Superleggera V4 Centenario: Ducati unveils its most extreme road-legal motorcycle ever

• 500 numbered masterpieces, representing the pinnacle of Ducati’s technological expertise, created to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer
• The Ducati Superleggera V4 Centenario is the first road legal bike in the world to feature a braking system with carbon-ceramic discs and a fork with carbon fibre sleeves
• A carbon-fibre frame, swingarm and bodywork, combined with meticulous attention to every detail, result in a wet weight without fuel of 173 kg, which drops to 167 kg when fitted with the racing kit supplied as standard
• The Desmosedici Stradale R 1100 engine, featuring hand-tuned desmodromic valve timing, delivers 228 hp in this model, rising to 247 hp in track configuration, resulting in an unprecedented power-to-weight ratio of 1.48 hp/kg*
• The livery of the Superleggera V4 Centenario is based on the new Rosso Centenario colour, created to mark this significant anniversary and which has inspired the official 2026 MotoGP and SBK liveries

BORGO PANIGALE – (Bologna, Italy) – March 27, 2026 – (Motor Sports NewsWire) – Since its birth, Ducati has been working with one conviction: limits are not an obstacle, but a starting point. In this century of history, the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer has created motorcycles capable of surpassing and redefining expectations, the result of passion, vision, engineering rigour and determination.

And when the motorcycle is a Superleggera, the mission is always the same: to create the motorcycle of dreams, without limits and without compromise. Not a mere exercise in style, nor a prototype, but the desire to transform freedom into engineering and performance. In its centenary year, which brings together a century of moments that have marked the history of the Borgo Panigale manufacturer, Ducati presents the most extreme road bike ever developed: the new Superleggera V4 Centenario.

Superleggera bikes are created when Ducati engineers are given total freedom. No constraints. No compromises. Just the goal of creating the road-legal super sports bike that all enthusiasts dream of. Every Superleggera pushes the technological boundaries of the motorcycle world. It brings solutions never before seen on a production bike. It opens up new avenues. It changes the rules.

The Superleggera V4 Centenario is born, in a limited edition of just 500 numbered pieces, based on the seventh generation of Ducati’s Superbike, features a fully carbon-fibre chassis, and marks the debut of the first carbon-ceramic braking system and a fork with carbon-fibre stanchions ever fitted to a road-legal motorcycle. It is the first to use a fork with carbon fibre sleeves and is also the first capable of 228 horsepower, which become 247 with the racing exhaust*. The wet weight without fuel is just 173 kg, dropping to 167 kg when fitted with the racing kit supplied as standard. Every fibre of its carbon, every titanium screw, every tiny choice is aimed at the pursuit of perfection. The closest thing to the impossible we have ever dared to create.

Ducati is the only company in the world that has produced motorcycles like this, to date. Limited edition bikes, highly sought after by connoisseurs around the world. True unicorns of motorcycling, created for those who understand that owning a Superleggera means much more than owning a motorcycle. This happened in 2013, with the first 1199 Superleggera, the first motorcycle with a magnesium alloy frame, swingarm and wheels. The limits were pushed again with the 2016 1299 Superleggera, the first to introduce a complete carbon fibre chassis. The bar was raised even further with the 2020 Panigale V4 Superleggera, the motorcycle that took aerodynamics to the extreme, and now, with the Superleggera V4 Centenario, Ducati is rewriting the rules of what is possible on a production motorcycle.

In addition to the 500 Superleggera V4 Centenario bikes, there are 100 Superleggera V4 Centenario Tricolore bikes, to further mark this historic milestone for the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer. The livery creates a link between tradition, the present and the future, combining the vision of new technologies with the colours of tradition. The livery celebrates the legacy of the 750 F1 Endurance Racing, the last “classic” two-valve racing model and one of the most iconic and rare Ducatis of the 1980s. The Tricolore colours that once dominated the racetracks are revisited in a revamped design that combines retro charm and modernity. The result is a highly evocative livery, created for those who love the authentic spirit of past glories without sacrificing today’s style and technology.

The Superleggera V4 Centenario offers the chance to make an even more incredible dream come true. Twenty-six of its owners will be given access to the MotoGP Experience**: a day on the track, guided by Ducati instructors, to discover the Superleggera’s performance, culminating in a breathtaking finale aboard the DesmosediciGP26. The MotoGP Experience will take place on 6 and 7 July, immediately following World Ducati Week 2026.

