Ducati’s most potent twin-cylinder superbike, which was also its final model, was the best for last.
Comparatively few manufacturers have proven true prowess in robust twin-cylinder engines, unlike inline-four mills. But if there’s one motorcycle manufacturer who has succeeded in this regard, it has to be Ducati. Prior to 2019, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer produced only twin-cylinder motorcycles, but it still dazzled the world with some mind-boggling engineering feats. The Panigale 1299 R Final Edition, which the bikemaker unveiled in 2018, was the jewel in the crown. Not only was this Team Red’s last liter-class superbike with the specified layout, it was also the company’s most potent twin-cylinder motorcycle. An opportunity to purchase one is presented along with a look back at this icon.
The Ducati Panigale 1299 R Final Edition Had 209 Horsepower
Yes, you read that correctly: the Panigale 1299 Final Edition, which is now five years old, produced a mind-blowing 209.4 horsepower (at 11,000 RPM) and 104.7 pound-feet (at 9,000 RPM) from its 1,285cc, Superqaudro L-twin engine. The engine was packed with high-end components, including titanium con rods, valves, a racing air filter, and a crankshaft infused with tungsten, all of which were finished off with an Akrapovic titanium exhaust that was taken directly from the 1299 Superleggera. These figures were excellent at the time, and they still sound reasonable in 2023. Considering that other contemporary liter-class sport bikes typically produce around 200 HP, the current flagship Ducati Panigale V4 SP2 has just six more horsepower (215.5) than the maximum.
The Final Edition had a lot more to leave a lasting impression if you weren’t already. The monocoque aluminum chassis was modeled after the WSBK-spec 1299 Panigale R. This teamed up with top-tier, fully adjustable Ohlins TTX36 monoshock forks and Ohlins NiX 43 mm upside-down forks. The single-sided swingarm and the 17-inch Marchesini forged wheels were also given the aluminum treatment. The 1299 FE only weighed 419 pounds (curb) thanks to these and a few carbon fiber parts. This translates to an insane power-to-weight ratio of 1.1 HP/kg, which is on par with or better than many multi-million dollar supercars.
Ducati equipped the Panigale with WSBK-derived electronics to effectively use all that grunt. Ride and power modes, wheelie and traction control, a bi-directional quickshifter, cornering ABS, engine brake control, a Ducati Data Analyzer, and all of these features come standard on the motorcycle. The package was completed with a TFT instrument cluster and gorgeous design. The latter was distinguished by a distinctive paint job and featured the seductive tricolore livery in shades of red, white, and green. Topping this off were raw carbon fenders, a deep red finish on the Y-spoke alloy wheels, and a higher windscreen up top to help mitigate the windblast at seriously unlawful speeds.
Only 1,299 Units of the Ducati Panigale 1299 R Final Edition Went into Production
The Final Edition marked a significant turning point in the history of Ducati because following this, the company’s flagship superbikes switched to a V4 powerhouse. Additionally, it served as a tribute to Ducati’s love affair with twin-cylinder engines, which began with the introduction of the 851 in 1987. Due to this, the bike manufacturer only produced 1,299 FEs (worldwide), each of which cost over $40,000.
Five years from now, the Special Sport Bike will go down in history as one of the most significant Ducati superbikes. Die-hard Ducatists have a huge following for it, and if you’re in the market for one, there’s good news. The #509 1299 R Final Edition is up for auction at Iconic Motorbike Auctions. On the odometer, it shows 11,362 miles and is generally spotless. The Brembo Corsa Corta master cylinder, race bike-like billet switches, Luimoto seat, carbon fiber seat cowl, carbon exhaust shield, and quick-release fuel cap are all included, along with both original keys. The Pirelli Supercorsas we see here do appear to be fairly worn, so you will need a new set of tires.
In conclusion, based on the auction site’s past sales, we anticipate this to sell for between $30,000 and $35,000. Yes, that is a significant sum of money, but keep in mind that the value of such motorcycles only rises over time. Not to mention that we’re about to transition to an electric future, which will only increase the value of any iconic ICE motorcycle. The deadline for placing a bid is June 15 (the end of the auction), so make up your mind soon.
Reference: www.topspeed.com
