Ducati Panigale De-Cat: More Power, Less Weight

Ducati Panigale De-Cat: More Power, Less Weight

The Challenge

When P3 Tuning, a respected local motorcycle tuning specialist, approached us with a challenge to develop a high-performance de-cat pipe for a brand new Ducati 959 Panigale, we knew this was an opportunity to create something special. The goal was clear: maximize performance gains while dramatically reducing weight, all without compromising reliability or breaking the bank on production costs.

The Development Process

The journey began when the stunning 959 Panigale arrived at our workshop in Burscough, Lancashire (L40 8TG). Our team immediately got to work, meticulously analyzing the factory exhaust system and identifying areas for improvement.

The development process was intensive and thorough. We focused on creating tight 60mm radius bends that eliminated restrictions while maintaining the optimal tuned length for maximum exhaust gas flow. This wasn’t a one-and-done project – we went through three complete design iterations, refining and perfecting each element until we achieved exactly what we were looking for.

By the third iteration, we knew we’d nailed it. The design delivered exceptional performance characteristics while remaining practical for consistent manufacturing without excessive workshop time. This balance between performance and producibility is crucial for offering a product that’s both effective and accessible to riders.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

The weight savings alone are remarkable:

  • Standard exhaust box: 5.850 kg
  • MTC De-Cat Pipe: 1.30 kg
  • Total weight saving: 4.55 kg

That’s a massive reduction of nearly 78% in weight from the exhaust system alone. For a performance motorcycle where every gram counts, this is a game-changing improvement that positively affects handling, acceleration, and overall dynamics.

Real-World Performance Results

Once the de-cat pipe was installed and the bike was reassembled, it was time for the moment of truth. The Panigale was transported back to P3 Tuning’s dyno facility for testing. The complete package included:

  • MTC De-Cat Pipe
  • Max Torque Cans Motorbike Exhausts
  • K&N Air Filter
  • Custom ECU Mapping by P3 Tuning

The results exceeded expectations:

+10 BHP peak power gain+5 ft-lbs additional torque4.55 kg weight reduction

The Complete Package

What makes this modification so effective isn’t just the de-cat pipe alone – it’s the synergy of quality components working together. The free-flowing exhaust works in harmony with the high-flow K&N air filter, while the custom ECU mapping ensures the engine management system can take full advantage of the improved breathing characteristics.

The result is a Ducati 959 Panigale that’s not only faster and more responsive but also lighter and more agile through the corners. The power delivery is smoother, the throttle response is sharper, and the whole bike feels more eager to perform.

Why Choose MTC Performance?

This project perfectly demonstrates our approach to motorcycle performance upgrades:

  • Precision Engineering: Multiple design iterations ensure optimal performance
  • Tested Results: Dyno-proven gains, not just theoretical improvements
  • Quality Manufacturing: Designed for consistency and durability
  • Real Weight Savings: Actual measured results, not marketing hype
  • Expert Collaboration: Working with specialists like P3 Tuning to deliver complete solutions

Ready to Transform Your Panigale?

If you’re looking to unlock the true potential of your Ducati 959 Panigale, our de-cat pipe delivers proven results. With dramatic weight savings and genuine performance gains verified on the dyno, this is an upgrade that transforms how your bike performs.

Contact us today to discuss your Panigale performance upgrade.

Workshop Location: Burscough, Lancashire L40 8TG


Very happy with the results! 🏍️💨

 

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Max Torque
MTC Exhausts was established in April 2001 as I recognised that I could produce high quality, hand crafted exhausts made to individuals’ specifications at prices that would compare favourably with products currently on the market. Having previously been instrumental in the introduction of a Motorcycle Exhaust Department at ‘Blue Flame Performance Engineering’, I had a clear understanding of the market and customer requirements. What began as a small venture has now evolved and production has significantly increased, largely due to customer satisfaction, recommendations and a guarantee of receiving the product within 7 days of your order. Recently the company has evolved even further and with more staff and larger business premises, we are now able to travel to most exhibition shows in the U.K to display and sell our quality performance products. MTC Exhausts can also be found in a range of Motorcycle outlets around the country. Based in Burscough Lancashire, working alongside a well known motorcycle retailer allows me to keep up to date with the latest developments and models of superbikes, therefore providing me with an insight into current customer enquiries and requirements. I have been involved with the motorcycle industry for 22 years now and have personal experience of racing bikes which helps me to identify customer needs, in terms of performance. I have also been part of mechanic teams both prior to and during the TT races. Over the last few years, MTC have been proud to sponsor and support Red Viper Racing in the British Superbikes, Rob Barber in the TT where in 2009, Rob won the first ever TTX race and Carl Rennie who is an experienced TT racer and has finished an impressive 6th on a production bike. I have a City and Guilds 620 parts 1 & 2 in Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. I have a detailed engineering background, including 20 years welding experience. MTC Exhausts is a member of the Federation for Small Businesses. I hope you find this site useful and would hope to hear from you soon. Martin Leigh.
About Max Torque

MTC Exhausts was established in April 2001 as I recognised that I could produce high quality, hand crafted exhausts made to individuals’ specifications at prices that would compare favourably with products currently on the market. Having previously been instrumental in the introduction of a Motorcycle Exhaust Department at ‘Blue Flame Performance Engineering’, I had a clear understanding of the market and customer requirements. What began as a small venture has now evolved and production has significantly increased, largely due to customer satisfaction, recommendations and a guarantee of receiving the product within 7 days of your order. Recently the company has evolved even further and with more staff and larger business premises, we are now able to travel to most exhibition shows in the U.K to display and sell our quality performance products. MTC Exhausts can also be found in a range of Motorcycle outlets around the country. Based in Burscough Lancashire, working alongside a well known motorcycle retailer allows me to keep up to date with the latest developments and models of superbikes, therefore providing me with an insight into current customer enquiries and requirements. I have been involved with the motorcycle industry for 22 years now and have personal experience of racing bikes which helps me to identify customer needs, in terms of performance. I have also been part of mechanic teams both prior to and during the TT races. Over the last few years, MTC have been proud to sponsor and support Red Viper Racing in the British Superbikes, Rob Barber in the TT where in 2009, Rob won the first ever TTX race and Carl Rennie who is an experienced TT racer and has finished an impressive 6th on a production bike. I have a City and Guilds 620 parts 1 & 2 in Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. I have a detailed engineering background, including 20 years welding experience. MTC Exhausts is a member of the Federation for Small Businesses. I hope you find this site useful and would hope to hear from you soon. Martin Leigh.

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