the engine and enhancing visual symmetry.

Comparison of Power Outputs

(Sourced from Ducati, KTM and BMW)

Under the skin is Ducati’s ever-dependable Desmodromic Testastretta 11-degree compact and lightweight engine. The engine’s versatile performance is featured in six riding modes, including enduro and rally modes.

Model Highlights

• The DesertX is the first modern Ducati with an off-road configuration.
• The engine is 3.7 pounds lighter than the previous generation and has new gear ratios for best off-road performance.
• A wide range of off-road and touring accessories are available.

8 Ducati Supersport 950 S

Power Output: 110 Horsepower

The Supersport 950 S is a road-going sports bike from Ducati. The power figure may be way less than the Superleggera and Panigale machines, but in terms of look and ride feel, the 950 S is a menacing sports machine.

Inspired heavily by Panigale bikes in terms of design language, the 950 S is featured with large air vents on the sides with lower fairings extended up to the side silencer to give it a track machine look. While the base version of the Supersport is almost similar to the S, the latter has Ohlins front and rear suspension instead of Marzocchi shocks. The front and rear suspensions are fully adjustable, and the windscreen is also adjustable for two positions.

Comparison of Power Outputs

(Sourced from Ducati, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Cycleworld.com)

At its heart, a Testastretta engine powers this machine, which is equipped with a ride-by-wire system. If you wish, you can turn this bike into a sports touring machine with the available touring package.

Model Highlights

• The trellis frame uses the engine as a structural member that reduces weight and increases structural rigidity.
• The seat is revised for regular road use and long riding.
• Riding mode customization is available.

7 Ducati Monster SP

Power Output: 111 Horsepower

Whenever Miguel Angel Galluzzi gets back to his whiteboard to design a motorcycle, he creates wonders. For example, the Monster SP. Launched in 1993, this stylish naked is the highest-selling Ducati ever.

The best part about Ducati machines is that you always get something extra than expected. Let’s take a look at Monster. Although it’s a naked bike, the manufacturer has loaded it with all the supersport-bevel equipment, such as Ohlins forks, Brembo Stylema brakes, Termignoni homologated silencers, Pirelli Diablo Rosso tires, and, cherry on top, Moto-GP-inspired livery.

Comparison of Power Outputs

(Sourced from Ducati, Yamaha, KTM, and Cycleworld.com)

The Testastretta inside, with its Desmodromic distribution, produces a massive blast of power, and the bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance technology to keep this beast under control.

Model Highlights

• Recalibrated electronics for better sporty performance on track.
• The steering damper included improved stability under acceleration and cornering.
• Newly added launch control for best possible acceleration.

6 Ducati Panigale V2

Power Output: 155 Horsepower

The Panigale V2 is the dark horse in Ducati’s stable, with the silhouette of the larger V4. Visually, the Panigale V2 retains the flowing Italian styling the range is revered for, with aggressive lines and head-turning black-on-black livery. Meanwhile, a thinner and lighter single-sided swingarm further amplifies the racing DNA in the chassis.

At the heart of the Panigale V2 beats Ducati’s Superquadro engine, delivering 5 extra horsepower than the outgoing model. This grants an exhilarating straight-line performance with a top speed of 150+ mph. Combined with a traction control system and a new electronically controlled suspension, even more precise handling is achievable.

Comparison of Power Outputs

(Sourced from Ducati, Yamaha, Honda, and Cycleworld.com)

Ducati prioritized making its superbike offerings more enjoyable and less intimidating for amateur enthusiasts. To achieve this, the ergonomics are less extreme, with clip-on bars mounted slightly higher for better control leverage from a less demanding riding posture.

Model Highlights

• The Diablo Rosso IV Corsa tires offer road and track versatility.
• Enabled with Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) for smartphone integration.
• The wet clutch of the bike is featured with an anti-patter and self-servo mechanism.

5 Ducati Diavel V4

Power Output: 168 Horsepower

After the discontinuation of the Harley-Davidson V-Rod, the cruiser segment went back to its archaic laid-back tradition. The Gen-Z cruiser enthusiasts were asking for some muscle and aggressiveness, and Ducati answered, “Say no more”! And Diavel took birth.

This ultra-futuristic interpretation of cruising defies the very notion of cruisers being old-fashioned, relatively slow, and low-tech machines. Inspired by the legendary muscle cars, Ducati designers have created an outstanding amalgamation of the ride feeling of a cruiser and the aggressive style statement of a naked. Look at the huge air intakes on the sides of the headlight, and you will understand how powerful the V4 Granturismo is sitting inside.

Comparison of Power Outputs

(Sourced from Ducati, Harley-Davidson, and Triumph)

The tech features of the bike are also amazing; there are four riding modes, namely, sport, touring, urban, and wet. Other standard tech features include cruise control, launch control, wheelie control, standard ABS, and a 5-inch color dashboard with Bluetooth-enabled smartphone connectivity.

Model Highlights

• The four-outlet muffler signifies the V4 Granturismo inside.
• Featured with rear cylinders’ deactivation during stops saves fuel consumption and reduces heat.
• Turn-by-turn navigation is available as an optional extra.

