Ducati Motor Holding has never been shy about creating exotic super bikes and the new Ducati 1299 Superleggera ($80K) is one to write home about. They have combined the most powerful bike they have ever made with a super light frame. At just 344 pounds, the 1299 Superleggera is lighter than what is allowed in the World Superbike race, while its 215 horsepower engine torques at 108 lb-ft to push this lightweight dynamo up to 180 mph.
While the 1299 Superleggera is light, it did not sacrifice strength to do it. The secret is that the monocoque frame, swing arm, subframe, and rims are all constructed with carbon fiber. The engine has reduced weight as well with extensive use of titanium, aluminum, and tungsten. Even the titanium springs in the rear shock absorber cut down gravity’s hold on this quick, speedy machine.
Ducati believes in the integrity of this impressive new bike so well they provide a full two year warranty. To keep it interesting, they are limiting the 1299 Superleggera to a total of five hundred units, so don’t wait too long to check it out.
