#ChristmasWishes: 1299 Panigale R Final Edition by Ducati

Pouty lips in the fiercest red may earn you his attention, up straight. But, there is another red that pumps more adrenaline in him than any lipstick, little red dress, or racy lingerie can do. It is the roaring sound of a Ducati motorcycle.

For 90 years, Ducati has been synonymous with unforgettable high quality and exhilarating riding experience.

Though the company’s roots can be traced back to the 1920s, their involvement with motorcycle development and manufacturing began in 1946.

Featuring exclusive Desmodromic timing engines, innovative design and state-of-the-art technology, as well as a strong commitment to competitive racing, Ducati motorcycles have earned a place within the hearts of high-velocity motorcycle fans such as actors Tom Cruise, Ryan Reynolds, Brad Pitt, Jared Leto and Orlando Bloom.

In global racing arena, Ducati’s racing prowess is legendary. Through dedicated Ducati Racing team, Ducati has enjoyed many triumphant wins in both MotoGP and World Superbikes Championship races. 

Apart from its built-for-racing nature and outstanding performance, making the victories a reality is the burning passion within its notable riders such as world champions Valentino Rossi, Carlos Checa, Loris Capirossi, Sete Gibernau, Casey Stoner, Jorge Lorenzo, Chaz Davies and Andrea Davizioso to list a few.

This Christmas, why don’t you thrill your racing-champ-at-heart hero or perhaps, spend that god-sent year-end bonus with the new Ducati 1299 Panigale R Final Edition?

A motorcycle is still a motorcycle by any other name. What’s so special about it?

For the uninitiated, yes, a bike is just another bike. Yet, to superbike enthusiasts, the Ducati Panigale R Final Edition is like a greatest gift sent from the superbike heaven!

Reason being, Panigale has been the ride of champions, having won multiple victories in both MotoGP and WSBK races since 1988. Moreover, the new 1299 Panigale R Final Edition is an homage to the great Ducati Superbike tradition as it combines the best-ever twin-cylinder engine performance and racing-derived chassis set-up. 

Most importantly, the bike packs a 209hp (that’s horse power to you) punch at 11,000 rpm and a torque of 1405kgm at 9,000 rpm. In a way, every Ducati fan can bring out the racer’s spirit within!

Ok, I’m a bit hanged on the technical part. Fine, it’s the ride of the champions. But still, what makes it a good investment?

For a die-hard Ducati collector, 1299 Panigale R Final Edition is a must have because it is numbered. But don’t worry, the numbers aren’t limited so every Ducati fans in the world can own it! 

Furthermore, for men who love heeding two-wheel challenges on the road or on the track, this bike is made for both purposes. 

Equipped with titanium con-rods, the bike also comes with features that are distinctive from the 1299 Panigale version such as 48mm intake valves, 39.5mm exhaust valves and improved fluid dynamics. 

The 1299 Panigale R Final Edition too features a clutch with new slipper and self-servo system, giving heightened ‘feel and ride’ stability thanks to the use of a new forged aluminium clutch basket.

Speaking of racing, can I experience the MotoGP racing thrill on 1299 Panigale R Final Edition?

Good question! First, it has a complete all-titanium Akrapovič exhaust with a high dual silencer (Euro 4 compliant), just like the one on the official Panigale that competes in the World Superbike championship. Second is the Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). 

This MotoGP electronics feature sends information on vehicle dynamics to the ABS cornering, Ducati Wheelie Control EVO (DWC EVO) and Ducati Traction Control EVO (DTC EVO) systems. 

All these systems have several intervention levels, pre-selected according to the Riding Mode (Race, Sport, and Wet) and can be personalised as desired. 

On the other hand, the Ducati Data Analysis + GPS (DDA + GPS) records rider lean angles and the racing-derived handlebar switchgears allow fast DTC, DWC or EBC adjustments during track riding.

When I win a race or when I’m happy nonetheless, I will conjure a wheelie! Yet, there are times when I couldn’t get a grip on it.

Good news to you then: The 1299 Panigale R Final Edition is equipped with the latest version of Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO. 

This system has been overhauled in terms of both controller structure and algorithm, ensuring a more accurate response to the rider's needs. With DWC EVO, wheelie detection is more accurate and the system intervenes to keep it in check more firmly and precisely than ever.

What about the brake and the suspension? A great bike is useless without great braking and suspension system.

For braking, its massive stopping power is provided by Brembo M50 monobloc calipers, designed to be compact and weight-saving. The alloy calipers ensure greater stiffness and resistance to warping during hard braking. 

This means increased hydraulic efficiency, ensuring both spectacular stopping power and enhanced brake lever precision and 'feel'. For suspension, the vehicle is equipped with mechanical suspension consisting 43 mm fully adjustable Öhlins NIX 30 TiN-coated upside down forks up front, fully adjustable Öhlins TTX36 monoshock with titanium spring on the rear, and a 24° rake. The 1299 Panigale R Final Edition also has an adjustable Öhlins steering damper.

I always believe that the heritage and the know-how always justify the value. How can I be greatly assured that this Ducati 1299 Panigale R Final Edition worth my money?

When it comes to heritage and savoir-faire, Ducati can be equated to a maison. Since the production of its first complete motorcycle called Ducati 60 circa 1949 up to today, the brand has been faithful to the codes of the house. 

From its conceptualisation to development and right to the production stage, all of Ducati motorcycles are made in Italy in their factory in Borgo Panigale (that’s how Ducati’s Panigale motorcycle got its name) using the latest technology. 

There’s also a Race Department within the factory that is dedicated to, you guess it, developing racing machines to ensure more triumphant wins in future races!

Does it come in a single colourway or many?

The 1299 Panigale R Final Edition comes in red, white, green colour scheme and red wheels.

Cool! Where can I get it?

While the 1299 Panigale R Final Edition will be available commercially next year, if you fancied to be the first to own it, just drop by your nearest Ducati dealers today for more info.

*Photos courtesy of Ducati

To locate your nearest Ducati dealers in Malaysia, visit www.ducati.com.my for locations and further information.