Ducati is marking its 100th anniversary with the debut of what it describes as its most extreme street-legal motorcycle yet, the Superleggera V4 Centenario. The limited-production model reflects the Italian manufacturer’s long-standing focus on performance, combining advanced materials, high output, and race-inspired engineering in a road-going package.
Developed in Bologna, where the company was founded nearly a century ago, the new Superleggera V4 Centenario emphasizes both power and weight reduction. The motorcycle is built around a carbon-fiber chassis, with extensive use of the lightweight material throughout its construction. Components including the mudguards, tank cover and seat base are also made from carbon fiber, contributing to a total weight of just 368 pounds. That figure places it significantly below comparable models, including the Panigale V4 R.
The bike’s hardware reflects its performance intent. It is equipped with a pressurized Öhlins NPX 25/30 carbon fork and features a carbon-ceramic braking system, marking a first for a street-legal motorcycle. A racing-grade DID ERV7 chain further underscores its track-focused design, even as the model remains road legal.
Powering the Superleggera V4 Centenario is Ducati’s 1,103-cc Desmosedici Stradale R 1100 engine. The unit is lighter than similar engines used in other models and produces 228 horsepower in standard form. Output can be increased to 247 horsepower with optional racing components, further enhancing its performance capabilities. To help manage that power, the motorcycle includes a suite of electronic rider aids such as traction control, wheelie control, anti-lock braking and launch control.
Ducati plans to produce 500 examples of the Centenario, along with an additional 100 units of a more exclusive Tricolore variant. Each bike will feature a retro-inspired dark red racing livery and a signed plaque, highlighting its limited-edition status.
With a starting price of $165,000, the Superleggera V4 Centenario stands as both a technological showcase and a commemorative model, representing Ducati’s continued pursuit of performance as it enters its second century.
Via Ducati
