Throwing it back to the summer saw photos circulate of a new Panigale which got us thinking V4 Superleggera. Visually it looked very similar to the current V4S and V4R; however, the fairings were carbon and the exhaust was completely different. Recent years have seen Ducati release Superleggera (super-light) version of the flagship superbike. A full fat, minimal weight ultra-exclusive, and ultra-pricey ultimate mega superbike.
Ducati V4 Superleggera we can’t wait to review it!
Arguably the Superleggera trend started in 2007 when Ducati released the Desmosedici RR, the closest thing you could get to a Moto GP bike, while still being road legal, and still affordable to some people.
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V4 Superleggera price
The previous generation of Panigale to get the Superleggera treatment was the 1299. Only 500 were made, with an eyewatering price tag of £72k but believe it or not, they all sold. The 2017 1299 Superleggera had a carbon frame and wheels, dual ‘wheelbarrow handle’ style Akrapovic exhaust with a refined engine and electronics package over the standard 1299. Therefore any spec less than the 1299 version would surely be disappointing to Ducati fans.
Dubbed Project 1708 the new Ducati V4 Superleggera promises even more Gucci kit than the current V4 lineup. Leaked information shows a highly advanced aerodynamic package, making more downforce than the V4R (which itself made more than the GP bike). Also, we see carbon fiber bodywork, chassis (frame, subframe, swingarm, and wheels).
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V4 Superleggera engine
Engine-wise the spec sheet claims the most powerful and lightest Stradale R powerplant aiming for 224hp. New lightweight camshafts, dry clutch, and with the included racing Akra system power peaks to 234hp. Whether project 1708 will use the 1000cc engine from the V4R or the 1100cc engine from the V4S remains unknown at the moment. Both engines make around the same power figure, but I would say the V4R 1000cc lump will be used with its higher state of tune, lightweight layout, and is already dry clutch equipped.
The suspension comes from Ohlins with a modified TTX36 rear shock and NPX forks, all complete with GP spec valves. Stylema R, Brembo’s brand new revised caliper for 2020 handles the stopping.
The claimed dry weight according to the spec sheet is 152kg, saving 20kg’s over the already lean V4R. This weight saving comes at a cost, with a target selling price of $100,000 (£76,500).
We anticipate more information about the V4 Superleggera to come out in early February, with production starting in April, and delivery starting in May.
Keep an eye on Ridewithpeaks to stay up to date with all the info!