Ducati 1199 Superleggera: Lightest, Most Powerful Ducati Ever

Ducati superbikes have always been famous for their lightweight footprints, but the latest from the Italian manufacturer gets even leaner.  Called the Ducati 1199 Superleggera, it’s the lightest superbike ever in the company’s long line of two-wheeled speed demons.

Not only does it step things up by being leaner than the outfit’s previous superbikes, this limited-edition model is meaner, too.  Yep, posting a dry weight of 342 pounds isn’t impressive enough — the company claims it packs “the highest power-to-weight ratio of any production motorcycle,” too.

The Ducati 1199 Superleggera draws power from a 1198cc four-valve L-twin engine that produces over 200 horsepower at 11,500 rpm and 98.8 pound-feet of torque.  Design is based off the 1199 Panigale R, but with the make replaced to achieve the lighter weight, including a magnesium monocoque frame, forged magnesium wheels, carbon fiber bodywork and rear sub-frame, and a full titanium exhaust system.  It also uses a lighter lithium-ion battery, titanium bolts and fasteners, and other components specifically chosen for their lack of heft.   There’s even an optional racing kit that shaves a further 5.5 pounds on the bike’s dry weight, all while adding an extra 5 horsepower.

Electronics get an upgrade as well, with the new Ducati Wheelie Control and updated Ducati Data Analysis (DDA+), all of which can be accessed from handlebar-mounted control buttons for rapid on-track adjustments.  The entire bike comes dressed in Ducati Corse Red base livery.

Don’t get too attached, though.  Only 500 Ducati 1199 Superleggera will be made, priced at $65,000 each.