Ducati 1199 Panigale S 2012 vs. Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2017

In terms of technical specifications, the Ducati 1199 Panigale S 2012 and the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2017 have some similarities and differences.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Ducati 1199 Panigale S has a larger bore of 112 mm compared to the 76 mm bore of the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade. This means that the Ducati has a larger cylinder diameter, which can potentially result in better power delivery. However, the Honda Fireblade has a longer stroke of 55 mm compared to the 60.8 mm stroke of the Ducati, which can contribute to better torque output. In terms of power, the Ducati 1199 Panigale S has a slightly higher engine power of 195 HP compared to the 192 HP of the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade. However, the Honda Fireblade has a lower torque output of 114 Nm compared to the 132 Nm of the Ducati. Both bikes have a high compression ratio, with the Ducati at 12.5 and the Honda at 13.

Moving on to the suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front. However, the Ducati 1199 Panigale S has Öhlins suspension with TiN-coating, while the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade has Showa suspension with Big Piston technology. Both suspensions offer adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound. In terms of the rear suspension, the Ducati has a single swing arm with Öhlins suspension, while the Honda has a swing arm with Showa suspension. Both suspensions offer adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound.

Ducati 1199 Panigale S 2012

In terms of the chassis, both bikes have aluminum frames. However, the Ducati 1199 Panigale S has a monocoque frame type, which provides a more rigid and lightweight structure compared to the twin tube frame type of the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade.

When it comes to brakes, both bikes have double disk brakes in the front with radial, monoblock technology. The Ducati 1199 Panigale S has Brembo brakes, while the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade has Tokico brakes.

In terms of assistance systems, both bikes have ABS. However, the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade has additional advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2017

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120 mm and a front tire diameter of 17 inches. The Ducati 1199 Panigale S has a wider rear tire width of 200 mm compared to the 190 mm of the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade. Both bikes have a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The Ducati has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1437 mm compared to the 1405 mm of the Honda. The seat height of the Ducati is 825 mm, while the Honda has a slightly higher seat height of 832 mm. Both bikes have LED headlights and a fuel tank capacity of 16-17 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Ducati 1199 Panigale S has plenty of power, a quality traction point, great ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, light weight, and immaculate brakes. On the other hand, the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade has good brakes, low weight and nimble handling, an engine with plenty of power from the rev range, and high build quality.

In terms of weaknesses, the Ducati 1199 Panigale S has a very high purchase price. The Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade, on the other hand, lacks a shift assistant, has a sluggish and not very precise throttle grip, and its chassis may not be good enough to precisely set the scene for great handling. Additionally, it may have disadvantages at peak performance on long straights.