Ducati has marked its 100-year presence with the unveiling of the Superleggera V4 Centenario, a limited-run superbike that pushes the boundaries of what a road-legal motorcycle can achieve. Production is limited to 500 units, alongside 100 exclusive Tricolore editions, marking its collector-focused strategy.
Positioned as the most advanced Superleggera to date, the Centenario brings prototype-grade engineering to the road, combining lightweight construction, race-derived aerodynamics and a significantly reworked V4 powertrain.
Engineering Without Compromise
At its core, the Superleggera philosophy remains unchanged:
- Extensive use of Carbon Fibre across the frame, swingarm, subframes and wheels
- Industry-first carbon-ceramic braking system homologated for road use
- Carbon-sleeved Ohlins front fork, another production first
- Wet weight (without fuel): 173 kg, reduced to 167 kg with the supplied racing kit
The result is a motorcycle engineered with a singular focus on reducing mass while improving structural rigidity and dynamic precision.
Powertrain: Increased Capacity, Higher Output
The Centenario introduces the new Desmosedici Stradale R 1100 engine, developed specifically for this model.
- Displacement increased to 1,103 cc
- Output of 228 hp with the racing exhaust system
- Up to 247 hp with the racing exhaust system
- Peak torque: 117.6 Nm (126.3 Nm with race setup)
The engine incorporates titanium internals, a lightened crankshaft with tungsten inserts and hand-adjusted desmodromic timing. The result is not only higher peak output, but improved mid-range performance and faster throttle response.
Chassis and Braking: Motorsport-Derived Hardware
Ducati has introduced several firsts in chassis and braking technology.
- Carbon-ceramic brake discs developed with Brembo, offering lower weight, reduced inertia and improved thermal stability
- Ohlins NPX 25/30 pressurised fork with carbon fibre sleeves
- Ohlins TTX36 GP rear shock with MotoGP-derived valving
Together, these systems are designed to deliver consistent braking performance under extreme conditions, while improving front-end feedback and cornering stability.
Aerodynamics and Design
Aerodynamic development draws directly from Ducati’s MotoGP programme.
- Winglets and corner sidepods generate downforce even at high lean angles
- Full carbon bodywork, partially exposed to highlight material quality
- New Rosso Centenario livery inspired by Ducati’s historic race machines
Ownership Experience
Beyond performance, Ducati positions the Superleggera V4 Centenario as a collector’s product.
- Delivered in a bespoke wooden crate with a certificate of authenticity
- Includes a full racing kit and dedicated accessories
- Select owners gain access to a MotoGP-style track experience, including time on a Desmosedici GP machine
Verdict
The Superleggera V4 Centenario represents the most uncompromising expression of Ducati’s engineering capabilities to date. By integrating MotoGP-derived technologies into a road-legal platform, Ducati has effectively blurred the line between production motorcycle and racing prototype.
It is not designed for practicality or accessibility. Instead, it stands as a showcase of what is possible when performance is prioritised above all else.
