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Ducati’s Superleggera series is known for firsts.
It was the 1199 Superleggera that first featured a magnesium-alloy frame, swingarm, and wheels in 2013. It was the 1299 Superleggera that was first to market with a carbon-fiber chassis in 2016. Now, it’s the latest Superleggera that’s the first to bring MotoGP-derived carbon-ceramic brake discs and carbon fiber fork stanchions to a road-homologated model.
Cue the Superleggera V4 Centenario.
The limited-edition Duc shares a lineage with the latest-generation Panigale V4 platform, but otherwise, it shares very little with the superbike line. That’s because the Superleggera’s frame, swingarm, subframe, wheels, and fairing are constructed from carbon fiber. Its Desmosedici Stradale R 1100 engine is based on the Panigale V4 R’s 998 cc V4, but a longer stroke (53.5 mm compared to 48.41 mm) results in a 1,103 cc displacement and a 228-horsepower output (claimed). Add to those power figures the Centenario’s lightweight build, and you have one spicy meatball.
The Superleggera takes lightness seriously. Super seriously, in fact. It’s right there in the name. Ducati’s claims seemingly back that up, too. The carbon front frame weighs 17% less than the Panigale V4’s aluminum unit. The swingarm’s mass is reduced by 21%. The rear monocoque weighs three fewer pounds. The wheels save 300 grams (compared to those on the Panigale V4 S Carbon). Even the subframe comes in 200 grams lighter.
The engine isn’t exempt from the fat-cutting regimen, either. Titanium components, lighter bolts, and redesigned internals result in an eight-pound weight saving (versus the Panigale V4’s dry clutch-equipped 1,103 cc V4). In all, the Superleggera V4 Centenario weighs in at 381 pounds with all fluids but fuel (368 pounds with race exhaust). Yes, it’s carbon fiber this and titanium that, and yet, the real story here is the Superleggera’s Grand Prix-developed upgrades.
MotoGP teams utilize carbon-ceramic brake discs because they provide consistent, efficient stopping power, especially at extremely high temperatures. Aside from their thermal stability, carbon brakes also save weight. As much as 450 grams less per rotor, by Ducati’s account. Pair that with Brembo’s GP4-HY monoblock calipers — plus the specially formulated brake pads slotted in them — and you have a system that brings MotoGP cachet to the streets.
The same could be said of the Öhlins NPX 25/30, a pressurized fork highlighted by its carbon fiber stanchions. Again, the theme here is weight reduction, but the advanced front end also delivers “a tangible improvement in direction changes and front-end sensitivity.” The Bologna brand is quick to communicate such attributes, even if it isn’t ready to communicate the Superleggera V4 Centenario’s price. (If you have to ask, you probably can’t afford it.)
Ducati held the 2020 Superleggera V4's MSRP close to the chest during the bike's unveiling. By the time Ari spun some laps on the highly exclusive superbike, its modest $100,000 price tag was public knowledge. It's highly likely that Ducati takes the same strategy here. However, it’s highly unlikely the Centenario starts anywhere below the six-figure mark. Much of that is due to the rare nature of the model, with Ducati restricting production to 500 units. The Bologna brand will also produce 100 units of the Superleggera V4 Centenario Tricolore, which is likely to command an even higher asking price.
Those fortunate enough to purchase either Centenario variant will receive a certificate of authenticity, a dedicated motorcycle cover, paddock stands, branded bike mats, and a special-edition helmet and jacket. Each example also comes standard with an installable racing kit, which includes an Akrapovič racing exhaust, DAVC Race Pro software, and additional carbon fiber componentry (lower fairing, open clutch cover, alternator cover protectors, etc.).
Of those 600 customers, a very fortunate 26 will be awarded access to Ducati’s MotoGP Experience, an event that allots each owner time aboard both the Superleggera and Desmosedici GP26 on the track. All 600 customers should still expect the first Centenario units to deliver in Q1 2027.
| Ducati Superleggera V4 Centenario | |
|---|---|
| Price (MSRP) | TBA |
| Engine | 1,103 cc, liquid-cooled, 16-valve, V4 |
|
Transmission, final drive |
Six-speed, chain |
| Claimed horsepower | 228 @ 14,500 rpm |
| Claimed torque | 87 foot-pounds @ 10,500 rpm |
| Frame | Carbon fiber monocoque |
| Front suspension | Öhlins 43 mm NPX 25/30 Carbon fork, adjustable for spring preload, compression, and rebound damping; 4.9 inches of travel |
| Rear suspension | Öhlins TTX36 GP LW shock, adjustable for spring preload, compression, and rebound damping; 5.1 inches of travel |
| Front brake | Dual Brembo Monobloc GP4-HY calipers, 340 mm carbon-ceramic discs with ABS |
| Rear brake | Brembo two-piston caliper, 223 mm disc with ABS |
| Rake, trail | 24.0 degrees, 3.9 inches |
| Wheelbase | 58.3 inches |
| Seat height | 33.7 inches |
| Fuel capacity | 4.5 gallons |
| Tires | Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP-V4, 120/70 ZR17 front, 200/60 ZR17 rear |
| Claimed weight | 381 pounds (no fuel) |
| Available | Q1 2027 |
| Warranty | 24 months |
| More info | ducati.com |