MotoGP-derived brakes and suspension

The Superleggera V4 Centenario is the world’s first road bike equipped with carbon-ceramic brake discs approved for road use. The new Brembo discs are built around a core made of C/SiC, a carbon fibre-reinforced ceramic compound. This technology offers a unique combination of lightness, rigidity and thermal stability. The disc maintains its efficiency even at very high temperatures, ensuring consistent braking even during extreme use, without the added weight of larger diameter and thicker metal discs.

Compared to a steel disc, the new carbon-ceramic discs offer the same level of power, but with a weight reduction of 450 grams per disc and a 40% lower moment of inertia. This reduction in inertia improves the agility of the bike, making corner entry even more natural and precise. Compared to the standard 330 mm Panigale V4 discs, the carbon-ceramic discs have the same weight but even lower inertia, thanks to a more favourable mass distribution, and, of course, offer far superior resistance to extreme track use.

The system also includes new Brembo GP4-HY monoblock boosted calipers machined from solid aluminium, with integrated cooling fins and differentiated 30 and 34 mm pistons. The calipers use an anti-drag system that completely releases the disc when the rider releases the lever, eliminating residual torque and thus improving smoothness when entering corners. The pads are specially developed to work with the carbon-ceramic surface.

The suspension also sets a new world first: the Superleggera V4 Centenario is the first road bike equipped with the pressurised Öhlins NPX 25/30 Carbon fork with carbon fibre sleeves made using unidirectional layers to achieve maximum weight savings compared to conventional production. The weight saving compared to the Panigale V4 R is 8%, rising to 10% compared to the standard Panigale V4, with a tangible improvement in direction changes and front-end sensitivity.

The fork, which is mechanical in order to minimise weight, keeps the cartridge pressurised, reducing cavitation and providing more consistent support during braking and corner entry.

At the rear, the Öhlins TTX36 GP LW shock absorber is equipped with a special steel spring for maximum lightness and MotoGP-derived valves that improve the ability to cope with small bumps and allow tool-free hydraulic adjustment. The suspension linkages are made of titanium, again for maximum lightness. A combination that brings MotoGP suspension to enthusiasts.

Carbon fibre chassis

In the Superleggera V4 Centenario, the relentless pursuit of lightness and precision typical of high-end craftsmanship reaches one of its highest points in Ducati’s history. The entire chassis is made of carbon fibre: the frame, swingarm, subframes and wheels are developed using the same technologies used in MotoGP and Formula 1. A radical, uncompromising approach that brings prototype solutions to the road.

The carbon front frame weighs 17% less than the aluminium one on the Panigale V4, offering calibrated stiffness to improve cornering grip and the natural tendency to close the line. The swingarm is manufactured using a sacrificial mandrel process that allows for a very light monolithic structure. Compared to the aluminium component, it is 21% lighter, while maintaining equivalent lateral and torsional stiffness values to ensure maximum grip out of corners.

Every single element of the chassis has been designed for maximum lightness, with absolute determination. The five-spoke wheels are almost 300 grams lighter than those of the Panigale V4 S Carbon, the front subframe weighs 200 grams less and the rear monocoque reduces weight by 1.4 kg. The result is a weight of only 173 kg in road configuration, which drops to 167 kg when fitted with the racing kit supplied as standard.

To ensure the highest structural quality, every single carbon fibre component in each Superleggera is inspected using three different non-destructive testing methods: Transient Active Thermography, Phased Array Ultrasonics and Computed Axial Tomography. This is the same process used in the aerospace industry, and one that Ducati has employed on all Superleggera models since the 1299.

Desmosedici Stradale R 1100 Engine

The Superleggera V4 Centenario introduces a new engine: the Desmosedici Stradale R 1100, developed specifically for this project to create the most sophisticated Superleggera ever made. The displacement increases from 998 to 1,103 cc thanks to the stroke lengthening from 48.41 mm to 53.5 mm. This modification allows for more torque and more thrust at intermediate revs, without penalising acceleration. In road Euro 5+ configuration, the engine delivers 228 hp, which becomes 247 hp when using the Akrapovič racing exhaust and Ducati Corse Performance oil*. A threshold never before reached by a production motorcycle.

