Ducati 959 Panigale review, test ride

Verdict

With the 959 Panigale, Ducati has built a motorcycle to cater to draw more riders into the superbike fold. The 959’s blend of electronic sophistication, manageable power, confidence-inspiring handling and enjoyable agility make it a well-rounded motorcycle. The 959’s price tag for India of Rs 14.37 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai), also lands it in quite a sweet spot as it sits just above the less exotic, less powerful but uber-sporty Triumph Daytona 675R. On the other hand are the more powerful litre-class motorcycles from Japan, but they don’t carry as much appeal and cost several lakhs more. While we haven’t tested Ducati’s new 959 Panigale in the real world and on Indian roads, its combination of ergonomics, engine character and suspension setup suggest that it will be a fairly liveable motorcycle. For now though, the 959’s ability to excite without being overwhelming, its incredible confidence, electronics, exotic appeal and left-brain sensibilities make it a package that makes more sense with every passing minute.