The word “superleggera” probably didn’t mean anything to many people years ago, but thanks to cars like the Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera, most people (especially gearheads) know it means “super light”. Now there’s yet another super light vehicle to remember, this time it’s the 2014 Ducati 1199 Superleggera, which is the world’s lightest production superbike.
The 1199 Superleggera is at the top of the food chain at Ducati, slotting above the already light and powerful 1199 Panigale R. The Superleggera is even more exclusive, only 500 bikes will be produced, 3/4ths of which have already been spoken for by previous Ducati special edition bike owners.
The Ducati 1199 Superleggera weighs only 341.7 pounds (155 kg) dry and is powered by a 1198cc L-Twin engine, producing over 200 horsepower at 11,500 rpm and 98.8 pound-feet (134 Nm) of torque at 10,200 rpm. The Superleggera weighs 22.3 pounds less and produces 5 more horsepower than the Panigale R.
The weight reduction is achieved by using exotic materials found on supercars. The bike comes with a magnesium monocoque, magnesium wheels, carbon fiber bodywork, titanium exhaust system, titanium bolts, and a lithium ion battery. The 1199 Superleggera is equipped with lightweight Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes.
Like the Panigale R, the Superleggera comes with a host of electronic goodies to keep the rider on the road with the shiny side up. These systems include DWC (Ducati Wheelie Control), DTC (Ducati Traction Control), and EBC (Engine Brake Control). Ducati is also offering a track pack on the Superleggera, which consists of a racing wind screen and Akrapovic racing exhaust system. The track pack adds 5 horsepower and reduces the weight by 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg).
The 2014 Ducati 1199 Superleggera is priced at $65,000 US. Via: Ducati
2014 Ducati 1199 Superleggera Photo Gallery
