2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4 S MC Commute Review

Ducati had a big void in its sport motorcycle model lineup for the last few years with the absence of the Streetfighter naked bike. Debuting 11 years ago, the rowdy-looking Streetfighter was fast and fun, but awkward handling too. It was eventually phased out after a short production period. However, with the reintroduction of the Streetfighter V4 S ($23,995), the Italian marque is capitalizing on the more refined, but still ultra-high-performance pedigree of its Panigale V4 superbike platform, in a more comfortable and upright package.

Related: 2020 Ducati Streetfighter V4 Prototype First Look

From the moment the kickstand is raised, the Streetfighter feels like a more polished machine than the Panigale. From throttle response and engine fueling to the supple (at times) suspension damping and well-proportioned ergonomics, the Streetfighter is a more finished-feeling streetbike. That is until you yank the twist grip and hear the shriek of the liquid-cooled 1,103cc V-4 as it surges toward its 15,000-rpm redline… Better hang on. Yet jet aircraft-like G-forces and an exhaust note that literally scares folks on the side of the road aren’t what defines the Streetfighter. What does is its mild manners.

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In addition to forged alloy wheels, this S-model is fitted with Ducati’s Öhlins electronic semi-active suspension that delivers above average ride quality over most surfaces. Suspension action is softer and more springy-feeling than its full fairing brother, yet remains capable at an elevated pace through turns. We did note a degree of mid-stroke fork harshness, but it isn’t a deal breaker. Push-button adjustment firms things up nicely, but the setup range is limited for faster and/or heavier riders. Fixed damping settings can be selected too, if desired. 

Even more impressive is its exceptional agility and class-leading steering prowess. You’ll be hard-pressed to ride a more maneuverable bike than this Ducati, especially considering its fueled 439-pound claimed curb weight. It certainly isn’t the lightest at a standstill, but agility in motion is impressive.

Stopping prowess is equally adept and the OE-fitted Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tires offer sure-footed grip and adequate stability. Three-way ABS control (plus off) takes the worry out of things when pulling deeply on either brake control. We preferred ABS 2 which enables cornering function and rear ABS. We never rode the bike hard enough in this setting to feel ABS interaction.

In typical Ducati fashion, the Streetfighter V4 is a tour de force in electronic rider aids. Traction, slide, wheelie, and launch control are standard as is an electronic quickshifter enabling clutchless up- and downshifts. However, the function of the quickshifter could be faster, and the control interface could be improved as well. Specifically the switch gear’s tactile control is sloppy when used with gloves and the menu system could be streamlined as well. It’s worth noting that Ducati has made great strides in this department, however it falls behind its rival from Austria. A 5-inch color TFT keeps tabs on everything, but the display could be larger and it doesn’t feature a touchscreen. The trip functions are also difficult to read at a glance.

LED lighting is bright and well integrated into the styling. The headlamp works well in a straight line during night rides, but the Streetfighter could benefit from cornering headlamps. Especially considering its lofty handling potential.

The sound, character, performance, and overall smoothness of the V-4 are a highlight of the Streetfighter. The engine delivers plenty of oomph at lower rpm and runs more smoothly than we recall the last time we rode the Panigale V4 S. The engine is playful at any rpm and things go into hyperdrive when the tach needle goes north of 10,000 rpm. The last time we dyno tested the Panigale V4 it churned out nearly 187 hp. The Streetfigher feels just as fast. It does come at a price, with fuel mileage in the high 20s to low 30s based on how often you wind the engine out.

Smoother, faster, and more polished in every way, the Streetfighter V4 lived up to its namesake and then some. More comfortable than we ever remember a Ducati sportbike being with a level of exhilaration and performance that needs to be felt to be believed, if you’re seeking a no-holds-barred naked bike, the Streetfighter V4 is it. 

Helmet: Shoei RF-SR

Jacket: Rev’It Tornado 3

Gloves: Rev’It Sand 3

Pant: Rev’It Tornado 3

Boots: TCX X-Cube Evo Air