Motorcycle specifications DucatiStreetfighter V2 2026 A wizened monster

Ducati is reorganizing its Streetfighter range, returning to the old days of the 848 / 1098. Gone are the days when the only engines in the range were those that really got the job done, whether V2 with just over 150 hp, or V4 with just over 200 hp. The new Streetfighter V2 loses cm3 and horsepower (33!!), but also sees its price drop. Could we say melt? Perhaps, from 18,690 euros in 2024 to 15,490 euros in 2025. that's 3,000 bales less, which is a lot of savings to burn more rubber!

The Streetfighter spirit is there

At first glance, especially in its red hue, the machine is immediately recognizable, and its Streetfighter kinship is unmistakable. In detail, however, there are two or three radical changes. These are the disappearance of the single-sided swingarm, an element that has always been as technical as it is aesthetic. The machine is now more or less in line with the segment's production, and loses a little of its DNA, since since its first appearance at the EICMA show in Milan in 2008 (already!!), the model had a single-sided swingarm.

This modification also sees the reappearance of a "classic" exhaust system with two tailpipes (like the latest Supersports), one on each side of the body. On the old model, the exhaust under the engine gave a clear view of the wheel, but now we can do without it, and technically, it also means less heat at the rear of the engine. The engineers have made life simpler. While we're on the subject of exhausts, we can see a few large welds, the finish of which leaves something to be desired on such a beautiful Italian, at the level of the intermediate catalytic converter and the lambda probe at the engine outlet. Perhaps Ducati will correct this in time.

The bodywork sublimates the model's DNA! We particularly appreciate the interplay of colors, with subtle touches of gray on the scoops and hoof to add a touch of elegance. The side view is quite spectacular, with the eye gliding naturally from the headlamp to the seat shell - nothing spoils the sculpture. Especially no unnecessary spoilers! We're delighted to find a motorcycle without appendages that are more or less justified for everyday use of a motorcycle with reasonable power. Many elements are common to the Panigale range, such as the rear shell and wheels.

The main aesthetic change between the V2 and the V2 S is that the V2 S is delivered in single-seater configuration, and that a passenger kit is required to carry (heckle?) a sandbag. The instrument panel is a new 5' TFT screen. It offers three display modes: Road, Road Pro and Track, which are designed, according to Ducati's press release, "to enable the rider to concentrate on riding, highlighting the most relevant information for each context thanks to a rational and comprehensive display".

Ducati has also sought to simplify screen reading. After a tendency for manufacturers to use these screens to display as much data as possible, this time the focus is on simplification. For example, the rev counter also acts as a gear change indicator, lighting up green at the ideal rpm for shifting up a gear, and red when over-revving.

Light as a feather

In terms of engine and chassis, the Streetfighter takes everything it can from the Panigale V2. The frame is a lightweight, efficient monocoque, using the engine as a load-bearing element. The swingarm is anchored to the rear of the engine, and the aluminum mini-frame connects the top of the engine to the steering column. It's not a trivial design, but it's a highly efficient one, as Ducati has been using this architecture for some years now.

The suspension is fully adjustable, allowing the rider to customize the Streetfighter V2's settings. The latter is fitted with a Marzocchi fork and Kayaba shock absorber, while the V2 S version is equipped with Öhlins suspension.

While many parts are shared between the Panigale and Street, the swingarm has been lengthened by 30 mm compared to the Panigale V2. The result is greater stability. The Streetfighter also gets a Sachs steering damper as standard.

The machine weighs just 178 kg, ready to go, but without fuel. Ducati constantly emphasizes this lightness (to make people forget the loss of power?), but also forgets that the last Streetfighter V2 weighed.... 178 kg dry weight. A measurement game that's hard to grasp, and an observation that can seem bitter ... Add some benzine and the new SF V2 should post around 189 kilos TPF. That's 11 less than its predecessor, but the 33 horsepower are still there... I don't know if we're really winning here?

The new aluminum wheels are fitted with Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires in 120/70 and 190/55, a change for the rear as the previous Street V2 was fitted with a 180 tire. The Brembo front braking system features two 320 mm discs and M50 monobloc calipers. A solid piece of equipment, especially given the gazelle's light weight.

New V2 engine: more technology, less displacement, less horsepower

For those who didn't take the course at the back of the class, the old V2 cubed 955 cm2 and produced 153 bhp at 10,750 rpm (112.3 kW). Maximum torque was 101.4 Nm at 9,000 rpm. Copious power, probably too much for a mid-range roadster. But Ducati saw it that way. From now on, the Streetfighter V2 is equipped with the new 90° twin with variable intake valve timing, Euro5+ approved, 890 cc and 120 hp. Its weight is 54.5 kg (-9.4 kg compared with the Superquadro it replaces).

If it loses value everywhere, including with a torque of 93.3 Nm at 8,250 rpm, Ducati tries to reassure that it is still relatively full, with 70% of the maximum value already available at 3,000 rpm. The Streetfighter V2 has three power modes: High, Medium and Low, with 95 hp. The bike is also available with a 35 kW A2 license.

So much for the numbers. Inside, this less powerful engine is nonetheless very modern. One example is its Intake Variable Timing (IVT) system, which varies intake valve timing over a range of 52°, via a timing actuator located at the end of the camshaft. While this technology makes it possible to achieve a fuller engine at mid-range without sacrificing power at high revs, it does require the Desmodromic system to be released.
Valves are hollow-stemmed, intake louvers are treated with DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) and cylinder liners are aluminum. Maintenance is relatively simple, with a service interval of 15,000 km and 30,000 km for valve clearance.

Total electronic control

The Streetfighter V2 is equipped with a six-axis IMU inertial platform, enabling it to operate a complete electronic package. This includes Cornering ABS with slide-by-brake functionality, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, Engine Brake Control and the new Ducati Quick Shift 2.0, the same system used on the Panigale V4, standard on both versions. S versions are also equipped with Ducati Power Launch and Pit Limiter.

Future owners and riders will be able to choose between 4 riding modes (Race, Sport, Road, Wet) to spice up, exhilarate or calm their daily commute. You'll also need to check out the options section to find some handy gadgets like cruise control, Turn-by-turn navigator, a USB socket to power a smartphone or a TPMS tire pressure sensor.

It blows hot and cold ..

So, what's the best thing about this Streetfighter? Its price has been reduced, which is very positive, but we saw the previous V2 version rapidly rise by 1,500 euros between 2022 and 2024. We'll see if the new version resists the irrepressible desire of manufacturers to increase their margins. The Streetfighter's "new" chassis doesn't do much to make up for the loss of horsepower. But, in itself, 120 hp on the road is already very interesting power and, as a riding experience, it's always more exhilarating to exploit a machine to the full and experience the handgrip feeling in the corner than to never really be able to weld. This loss of power is ultimately more philosophical, as it also replaces the Monster (111 hp) for ... 12,590 euros! The Streetfighter's plastic will have to justify the 3,000-euro difference in your eyes for 9 more horsepower. A difficult choice ..

Vincent Beaucousin - Manufacturer's photos