Ducati 848 Exhaust System - Aftermarket Options and Performance Upgrades

The Ducati 848 and Its Exhaust System

The Ducati 848 is an iconic Italian sportbike known for its throaty exhaust note and strong mid-range power delivery. As one of Ducati's most popular middleweight models, getting the most out of the 848's engine with an aftermarket exhaust system is a popular upgrade for many owners.

The Stock Ducati 848 Exhaust Explained

The stock Ducati 848 exhaust system consists of an exhaust header made up of individual stainless steel head pipes, a lower muffler assembly, and a pair of catalyzers to help the bike pass emissions regulations. This stock system is designed to keep the bike quiet and environmentally friendly at the expense of some performance.

The 848's L-twin engine displaces 849 cc and makes around 134 horsepower in stock form. While no slouch, many 848 riders install a less-restrictive aftermarket exhaust to help unlock more of the engine's potential horsepower and torque while also improving the bike's iconic Ducati exhaust note.

Benefits of an Aftermarket Ducati 848 Exhaust System

Some of the benefits of installing an aftermarket exhaust include:

• Increased horsepower and torque output
• Aggressive exhaust note for added excitement
• Weight reduction over stock system
• Customizable finish options
• Longer lasting stainless steel or titanium tubing

High performance exhausts do away with the bulky stock catalytic converters to allow the engine to breathe better. This reduces backpressure which directly translates to better power output. Free-flowing exhausts also introduce new notes and volumes to the Ducati's iconic v-twin sound.

Popular Exhaust Brands for the Ducati 848

Some of the most popular aftermarket Ducati 848 exhaust manufacturers include:

• Termignoni - Known for their race-bred exhaust systems made from exotic materials like carbon fiber and titanium.
• Akrapovic - Utilize titanium and carbon fiber to reduce weight while making deep exotic exhaust notes.
• Arrow - Offer a range of affordable fully stainless steel exhaust options.
• SC Project - Produce jewel-like exhausts know for their exotic sound at high RPMs.
• Graves Motorsports - Made in the USA, