Ducati unveils the Panigale V4 SP2, a carbon-clad track weapon for those who wish they could be a World Superbike rider but haven't quite made it!

Ducati Panigale V4 SP2

Ducati claims the new Panigale V4 SP2 is the pinnacle of track performance for riders who haven't reached the giddy heights of World Superbike Championship participation.

Using the 1103cc V4 engine from the V4S as opposed to the homologation version from the V4R that measures just less than 1000cc, the SP2 is as close as you can get to WSB performance without having to spend a king's ransom.

Built on the 1103cc V4 Desmosedici Stradale from the V4S, rather than the 1000cc V4R, the SP2 has been designed to be as fast as possible, while remaining user friendly for people who don’t currently race in WSB.

The main elements of the SP2 are the carbon goodies that are fitted, including carbon fibre wheels a carbon front mudguard, raw carbon wings and machined Rizoma footpegs.

Going even further, Ducati has even fitted a WSB spec 520 chain. The overall weight saving is 5kg, which doesn't sound like a lot, but the majority of the weight is lost from the wheels, which will help with handling on track. The engine remains unchanged and produces an enormous 212.5bhp.

An option is an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system, which unlocks a further 12bhp and sheds a further 5kg from the weight.

The clutch is now an STM-EVO dry clutch which can be specified with alternative spring stiffnesses, allowing the rider to tune the mechanical engine braking to his or her preference.

The suspension remains the semi-active Öhlins electronic as fitted to the 'S' model and the brakes have been uprated to Brembo Stylema calipers.

To find out how much quicker you are on the SP2, it comes equipped with Ducati's GPS real-time data logger. On the other hand, if you don't want to depress yourself, maybe leave that turned off!

The SP2 sports a unique paint job, echoing the 'winter test' livery of WSB bikes. That means matt black bodywork with a large Ducati Corse logo and red accents. The tank is brushed aluminium.

Of course, none of this is going to come cheap. The UK price is 34.295 pounds sterling, which at current exchange rates is around $45,000 and the Akrapovic exhaust system will add another $6,500 to that.

Who said speed is cheap?