Ducati, the Italian motorcycle maker owned by Volkswagen AG, is preparing to launch a new model, the Streetfighter V4, which North American CEO Jason Chinnock believes will appeal to diehard fans of the brand.
In an interview with us, discussing the features of the new bike currently available for pre-order and coming in the spring, Chinnock said that “the suite of electronics will allow an average rider to feel like a pro.
Chinnock said a key specification of the Streetfighter V4 is the electronically controlled suspension by Öhlins that “will really adapt to the road while you drive.
Also, Chinok said, in this model Ducati “introduced aerodynamics for the first time on a naked motorcycle.
“That allows the driver with winglets,” accessories on the side of the vehicle that allow easier maneuvering, “the ability to accelerate or decelerate hard and have much more control.”
Chinnock is hopeful the new bike will drive the manufacturer’s growth and market share. The Panigale model, which directly influenced the Streetfighter V4, Chinnock said, was the leader in the superbike motorcycle segment in 2018, with a market share of more than 26%, Ducati announced.
“Motorcycles are not a practical transportation application; we use them for entertainment,” admits Chinnock. “There is a saying: the four wheels move the body, but the two wheels move the soul.”
