Decat and Downpipes

Upgrading your motorcycle with decat and downpipes is one of the most effective ways to unlock genuine performance gains and give your ride a soundtrack it truly deserves. At Max Torque Cans, we specialise in precisely engineered performance exhausts designed to complement your machine’s character, and our range of decat and downpipes is no exception. Whether you’re chasing quicker throttle response, improved mid-range punch, or simply want to shed some unnecessary weight, this is where your build begins.

What Are Decat and Downpipes — and Why Do They Matter?

Your motorcycle’s standard catalytic converter and stock downpipes are engineered with emissions regulations and general road use in mind. That means they’re often restrictive by design. Our decat and downpipes remove that restriction entirely, allowing exhaust gases to flow freely from the engine rather than being choked through narrow passages and a heavy cat unit. The result is a more responsive throttle, improved power delivery across the rev range, and a noticeably more aggressive exhaust note that complements any aftermarket can or silencer you’ve fitted downstream.

Decat pipes replace the catalytic converter section of your exhaust with a straight-through or lightly perforated tube, eliminating the back pressure that robs your engine of performance. Downpipes, meanwhile, are the primary pipes that channel gases away from the cylinder head. When both components are upgraded together — as a matched set — the benefits are far greater than upgrading either in isolation. That’s why we offer decat and downpipes as a combined solution wherever fitment allows.

Key Features of Our Decat and Downpipes Range

• High-grade stainless steel construction — built to withstand extreme heat cycles and resist corrosion, even in the British climate.
• Mandrel-bent tubing — ensures consistent internal diameter throughout each bend, maintaining optimal gas flow without restriction.
• Precision TIG welding — clean, strong joins that handle the thermal stress of hard riding without cracking or leaking.
• Direct OEM replacement fitment — our decat and downpipes are designed to bolt straight onto your existing exhaust header and mid-section, with no fabrication required in most applications.
• Weight reduction — by removing the heavy catalytic converter unit, you shed meaningful mass from a central location on the bike, improving handling balance.
• Enhanced exhaust tone — when paired with an aftermarket performance can, the improvement in sound and character is immediately noticeable.

Fitment Guide for Decat and Downpipes

Our decat and downpipes are available for a wide range of popular motorcycle makes and models. Before placing your order, please ensure you’ve identified your exact model year and variant — fitment can vary even within the same model generation. If you’re unsure whether our decat and downpipes are compatible with your specific motorcycle, get in touch with our team and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Installation is straightforward for anyone with a basic mechanical understanding and the right tools. You’ll need to work with a warm but not scalding engine for the best results, as seized exhaust bolts are far more common on a cold engine. We recommend anti-seize compound on all threads during refitting, and a torque wrench to ensure nothing is over- or under-tightened. Most fitting jobs can be completed in under two hours on a standard naked or sports motorcycle.

Once your decat and downpipes are installed, we strongly recommend a fuel management remap or the fitting of an appropriate fuelling controller. Removing the cat and fitting freer-flowing pipes changes your air-to-fuel ratio, and running lean without addressing fuelling can cause running issues or, in worst-case scenarios, engine damage. This step is non-negotiable if you want to get the full benefit of your upgrade safely.

Pairing Your Decat and Downpipes with the Right Can

The decat and downpipes are only one part of the performance picture. To truly complete your exhaust upgrade, you’ll want a quality aftermarket silencer or performance can that matches the increased flow capacity. We offer a wide range of bespoke, hand-built cans here at Max Torque Cans that are designed to work in harmony with our decat and downpipes.

If you ride a classic British machine, take a look at our Triumph Speed Triple 955i 2000 – 2004 performance exhaust — a fantastic example of how a well-matched can and decat setup can transform a motorcycle’s character both in terms of sound and performance. Similarly, our bespoke build options mean you can specify exactly the finish, material, and configuration that suits your build.

When you upgrade your decat and downpipes alongside an appropriate silencer, you’re creating a complete, free-flowing exhaust pathway from the cylinder head to the exit point. This is when you’ll notice the most significant gains — both on the road and on a rolling road dyno. Riders consistently report smoother power delivery, stronger mid-range torque, and a far more engaging riding experience after completing the full upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions About Decat and Downpipes

Are decat and downpipes road legal in the UK?
Removing the catalytic converter from a road-registered motorcycle means it will no longer comply with current emissions legislation for road use. Our decat and downpipes are sold as off-road or track use components only. It is your responsibility to ensure your motorcycle complies with applicable regulations before riding on public roads.

Will fitting decat and downpipes void my warranty?
Modifying your exhaust with decat pipes can affect your manufacturer’s warranty, particularly if a dealer can demonstrate the modification caused the fault in question. If your bike is still under warranty, we recommend seeking advice before making changes to your exhaust setup.

Do I need to remap after fitting decat and downpipes?
Yes — as mentioned above, a remap or fuelling solution is strongly advised. Removing the cat changes the engine’s breathing characteristics, and your ECU needs to be told about it. An auto-tune fuelling controller is a popular and cost-effective option for many models.

How long will the installation take?
For a competent home mechanic, fitting decat and downpipes typically takes between one and three hours depending on the model and the condition of existing fasteners. Allow more time if your bike is older or has never had the exhaust removed before.

Ready to take the next step in your build? Browse our full range of bespoke performance cans and upgrades — and don’t forget to check out our Template Single Evo with surcharge option if you’re after a fully custom solution tailored to your machine. At Max Torque Cans, every product is built with passion, precision, and performance in mind.