Tarzy swoops on Buriram MotoGP track to tame Ducati’s performance flagship
Let’s talk about the big red elephant in the room. Earlier in April, I had a career – and life – highlight that will be hard to top. Ducati is a staple in the motorcycle world. I first fell in love with the red beast when my dad showed me videos of Anthony Gobert riding the Vance & Hines Ducati in AMA Superbike. That’s when I knew I wanted to be Number 95 and ride a red bike just like him. The Go Show legend!
Fast forward to the present – stepping off a plane in Thailand with my helmet as my carry-on, I was about to ride one of the most serious bikes on the planet at one of the fastest MotoGP tracks in the world.
Arriving at Chang International Circuit for the Ducati Riding Experience (DRE), I was beyond thrilled to finally get a taste of the Ducati Panigale V4 S. This machine is a true masterpiece, featuring a 1103cc V4 engine that produces 158.9kW (216hp) and rockets from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.1 seconds. With Ducati’s advanced features like DTC (Ducati Traction Control), DQS (Ducati Quick Shift), and Öhlins suspension, it’s built for speed, precision and pure racing spirit.
THE NIGHT BEFORE
When we arrived at the hotel, a press event and dinner were already underway. I went up to my room – with a view of the track, no less – and started getting ready. As I unpacked, I noticed a stand for my leathers and helmet in the room. How cool is that?
Downstairs, the new Ducati was on display, surrounded by admirers. Little did I know it rode just as smooth as it looked.
The press event featured a detailed presentation about the latest updates to the Panigale V4 S. Alessandro Valia, Ducati’s official test rider, was the keynote speaker. He talked us through the model’s new aerodynamic design with four per cent less drag, the reworked 17L fuel tank designed to enhance rider positioning and grip, and, of course, the controversial switch to a double-sided swingarm. This change increases lateral stiffness by 37 per cent, resulting in sharper, more responsive steering. I couldn’t wait to put all of that to the test the next day.
RACE DAY: RIDER BRIEFING & GEAR UP
Waking up at a famous racetrack halfway around the world, knowing a Ducati Panigale V4 S was waiting for me, was surreal. The team transported us to the track after a buffet breakfast at the hotel and suddenly I was standing in pitlane – familiar territory, but this time in a very unfamiliar (and exciting) country.
First up: sign-on. Riders from around the world introduced themselves, sharing their nerves and excitement. We were divided into classes – Beginner, Intermediate, Evo and Masterclass – received our armbands, and took care of the formalities.
Then it was time to gear up. Thankfully, the changeroom was air-conditioned (bless). I’d packed my leathers into Mum’s suitcase since my gear bag was still in Queensland from racing. As I pulled them out, they already felt heavier from the humidity.
The energy was electric. I also got to meet the other women riding that day – three of us in total: one from Japan, one from Malaysia and me, the Aussie!
The rider briefing was fantastic. The Ducati team didn’t just recite specs – they shared their passion. The room buzzed with anticipation. We were introduced to our coaches, including Michele Pirro, the Ducati MotoGP test rider, and TJ Alberto, a four-time Philippines Superbike champion, just two of the many coaches.
Some coaches were already out tearing up the track, and it was hard not to press our faces to the glass and watch. Oh, and the actual bikes ridden by Marc Marquez and Pecco Bagnaia for a recent media event – rear tyres smoked and all – were on display and available for purchase by DRE riders. Pretty cool perk!
THE ON-TRACK EXPERIENCE
Game time. Our pitlane shed was buzzing. A simulator bike stood in the middle for us to practice body position, while tables surrounded the room with TV screens, whiteboards with the track layout, and chairs for each rider group.
Chang International Circuit is a stunning 4.6km track that has hosted some of the most entertaining MotoGPs in recent history. It’s known for being one of the fastest circuits in the world, as well as being super popular from a fan experience perspective. It features 12 turns, including long straights and tight corners that challenge both rider and machine. The smooth, wide tarmac is perfect for pushing limits, and the elevation changes certainly kept us on our toes. It’s really wide and really fast… something I was about to find out.
“Masterclass,” I heard over the loudspeaker – my turn! We lined up next to a row of gleaming Ducatis, each one fitted with fresh tyres. I chose the one right on the end.