The engine is 3.6 kg lighter than the 1,103 cc unit of the Panigale V4 with dry clutch. The reduction is due to the use of titanium, lighter screws and redesigned internal components to reduce rotating masses. The two-ring pistons (one ring and one scraper) use “box-in-box” technology and feature an oversized piston pin to handle the increase in power.

The cylinder heads retain the same configuration as the 998 cc Desmosedici Stradale R engine, with 34 mm titanium intake valves and 27.5 mm steel exhaust valves. All sixteen valves use titanium semi-cones, a solution typical of competition engines. The timing of the Desmodromic system is manually set and certified by a plate signed by the technician who performs the check. Craftsmanship excellence is applied to cutting-edge technology.

The crankshaft has been lightened by replacing the steel counterweights with tungsten inserts, much denser than steel. This allows the same balancing effect to be achieved using smaller, more compact inserts, particularly when positioned in the outermost areas, i.e. at high radius, where their contribution is greatest. The result is faster revving and more immediate throttle response, while reducing stress on the bearings and mechanical components and maintaining the strength necessary to withstand the level of power achieved.

The engine breathes through oval throttle bodies measuring 56 mm, larger than the 52 mm of the Desmosedici Stradale. The trumpets are fixed to reduce weight and optimised with different lengths (20 mm on the left, 10 mm on the right) to improve flow. The upper injectors have improved atomisation thanks to the tip that brings the spray closer to the duct. The exhaust system uses titanium manifolds with an increased diameter of 41.7 mm and an approved Akrapovič silencer. The intake and exhaust ports are polished, just like on the finest racing engines.

The transmission relies on the Ducati Racing Gearbox, with neutral positioned under first gear instead of between first and second. This solution, thanks to the Ducati Neutral Lock (DNL) system, eliminates the possibility of accidentally engaging neutral and finding yourself without engine brake in the final and most delicate phase of braking, when entering corners in first gear. Furthermore, the absence of neutral between first and second gear makes shifting between these two gears faster, smoother and more repeatable than with a traditional gearbox configuration.

The chain is a DID ERV7, the same used by Superbike Factory teams, which on the Superleggera V4 Centenario works on an Ergal sprocket. This choice allows for a reduction of 0.69 kg compared to the Panigale V4 S components.

Beauty designed by the wind

On the Superleggera V4 Centenario, aesthetics and aerodynamics merge to become one. The highly efficient wings and Corner Sidepods, designed to generate downforce at high lean angles, are derived directly from the Panigale V4 R Superbike. Introduced by Ducati in MotoGP in 2021, the Corner Sidepods solution generates a ‘ground effect’ in the middle of the corner, ensuring a higher level of grip for the tyres and thus allowing higher speeds and therefore lower lap times.

The fairing of the Superleggera V4 Centenario is made entirely of carbon fibre, left partially exposed to highlight the purity of the material. Of course, to minimise weight, the Superleggera is enhanced with many other carbon fibre components: mudguards, tank cover, rad-duct, sprocket cover, heel guards, steering splash guards, seat base, intake duct, licence plate holder and rear bank cover.

The radiator cap, footrest plates, accessory fuel tank cap and, of course, the upper and lower steering plates are made of billet aluminium. The former is further enhanced by the lasered model number (XXX/500). The same number appears in the dedicated dashboard animation and on the titanium insert of the ignition key, reminding you of the sophistication of a limited series every time you look at it.

The GP26 Rosso Centenario livery is based on a combination of Ducati’s iconic white stripes and the new matt Rosso Centenario red. A dark red, like that of its origins: from the red of the 1949 Ducati 60, the first complete motorcycle that marked Ducati’s entry among motorcycle manufacturers, to that of the 1955 Gran Sport ‘Marianna’, the first Ducati designed for racing, signed by engineer Fabio Taglioni. It was the GP26 livery of the Superleggera V4 Centenario that inspired that of the official Desmosedici bikes of the Lenovo team.

MotoGP-derived Electronics

The electronics of the Superleggera V4 Centenario represent the pinnacle of excellence for road-approved motorcycles. The control suite is derived from that of the Panigale V4 R, recalibrated and enriched with new, latest-generation DVO strategies. The aim is to offer even more control and allow even non-professionals to experience the riding techniques of MotoGP riders.

