According to the press release I just got from Ducati, it was the new Panigale V4 as it captured over 16,000 votes, or 61.17% of the show. Yet when you consider everything else that debuted at EICMA, I’m inclined to believe that a large percentage of those voters just selected the Ducati as the hometown favorite. What do you say?
From certain angles (like up above), the V4 looks great. It even looks downright sinister when it’s dark and the LED headlights are on. But from a profile, the tank looks bulbous and goofy to me:
The V4 with Pierfrancesco Caliari (EICMA General Director), Federico Aliverti (“Motociclismo” Director) and Julien Clement (Senior Designer at Ducati Design Center and Panigale V4 Designer). Photo from Ducati.
EICMA has held a popular vote thirteen times – this is the ninth time Ducati has earned it (and the fifth straight). Last year the award went to the Ducati SuperSport.
Yes, styling is subjective. Still, I think there were several other bikes that should have come home with the title this year:
Honda CB1000R:
Husky Vitpilen 701:
Honda CB4 Interceptor:
Admittedly, I have a preference for bikes that show off a bit of motor. But I thought the 959 Panigale Corse looked better than the new V4, even with the weird belly pan styling:
Lastly – I just have to make a special mention of the Moto Guzzi V85 Concept. I love it but I realize it’s not going to be winning a typical motorcycle beauty contest:
My favorite source for EICMA coverage this year was at Asphalt and Rubber – click here for a list of everything that debuted. Take a look and then tell me what you think the most beautiful bike was and why I’m wrong!
Featured photo from Ducati