Feature article

Best Ducati Motorcycles Available in NZ: Buying Guide

Whether you're chasing the thrills of a Panigale or the everyday fun of a Scrambler, we've got you covered.

Kyle Cassidy
Last updated: 15 July 2025 | 5 min read

Looking to fulfill that dream of owning a Ducati? From high-performance sportbikes to versatile adventure tourers and stylish urban commuters, Ducati offers something for every kind of rider. Here we list the best Ducati motorcycles currently available in NZ, highlighting key models, specs, and who they’re best suited for. Whether you're chasing the thrills of a Panigale or the everyday fun of a Scrambler, we've got you covered. With Italian design, cutting-edge tech and unmistakable character, Ducati bikes continue to set benchmarks in style and performance.

Wild Child - XDiavel

The Ducati XDiavel returns for 2025 with a bold redesign, updated tech and now V4 power. It adopts the 1158cc Granturismo V4 engine from the Diavel, producing 168bhp (125kW) and 128Nm of torque. Unlike Ducati’s Panigale V4, this engine uses conventional valve springs and requires less frequent maintenance with valve checks every 60,000km and oil changes at 15,000km.

The new XDiavel V4 also features a monocoque chassis, fully adjustable 50mm forks, a rear monoshock, and Brembo Stylema brakes on 330mm discs. It’s lighter than the outgoing 1260 model by 6kg (229kg dry). Styling updates include a fresh headlight, sleeker aluminium intake shrouds, and refined bodywork. Available in Black Lava or Burning Red, it retains forward controls with optional mid-set pegs for sportier riders, plus a redesigned seat for better two-up comfort.

Advanced electronics are headlined by a 6.9-inch TFT screen with Bluetooth, up/down quickshifter, IMU-assisted cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, launch control, and cruise control. Four ride modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, and Wet) adapt performance to conditions. A rear-cylinder deactivation system reduces heat in stop-go traffic, and Ducati says the bike can hit 0–100km/h in under 3 seconds thanks to Power Launch and a 240-section rear tyre.

The do-it-all Ducati - Multistrada V2

Ducati’s 2025 Multistrada V2 is the third model to feature the brand’s new lightweight 890cc V-twin engine, following the Panigale V2 and Streetfighter V2. This engine, producing 84kW and 90Nm, is paired with variable valve timing for stronger low- to mid-range torque, delivering 70 per cent of peak torque from 3500rpm and maintaining over 75 per cent of that up to 11,000rpm. While peak torque is slightly down compared to the previous model, overall rideability is expected to improve thanks to the broader spread and reduced weight.

The new Multistrada V2 is 18kg lighter than before, making it the lightest in its class. The standard V2 weighs in at 199kg, while the higher-spec V2 S tips the scales at just 202kg. Both models ride on cast aluminium wheels with Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tyres, and use a monocoque frame with the engine as a stressed member.

Tech features include a five-inch TFT dash with multiple display styles, five riding modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Enduro, Wet), and rider aids like cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, and engine brake control. The V2 S adds Ducati’s Skyhook semi-active suspension with a minimum preload function for improved low-speed comfort. It comes in Ducati Red, with Storm Green exclusive to the V2 S.

One for track days - Panigale V2

Ducati latest twin-cylinder sportbike, the 2025 Panigale V2, has a focus on reduced weight, improved road usability, and track capability. Replacing the Panigale 959 and SuperSport 950 models, the new Panigale V2 features a freshly developed 890cc 90-degree V-twin engine and a lighter 4kg monocoque frame. Overall, the bike sheds 15kg compared to its predecessor, aiming to deliver more accessible performance.

Despite a drop in peak power from 110kW in the old Superquadro engine to 89kW, the new V2 offers strong low-end torque, with 70 per cent available from 3000rpm and 80 per cent above 3500rpm, thanks to variable valve timing. Peak torque is rated at 94Nm, making the bike more rideable across a broader rev range and compliant with Euro5+ emissions standards.

The bike sports updated styling inspired by the Panigale V4, including a sleeker LED headlight setup, redesigned fuel tank, and dual under-seat exhausts. Ergonomics have been revised for improved comfort and reduced wrist strain. The V2 S variant adds Öhlins suspension and a lithium battery, while the base V2 uses fully adjustable Marzocchi forks and a KYB shock. With better heat management and refined dynamics, Ducati calls this its most approachable and enjoyable sportbike yet.

Best for the street - Ducati Streetfighter V2

Ducati’s new Streetfighter V2 is its lightest supernaked yet, blending road and track performance in a compact, aggressive package. Powered by the same 890cc VVT-equipped V-twin engine as the new Panigale V2, it delivers 89kW in standard form and up to 94kW with an optional racing exhaust, which also sheds 4.5kg. The bike weighs just 175kg (wet, minus fuel), nearly 18kg less than its predecessor, thanks to a new lightweight monocoque frame and compact engine.

The Streetfighter V2 inherits much from the Panigale V2, including its chassis, tank, seat, tail unit, and lightweight alloy wheels, but swaps in high, wide handlebars and ditches the fairings for a true streetfighter aesthetic. Its design concentrates visual mass toward the front, enhancing its aggressive, compact stance. A Sachs steering damper and a 30mm longer swingarm boost high-speed stability.

Fully adjustable suspension, Brembo M50 brakes, and Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres ensure performance on both road and track. Rider aids include a six-axis IMU, cornering ABS, traction and wheelie control, engine brake control, and Ducati Quick Shift 2.0. A new 5-inch TFT display offers three customisable views. Launch control and a pit limiter are standard on S versions. 

The sensible Ducati - Scrambler

Ducati’s second-generation Scrambler introduces updated styling, technology, and performance. While retaining its fun, accessible, and everyday-friendly ethos, the new Scrambler is 4kg lighter, thanks to a revised chassis and swingarm. The air-cooled 73hp Desmodue V-twin engine remains, but gains new clutch and alternator covers, updated exhaust headers, and improved electronics.

Key enhancements include ride-by-wire throttle, offering two riding modes (Road and Wet), cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, and an optional up/down quickshifter (standard on Full Throttle). A 4.3-inch colour TFT display and optional Ducati Multimedia System further modernise the user interface.

Three initial models include the Icon, Full Throttle, and Nightshift. The Icon gets updated ergonomics, including revised handlebars and a tapered seat, plus three base colours and six optional hues. Full Throttle is the sportiest, featuring a Termignoni silencer, blacked-out finishes, number plates, LED indicators, and standard quickshifter. Nightshift channels a classic Café Racer vibe with a stitched saddle, bar-end mirrors, black spoked wheels, and vintage-style finishes.

Styling tweaks include new full-LED lighting, a reshaped tank with interchangeable covers, and redesigned wheels (18” front, 17” rear). 

Author

Kyle Cassidy
Kyle Cassidy
Editor NZ Autocar magazine - autocar.co.nz

Kyle has been reviewing cars since starting at NZ Autocar magazine in 2003 and has been editor since 2009. In that time he’s become an expert on what makes for a good vehicle while also gaining insights into the local automotive industry.