Ducati Recalls Panigale & Streetfighter V4 Again Over Rear Brake Failure Risk

Second recall issued for 2025-2026 models due to potential brake hose damage from exhaust heat

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:53am

An abstract, colorful image depicting a Ducati Panigale V4 motorcycle in motion, with blurred lines and streaks of vibrant hues representing the bike's speed and power.The Ducati Panigale V4's sleek lines and powerful performance are captured in a blur of motion, underscoring the brand's commitment to innovation and the thrill of the ride, even as it grapples with a critical safety recall.Kansas City Today

Ducati is issuing a second recall for its 2025-2026 Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4 models due to a serious safety issue involving potential rear brake failure. The problem lies in the brake hose connecting the rear brake caliper to the ABS control unit, which can be damaged by excessive heat from the exhaust system, leading to sudden loss of rear braking ability. This recall comes after an initial fix in 2025 failed to fully resolve the issue, raising concerns about rider safety.

Why it matters

Ducati's high-performance motorcycles are popular among enthusiasts, but this recurring brake issue poses a significant safety risk that the company must urgently address. The inability to reliably stop a powerful superbike at high speeds could have devastating consequences, making this recall a critical matter for Ducati to resolve to maintain customer trust and rider safety.

The details

The problem was first reported in October 2024, leading Ducati to initiate a recall in January 2025 to install a new thermal shield to protect the ABS brake hose. However, an additional failure report in February 2025 on a model with the new shield installed prompted further investigation. Ducati determined that the combination of exhaust heat and high pressure in the hose when the rear brake is applied was the root cause. As a result, the company has designed an even larger heat shield to better combat this issue.

  • In October 2024, Ducati received the first report of a rear brake malfunction.
  • In January 2025, Ducati initiated a recall to install a new thermal shield to protect the ABS brake hose.
  • In February 2025, another report of brake failure surfaced on a model with the new shield installed.
  • Ducati is now notifying dealers and will contact owners in March 2026 to install the updated, larger thermal shielding.
  • Motorcycles produced after September 2025 already have the improved shielding.

The players

Ducati

An Italian motorcycle manufacturer known for its high-performance superbikes, including the Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4 models affected by this recall.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure the safety of our riders is the top priority, and we are taking decisive action to address this issue once and for all.”

— Claudio Domenicali, CEO, Ducati

What’s next

Ducati is notifying dealers and will contact owners in March 2026 to install the updated, larger thermal shielding to protect the rear brake hose from exhaust heat damage.

The takeaway

This ongoing recall saga highlights the importance of proactive safety measures and the need for manufacturers to thoroughly address root causes of potential defects, especially on high-performance vehicles where rider safety is paramount. Ducati's efforts to resolve this issue demonstrate their commitment to customer safety, but the recurrence of the problem raises questions about the initial recall's effectiveness.