Get ready to rev your engines, because Ducati has just dropped two jaw-dropping special edition street bikes that are sure to ignite the passion of motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide. But here's where it gets exciting: these aren't just any bikes—they're tributes to two of Ducati’s factory MotoGP legends, Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia. And this is the part most people miss: each bike is a unique masterpiece, blending cutting-edge technology with the personal style of its namesake rider.
Ducati has unveiled two distinct versions of the Panigale V2, each dedicated to one of their star riders. The first is a nod to Francesco 'Pecco' Bagnaia, featuring a bold red-and-black ‘camo’ design inspired by his 2025 helmet and race number. The second honors 2025 MotoGP World Champion Marc Marquez, with eye-catching 93s emblazoned on the side fairing—a subtle yet powerful reminder of his debut as a factory Ducati rider during the 2024 Barcelona test. Both bikes proudly display their rider’s number on the front fairing, making them instantly recognizable on the street or track.
But here's where it gets controversial: while these bikes are undoubtedly showstoppers, they also pack a punch in terms of performance upgrades. Based on the Panigale V2 S—the same model both riders use for training—the PB63 (Bagnaia) and MM93 (Marquez) editions come loaded with premium components. For instance, the forged aluminum wheels are 1.5kg lighter than their cast counterparts, reducing inertia by 27% at the front and 21% at the rear. Ducati claims this enhances handling and responsiveness, but some purists might argue whether such upgrades are necessary for street bikes.
Other standout features include an adjustable Ohlins steering damper, clip-on bars, a billet steering plate engraved with the production number, a taller front screen for improved aerodynamics, and Desmosedici-inspired hand grips designed to improve rider control. These additions aren't just for show—they're engineered to elevate the riding experience, though whether they justify the likely premium price tag remains a topic for debate.
Speaking of price, Ducati has yet to reveal how much these special editions will cost, but they’ve confirmed availability timelines: European dealers will get them by March 2026, followed by the US in April, and Japan and Australia from July. And this is the part most people miss: while these bikes are undoubtedly collector’s items, they also raise questions about exclusivity versus accessibility in the motorcycle world.
Controversy alert: Are these bikes truly for the everyday rider, or are they more about prestige and brand loyalty? Ducati’s decision to release such high-spec, rider-specific models could polarize fans. Some will see them as a celebration of MotoGP heritage, while others might view them as over-engineered status symbols. What do you think? Are these bikes a dream come true, or a step too far into the realm of exclusivity?
For those eager to dive deeper, Alex from Crash.net—who joined the team in August 2024 after covering motorcycle news at Visordown—has the full scoop. But the real question is: would you ride one of these bikes, or would you rather admire them from afar? Let us know in the comments!
