All three motorcycles feature different engine configurations. The Norton uses a 72-degree V4 layout with the largest displacement at 1,200cc, while the Ducati employs its signature 90-degree V4 Desmosedici Stradale engine. The BMW takes a different approach with an inline-four layout. The Ducati produces the most power at 216hp, while the Norton makes the most torque.
Norton quotes a wet weight (without fuel) of 210kg for the base model, while the Ducati Panigale V4 weighs 191kg under the same conditions. The BMW S 1000 RR, meanwhile, has a quoted kerb weight (with fuel) of 197kg.
So while a direct comparison is tricky given the differing measurement standards, it’s fairly clear that the BMW is the lightest motorcycle here. The Ducati, despite weighing significantly less on paper, also gets the largest fuel tank at 17 litres, meaning a fully fuelled Panigale V4 would likely tip the scales at over 200kg.
The Norton, meanwhile, is likely the heaviest motorcycle of the three by a considerable margin, despite its quoted figure excluding fuel. It also gets the smallest fuel tank here, and given the performance on offer, will likely require fairly frequent fuel stops.
Norton Manx R vs rivals: Tyres, suspension and brakes
Suspension hardware varies depending on the variant
All three motorcycles run broadly similar tyre sizes, but the biggest differences lie in their braking and suspension hardware. The Norton Manx R is available in four variants – Standard, Apex, Signature, and the limited-run First Edition. The Ducati Panigale V4 is also offered in a higher-spec V4 S guise, while the BMW S 1000 RR can be optioned with the Pro and Pro M Sport packages.
The base Norton uses manually adjustable Marzocchi suspension, while the Apex, Signature, and First Edition variants get semi-active electronic suspension. Similarly, the standard Panigale V4 comes with a Showa USD fork and Sachs monoshock, whereas the V4 S upgrades to Öhlins Smart EC 3.0 electronically controlled suspension at both ends.
BMW follows a similar approach, with the optional M Package adding Dynamic Damping Control (DDC) electronic suspension to the S 1000 RR.
Norton Manx R vs rivals: Features
All three get comprehensive electronics packages
All three superbikes feature TFT displays of varying sizes, with the Norton Manx R offering the largest unit at 8 inches. Electronics packages are comprehensive across the board, with all three bikes using six-axis IMUs to manage rider aids such as traction control, wheelie control, cornering ABS, and multiple riding modes.
The Ducati Panigale V4 also features Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO) technology, which uses data from 70 sensors to continuously optimise the electronics package in real time. The Norton, meanwhile, adds features like cornering cruise control and hill-hold assist on top of the standard electronics suite.
