Ducati pulled the wraps off its top-of-the-line racer-replica, the $29,995 1199 Panigale R, today in Austin, Texas, at the fabulous new Circuit of The Americas. Ducati MotoGP riders Nicky Hayden and Ben Spies were on hand to ride the production bikes for photos prior to the world press launch.
Senior Editor Blake Conner is representing Cycle World at the event. Here are his initial impressions from this morning: "I just completed two sessions at Circuit of The Americas on the Ducati Panigale R," he said. "Without a doubt, this is the best racetrack in America! The motorcycle is awesome, too. I can't think of a better production sportbike that I've ridden on a track."
Blake will post a First Ride of the 1199 Panigale R later this week. In the meantime, enjoy the gallery.