This New V4 Superbike Might Be Ducati And Aprilia’s Kryptonite

With Japanese giants pausing innovation in the superbike segment, Ducati and Aprilia are simply in a league of their own. A league that comprises two over-1,000cc V4 engines, both with well over 210 horsepower and no shortage of top-shelf components. Now, however, it appears there’s a new challenger coming to worry these two Italian behemoths. We’re talking about Norton’s upcoming V4 superbike that’s just been spotted for the first time ever. Let’s dive in.

The Upcoming Norton V4 Superbike Borrows Design Cues From An Iconic Ducati

One look at the spy shots, and you’ll get a whiff of nostalgia. Why? Because the prototype has a fascia reminiscent of the Ducati 1198 and 848. You get two similarly shaped LED lights, housed in aggressive cowls. This gives it a much angrier-looking face compared to the uber-curvy V4 SV that exists right now. There are no side panels on the test mule, so we can’t comment on that here.

We do get a good look at the distinct multi-element tail lamp. It looks exactly like the teaser image shared by Norton on social media, which confirms this is indeed an upcoming superbike by the UK brand. We also dig that Norton is sticking to its roots by keeping likable elements such as the OZ Racing wheels, put on full display at the rear due to the single-sided swingarm.

A New Chassis And Top-Shelf Underpinnings Elevate The Package

Like the design, there are big changes in the underpinnings department. And for good reason, as the V4 SV was already on the backfoot when it debuted in 2022. A close look at the test mule reveals a new chassis, which appears to have cast aluminum instead of tubular sections. This is topped with electronic suspension (USD forks and monoshock), possibly from Ohlins. That, in addition to the new Brembo Hypure front calipers, makes this right on par with the big names from Italy like the Panigale V4 S and RSV4 1100 Factory.

Key Changes

• New cast aluminum chassis
• Brembo Hypure calipers
• Electronic suspension
• Pirelli tires

But A Familiar V4 Engine Sits Inside The Chassis

The chassis might have big updates, but it seems not much has changed with the engine it houses. That’s because all the exposed parts seem reminiscent of Norton’s current 1,200cc V4 engine. The only notable change seems to be the new underbelly exhaust in place of the side-mounted unit. For reference, the current V4 SV produces 185 horsepower and 92 pound-feet. While the former is way down on its rivals, the latter is right on par.

Norton V4 SV Engine Specs

Norton’s New Superbike Will Break Cover At The 2025 EICMA

If you like what you see (we certainly do), then you’ll be glad to know Norton has already set a date for this big reveal. Its new V4 superbike will make its public debut on November 4, 2025 (the first day of EICMA). Once out, we already know it will make its way to North America soon after, as revealed by our sources inside TVS Motors. Expect it to cost a pretty penny—yes, more than the already pricey Panigale and RSV4.