[5] Motorcycle Consumer News tested the 2012 Panigale S at 128.1 kW (171.8 hp) and 117.1 N⋅m (86.4 lb⋅ft) torque at the rear wheel, with a wet weight 193 kg (425 lb).

The engine serves as a stressed member, making the Panigale smaller and lighter than a conventionally framed motorcycle.

[8][10] The top speed of the Panigale R was estimated by Road & Track to be 202 miles per hour (325 km/h) with the track only Termignoni exhaust system it ships with,[8] which they apparently derived from the speed at which the bike hits the rev limiter, assuming nominal gearing and wheel size.

[12] The predecessor was based on the 916 released in 1994; in both instances, net proceeds were donated to the Instituto Ayrton Senna charity.

The philosophy behind this motorcycle was the largest reduction of weight possible, achieved through the use of exotic materials such as magnesium (particularly the monocoque frame), carbon and titanium.

[13] In the September 2012 Le Mans 24-Hours Motorcycle Endurance Race, a Team Scuderia Zone Rouge Ducati 1199 Panigale won the Open category, finishing 32nd overall.

In road racing, Glen Irwin took his Panigale R to victory in 2017 at the North West 200 using the PBM Be Wiser Ducati.