Ducati has revealed the first pre-production example of its ultra high-end Superleggera V4, as the Italian company officially reopens its factory.
Just 500 Superleggera V4s will be built, with a number of units confirmed for the Australian market, however, pricing has yet to be locked in.
“I can confirm that this model will be coming to Australia,” Ducati Australia head of marketing Alana Baratto told INFO MOTO.
“More information on this exclusive model can be found at your authorised Ducati Dealer.”
Those lucky enough to afford a Superleggera will also get the opportunity to participate in the SBK Experience, which allows Ducati owners to ride the Panigale V4 R that competes in the World Superbike Championship.
Even luckier owners may also take part in the MotoGP Experience, allowing them to ride the Desmosedici GP20 ridden by Dovizioso and Petrucci.
Earlier this week, Ducati chief executive officer Claudio Domenciali showed the upcoming superbike on Twitter.
“The third week after the restart is nearly complete,” he said.
“Dreams are becoming reality: this is the first unit of pre-production of the Superleggera, that is now ready to move into the final stages of quality control.
“No other street homologated motorcycle comes close [to the] the Superleggera: 224 horsepower and a dry weight of 159 kilograms.
“This bike is a true dream for every passionate motorcyclist”.
As previously reported, the Ducati is the only street-legal motorcycle that boasts a carbon-fibre chassis, swingarm and wheels.
The Superleggera delivers no less than 164kW in road-legal configuration (EU homologation figures).
Beneath the carbon skin is a Desmosedici Stradale R 998cc V4 engine, 2.8 kg lighter than the 1103cc V4.
Carbon fibre, titanium and magnesium componentry help the bike register a dry weight of just 159kg (1kg less than the Panigale V4), resulting in a record-breaking power-to-weight ratio of 1.41 hp/kg: the highest ever figure recorded by a road-legal sports bike.
At the time of purchase Superleggera V4 owners will also have the exclusive opportunity to purchase a Dainese leather suit (with integrated air-bag) as well as a carbon fibre helmet from Arai. Both items have been specifically designed for the Superleggera V4 and incorporate the colours and graphics.
Spencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
