Text: Ole-Andreas Isdahl
Photo: Ducati Ducati is now realizing a super exciting project that will really lift the hats of riders operating in the naked mid-range segment. Ducati describes its new Streetfrighter V2 as a Pemigale without a fairing, packed with components in the goodies category and hefty performance. Compared to the previous V2 model, the changes are mainly linked to a significant weight reduction, a new lighter and more powerful engine where 70% of the maximum torque is pumped out already at 3000 rpm.
If we look at the model’s history and the announced modifications, we can see that this is a super-lightweight cornering god with excellent performance and a very high therapy and fun factor. The model comes in two versions, the standard V2 and the V2 S, which is slightly better equipped with Øhlins dampers at the front and rear, but the standard version comes with 43 mm Marzocchi and KYB at the rear. Streetfighter V2 can even be obtained as an A2. The Streetfighter V2 has been significantly modified and now weighs just 175 kg fully fueled. The classic L-twin engine delivers around 120 hp and an impressive 98 Nm, giving it an impressive power to weight ratio of 0.69, which is pretty hefty. Not in the “in saine” category, but certainly more than enough. Its predecessor was bigger and heavier, and admittedly had more power, but personally I’m convinced that Ducati is now taking the right steps by working with weight, finding new and more efficient engine technology and picking up technology from models that have proven to work well on other models.
The engine is 9 kg lighter than the previous Superquadro engine used on the V2 model and is the lightest V2 engine ever…The new V2 has a longer swingarm and wider handlebars to adjust the steering geometry and rider position for the better. Personally, I love wide handlebars so this is a good sign in itself. Combined with a low weight, a slightly longer wheelbase and a cheeky steering angle, the new V2 is both cornering-friendly and stable, and good dampers and Brembo M50 brakes ensure good contact with the ground at all times. Ducati gets a lot of power out of the 890 cc engine, but the service intervals for oil changes and valve adjustment are now 15,000 and 30,000 km respectively, which significantly reduces maintenance costs. “Ducati has received a lot of criticism for its high maintenance costs, so these are welcome and good moves. We have great faith in this and there is no doubt that the new Streetfighter V2 will be a real bundle of fun. Low weight means a lot to everyone and usually means that the fun can start at lower speeds and create a supportive driving experience without things getting out of hand in terms of speed. The design is, as always, both sensual and attractive, making the model a real eye-catcher. This is not something anyone should be ashamed to drive around with, by any means. We’re hoping for an early spring, dry roads and a bit of warmth to confirm the capabilities and handling of the Pirelli Diablo Rosso as a link to the tarmac. The new Ducati Streetfighter V2 is actually nicely priced with a starting price of 213,900. We’ll be back with more details once the bike has been inspected and ridden.
