Ducati Streetfighter V4 / V4S Review: Raw Power Meets Refined Madness

The Ducati Streetfighter V4 and V4S represent the pinnacle of naked motorcycle engineering. Taking the heart of the Panigale V4 superbike and stripping it down to its bare essentials, Ducati has unleashed a machine that is as visceral as it is refined. It isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a statement of performance, heritage, and Italian design excellence.

From its debut, the Streetfighter V4 series quickly gained cult status among performance enthusiasts. With its MotoGP-derived DNA and aggressive street posture, it continues to redefine what’s possible in the hyper-naked segment.

Ducati Streetfighter V4 / V4S – Raw Power & Custom Accessories

Design and Aesthetics: Sinister, Sleek, and Unapologetically Bold

Looks That Kill

One glance at the Streetfighter V4 and you know it's something special. The aggressive stance, sharp bodywork, and signature LED DRLs shaped like angry eyebrows give it a predatory presence. Ducati calls it “The Fight Formula,” and the design perfectly embodies that attitude.

The minimalist front end, aerodynamic winglets (borrowed straight from the track), and single-sided swingarm blend style with function. Available in classic Ducati Red and the stealthy Dark Stealth (on the V4S), both variants are visual masterpieces.

Technology and Features: Racing Tech for the Real World

Ducati has packed the Streetfighter V4/V4S with cutting-edge electronics. You’re not just riding a bike—you’re commanding a high-performance computer on wheels.

Highlight Features

• 6-Axis IMU for cornering ABS, wheelie control, slide control

• Multiple Riding Modes: Race, Sport, Street

• Quick Shifter (up/down) for clutchless shifts

• TFT Full-Color Display with crisp layout and intuitive controls

• Ducati Power Launch (DPL) and traction control

• Optional Ducati Connect for smartphone integration

The V4S adds the Ducati Electronic Suspension EVO 2, which constantly recalibrates to road or track conditions.

Comfort and Ergonomics: Surprisingly Tame for a Tarmac Terror

The upright handlebar and slightly rear-set footpegs offer a balance between sporty engagement and everyday comfort. While not a touring bike by any means, the seat is plush enough for medium-length rides without complaints.

Ride Quality Breakdown

• Seat Height: 845 mm – tall for some, but manageable

• Suspension: Fully adjustable (V4) or semi-active Öhlins (V4S)

• Weight: 201 kg (wet, V4S) – light considering the power

The wind protection is minimal, but expected in a naked bike. Add a smoked flyscreen from the store to reduce fatigue on highway blasts.

Braking and Safety: Control That Matches the Chaos

Equipped with Brembo Stylema calipers and dual 330mm discs up front, the Streetfighter delivers razor-sharp braking. The rear features a 245mm disc with ABS cornering safety.

The Bosch cornering ABS system ensures you can brake deep into corners with confidence. And thanks to the lightweight chassis and sticky Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tires, this bike sticks to the road like glue.

Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance: Italian Power, with Practical Thinking

You don’t buy a Ducati V4 for fuel economy, but it still returns a respectable 6.9L/100km under mixed riding. Expect around 200-220 km from a full tank.

Ownership Insights

• Maintenance Intervals: 12,000 km or 12 months

• Valve Check: Every 24,000 km

• Parts Availability: Excellent via the Ducati network and aftermarket support

We recommend upgrading to a clear clutch cover or carbon fiber winglets—both available in the store—to personalize your ride and subtly improve cooling and aerodynamics.

Engine and Performance: Track Blood in Urban Veins

Heart of a Beast

At the core is a 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine, pumping out 208 horsepower at 13,000 rpm and 123 Nm of torque at 9,500 rpm. That’s superbike-level power in a naked chassis—insane, yes, but surprisingly manageable.

Twist the throttle and you’re greeted with ferocious acceleration, yet it remains remarkably composed thanks to advanced electronics. The V4S, with its semi-active Öhlins suspension, takes performance even further by adapting instantly to your riding style.

• Top Speed: Over 280 km/h (restricted only by wind resistance)

• 0-100 km/h: Approximately 3 seconds

• Use Case: Street domination, spirited canyon rides, and even occasional track days

Comparison and Competitors: Where It Stands

In the hyper-naked world, the Streetfighter V4 goes toe-to-toe with the likes of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R, Aprilia Tuono V4 Factory, and BMW S1000R.

• KTM: More torque, less finesse

• Aprilia: Similar tech, not as raw

• BMW: Precision focused, but lacks the soul of the Ducati

What sets the Streetfighter apart is the sheer emotion it delivers with every rev. No other bike blends this level of madness with this much style and control.

Ideal Riders and Target Audience: Who Is This Bike For?

The Ducati Streetfighter V4 and V4S are not beginner-friendly, nor are they for the faint of heart. This is a bike for:

• Experienced riders seeking a thrilling daily machine

• Track junkies wanting an unfaired Panigale experience

• Collectors and brand loyalists looking for Ducati’s best streetfighter

If you're a rider who thrives on edge-of-the-seat riding but still values modern safety and comfort, the Streetfighter V4 is made for you.

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Conclusion and Final Verdict: A Symphony of Speed and Sophistication

The Ducati Streetfighter V4 / V4S is more than just a motorcycle—it’s an event every time you fire it up. From its snarling V4 engine to its MotoGP-grade tech, it’s the closest thing you’ll get to a track bike with mirrors.

While its price and intensity won’t appeal to everyone, for those who get it, there’s simply nothing else like it. Whether you're looking to dominate your next canyon ride or turn heads at the café, this bike delivers in spades.

Ready to upgrade? Check out our curated selection of performance parts, riding gear, and Ducati-specific accessories to make the most of your Streetfighter experience.