One rule: no overtaking within your group. Tricky!
At first, I struggled with the bike’s height as I am only 160cm, but the reach to the ‘bars wasn’t as bad as I’d expected. I flipped the sidestand up, fired her up and clicked down into first gear – something I’d need to get used to as over the last four years all my bikes have been race pattern, where first gear is up for racing. Head down, push down; head up, click up!
Shooting out of pitlane, I was instantly on the long straight. I’d studied the layout and watched heaps of onboard videos, so I slipped into a rhythm quickly. I thought I’d need time to adapt my riding style, but surprisingly I settled in fast. The Ducati is just soooo confidence inspiring, especially with brand new Pirelli tyres fitted.
The Panigale V4 S felt compact and incredibly responsive. When I twisted the throttle for the first time… wow. It launched. That raw power left me grinning from ear to ear. It was blisteringly fast yet refined and smooth, the quickshifter taking care of business; my neck stretching in every gear, the corners all coming up quickly.
We started the day in Road mode, but for the final few sessions we switched to Race mode. The biggest difference I noticed was how much easier it was to trail-brake and turn in under heavy braking, thanks to firmer suspension travel.
Then came a surreal moment – Michele Pirro pointed at me and said, “You follow me. We ride together.” “Okay!” I blurted out, stunned. Off we went. I was even more stoked knowing it was all being filmed (which you can now see on YouTube!).
The Ducati hospitality was absolutely top tier. The moment we pulled in from each session, the team greeted us with chilled water, cold towels and big smiles. Lunch was much needed and appreciated. I had my usual chicken and rice combo that was supplied at the buffet, but I also wanted to soak in the whole experience, trying a Thai dessert called Can Enjo (I’ll stick to Tim Tams, I think). I did feel a little like Marquez myself experiencing these moments! Ducati really did make us all feel very special.
As the day wore on, I gained confidence. When I opened the throttle full gas on the straight and held it pinned, we hit 300km/h. The V4 was rock-solid – even at that speed.
My favourite corner? Turn 1 – third gear, knee down, barrelling toward that straight. Pure bliss. Must be something about me and first turns; at almost every race meet, Turn 1 is my favourite to barrel through with the pack (fun fact!).
One of the biggest highlights? Riding alongside Michele Pirro. Watching his precision through the corners was like watching art in motion. After each session, we debriefed with him. I even snuck in a cheeky question during an impromptu video interview: “How do you think I went today?” He smiled and complimented my riding style. That moment meant the world.
DINNER, STUNTS & GOODBYES
Even after a full day of riding, the adrenaline hadn’t worn off. But the day wasn’t over. We were treated to dinner, drinks and an incredible stunt show. One of the coaches, Emilio, took to the track while everyone else was upstairs eating. Wheelies, stoppies, burnouts – he made it all look easy. We gathered for a group photo on the grid, united by our love for motorbikes – and especially for Ducati.
Later that evening, we received certificates signed by our coaches. Mine’s now framed and proudly displayed among my trophies at Dad’s shop.
REFLECTION
Looking back, I learned so much. It wasn’t just about going faster. It was about understanding the harmony between power and control – and how Ducati’s engineering brings that to life in a way that’s both intuitive and exhilarating.
Most of all, I had an absolute blast. There’s nothing quite like riding a machine like the Panigale V4 S on a world-class track, surrounded by passionate people who share the same love for the sport. It was also nice to be able to chill and enjoy the experience and not have to worry about a stopwatch timing me – just simply to have fun and take it all in.
A massive thank you to Ducati Australia/New Zealand and Australian Motorcycle News for this unforgettable riding opportunity. It’s one I’ll cherish forever.
WANNA DO IT?
A Ducati Riding Experience (DRE) is a premium motorcycle training program designed for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced motorcyclists. Held in various scenic and professional locations worldwide, DRE courses offer expert instruction from certified Ducati riders across several formats, including track riding, off-road and road safety. Each session covers safety, control and performance using Ducati’s latest models. Whether you’re refining technique or experiencing Ducatis for the first time, DREs aim to provide a thrilling, educational and unforgettable way to elevate your riding experience. For more information, check out www.ducati.com/ww/en/experience/ducati-riding-experience/riding-courses