Ducati Traction Control (DTC) DVO, Wheelie Control (DWC) DVO, Slide Control (DSC) and Ducati Power Launch (DPL) DVO offer more precise management thanks to new algorithms. Cornering ABS now includes, in addition to RaceBrake Control and Road eCBS strategies, the new Engine Brake Control DVO, which introduces the Dynamic Engine Brake (DEB) function.

The latter automatically adjusts the contribution of the engine brake by also using the rear brake, adjusting them to maximise the available grip based on the load on the rear wheel. In addition, DEB improves braking performance during corner entry by activating the rear brake even when the front brake is released, just as professional riders do. This allows even less experienced riders to take tighter lines, improving their confidence when riding.

The collectors’ box of the Superleggera V4 Centenario

The Superleggera V4 Centenario is delivered in an exclusive, customised wooden case. Each motorcycle comes with a certificate of authenticity, stored in a special box, a dedicated motorcycle cover, as well as a mat and front and rear paddock stands, designed to enhance its presence.

The special equipment, that includes the racing kit for racetrack use, further confirms the uniqueness of the Superleggera V4 Centenario. Each model is equipped with the Akrapovič racing exhaust with DAVC Race Pro software and dedicated lower fairing, open clutch cover and swingarm and alternator cover protectors, all made of carbon fibre.

The case also contains a kit for removing the headlights, side stand, license plate holder and direction indicators to complete the track configuration, a racing aluminium fuel cap machined from solid, a brake lever guard, a charge maintainer and a neoprene racing seat.

The uniqueness of the Superleggera V4 Centenario is further enhanced by the opportunity, available exclusively to its owners, to complete their look with a limited-edition helmet, leather jacket and suit, featuring a colour scheme that echoes the GP26 Rosso Centenario livery.

#DucatiWorldPremiere2027 #Ducati2027 #Superleggera 

* Due to ongoing homologation, the specifications may be subject to change

** The MotoGP Experience is not included in the price of the bike

Superleggera Centenario 

• • Desmosedici Stradale R 1100 engine, 1103 cc
  • Titanium intake valves
  • Hand-adjusted desmodromic valve train with nameplate and fitter’s signature
  • Lightweight crankshaft with tungsten inserts
  • Lightweight two-ring pistons with 18 mm piston pin
  • Titanium connecting rods
  • Titanium engine bolts
  • Maximum Power of 228 hp @ 14,500 rpm (247 hp @ 14,750 rpm with racing exhaust)
  • Maximum Torque of 117.6 Nm @ 10,500 rpm (126.3 @ 12,500 with racing exhaust)
  • Wet weight without fuel: 173 kg (167 kg with racing exhaust)
  • Ducati Racing Gearbox with Ducati Neutral Lock
  • STM Revo clutch
  • Carbon fibre front frame
  • Carbon fibre rear frame
  • Carbon fibre double-sided swingarm
  • Öhlins NPX25/30 Carbon pressurised fork with carbon fibre outer tubes and billet fork bottoms
  • Öhlins TTX36 GP LW shock absorber with lightweight special steel spring
  • Dedicated carbon fibre wheels
  • Brembo braking system with Hyction 340 mm carbon-ceramic discs and GP4-HY billet monoblock calipers
  • Latest-generation electronics package with 6D IMU: four-level cornering ABS; Ducati Traction Control (DTC) DVO; Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) DVO; Ducati Slide Control; Ducati Power Launch (DPL) DVO; Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0; Engine Brake Control (EBC) DVO with Dynamic Engine Brake (DEB) strategy.
  • Akrapovic racing exhaust with DAVC software and dedicated calibration ***
  • Dedicated lower fairing ***
  • Open carbon fibre clutch cover ***
  • Swingarm protectors
  • Alternator cover protector
  • Headlight, side stand, number plate holder and indicators removal kit ***
  • Machined aluminium racing fuel cap ***
  • Brake lever guard
  • Battery charger
  • Neoprene racing seat
  • Dedicated wooden crate
  • Dedicated paddock stands, mat and motorcycle cover

*** Components not approved for road use

Source: Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A

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