4 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS

Power Output: 180 Horsepower

What is the best thing about hybrids? They are always better than the regulars because they have the best of both sides. If Diavel is one testimony to this fact, then another is the Multistrada. This aggressively looking hybrid of a supermoto and a sports touring motorcycle shares its sporty DNA with Street Fighter and Panigale machines.

The generous use of carbon fiber components and a titanium subframe makes this bike a sturdy yet lightweight machine. For 2024, this Multistrada has evolved to be a beast and is the most powerful variant of the model line-up. Ducati has replaced the bike’s Granturismo V-4 engine with a Desmosedici Stradale straight from the Street Fighter V4.

Comparison of Power Outputs

(Sourced from Ducati, BMW, and Harley-Davidson)

Along with a more powerful engine, the RS has several other new additions. For example, 17-inch wheels replaced the earlier 19-inch, a new race mode replaced the usual enduro setting, and a MotoGP-inspired livery. The message is clear: this bike is track-ready.

Model Highlights

• This bike can accommodate all types of luggage: side cases, tank bags, and passenger seat bags.
• The front fender, hand guards, heat shield, and front beak are all made of lightweight carbon fiber.
• Rear cylinders are deactivated when the bike is stationary and when the engine temperature exceeds 158° F to improve thermal comfort.

3 Ducati Streetfighter V4 SP 2

Power Output: 208 Horsepower

The V4 SP 2 is the top-spec variant of the Streetfighter family, with a super powerful engine, killer naked looks, and a cutting-edge electronic package. Basically a stripped-down Panigale V4, this bike carries the same Desmosedici engine with almost similar horsepower. However, this bike is designed to be more road-oriented. For example, a new wet riding mode has been added, which makes it a more practical road-going option.

Building bikes with premium components is one of the identification marks of Ducati, and the V4 SP 2 is not an exception. Brembo brakes and Ohlins suspension are there, along with unique carbon fiber wheels. These wheels are not only lighter than the forged aluminum wheels on the Panigale V4, but they also reduce inertia during braking and turning.

Comparison of Power Outputs

(Sourced from Ducati, MV Agusta, Kawasaki, and Cycleworld.com)

Justifying the SP badge, the electronic package of the bike is also awesome. Derived from MotoGP, the ride and engine power modes have everything to unleash this beast for sporty riding, but when required, these will sober up the machine to be a gentle city dweller.

Model Highlights

• Featured with ‘Winter Test’ livery designed by the Centro stile Ducati.
• Equipped with the STM-EVO SBK dry clutch for a better slipper function.
• The “Track Evo” display mode replicates the layout used on the MotoGP Desmosedici.

2 Ducati Superleggera V4

Power Output: 224 Horsepower

The Superleggera V4 is the pinnacle of motorcycle engineering. Ducati is known for breaking conventions and pushing beyond boundaries, and the Superleggera is another example of that mighty mindset. Though currently no longer in production, this bike deserves a mention because it was the most exclusive bike Ducati ever produced.

As claimed by the manufacturer, this bike is the only motorcycle (and is limited to 500 examples) in the world in which the entire load-bearing structure is made of carbon fiber. To test the structure’s durability and agility, Ducati ran a series of sophisticated tests to ascertain its credibility to be road legal.

Comparison of Power Outputs

(Sourced from Ducati, BMW, Suzuki, and Cycleworld.com)

This extensive use of carbon fiber resulted in a total weight of only 350 pounds. Another 15 pounds can be reduced if you install the racing kit. The racing kit comes with an Arkapovic titanium exhaust along with other parts, and this increases the maximum horsepower to 231.

Model Highlights

• The power-to-weight ratio of 1.54/kg is unbeatable in its segment.
• Swing arm and wheel rims are also made of carbon fiber along with the frame.
• The aerodynamic design of this bike increases the downforce by 20% than the Panigale V4.

1 Ducati Panigale V4 R

Power Output: 240.5 Horsepower

What makes the Panigale V4 R superior to the Aprilia RSV4 RF and Yamaha YZF-R1 M? All these are actually track bikes made available to the public with road legal configurations. However, Ducati claims that its V4 R is the closest production motorcycle to a competition bike out there. So we dug into the claim and found some interesting facts.

The road configuration of the bike is rated for 218 horsepower, but the new Desmosedici Stradale engine has more to offer. You need to unleash this beast by adding an available racing exhaust and specially developed Shell oil. You will get 240.5 horses pulling you at a top speed of more than 195 MPH. Other than the engine, this bike is loaded with MotoGP and WorldSBK-level technologies. For example, the new main and flap wings are more compact and thinner for greater aerodynamic efficiency. The front and rear suspensions are also added with an extra 5 mm and 20 mm travel height to improve handling and center of gravity.

Comparison of Power Outputs

(Sourced from Ducati, Aprilia, and BMW)

The V4 R is equipped with a superior electronics package that includes traction control and a ride-by-wire system. As a part of the upgrade, the power modes and engine power maps are refined for superior performance.

Model Highlights

• 16,500 RPM on the sixth gear is the benchmark value in this displacement category.
• Refined traction control, ride-by-wire system, and engine brake control for improved track performance.