First Ducati Superleggera V4 breaks cover

Three weeks after restarting production at its Borgo Panigale factory, Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali has revealed the first pre-production example of the brand's stunning new Superleggera V4.

Like the rest of northern Italy, Ducati was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restriction it ushered in. Now, however, the company is getting back up to speed and moving ahead with what it terms its "most powerful and technologically advanced production Ducati ever built".

Domenicali tweeted a snap of the first Superleggera V4, flanked by Ducati staff wearing face masks.

"The third week after the restart is nearly complete," he said.

"Dreams are becoming reality: this is the first unit of preproduction of the Superleggera, that is now ready to move into the final stages of quality control.

"No other street homologated motorcycle comes close the Superleggera: 224hp and a dry weight of 159kg. This bike is a true dream for every passionate motorcyclist."

Limited to just 500 units, Ducati first released details of the Superleggera V4 back in February 2020. It's the only street-legal motorcycle to feature a carbonfibre chassis, swingarm and wheels.

"The Superleggera V4 represents the company's greatest masterpiece in terms of engineering, design and of course performance," says Ducati.

"Powered by a 998cc 90-degree V4 and accompanied by biplane wings and extreme aerodynamics, the Superleggera V4 offers a power-to-weight ratio of 1.54 horsepower per kilogram in racing kit configuration."

Each of the 500 Ducati Superleggera V4 models built will be individually numbered and provided with a certificate of authenticity.

Owners will also get to participate in the 'SBK Experience', where they'll get to ride the Panigale V4 R that competes in the World Superbike Championship.

Meanwhile 30 Superleggera V4 owners will also have an exclusive opportunity to receive access to the 'MotoGP Experience' and ride the Desmosedici GP20 used by Dovizioso and Petrucci, with the close support of the Ducati Corse technicians.

At the time of purchase Ducati Superleggera V4 owners will also have the exclusive opportunity to purchase a Dainese leather suit (with integrated air-bag) as well as a carbonfibre helmet from Arai. Both items have been specifically designed for the Superleggera V4 and incorporate the bike's colours and graphics.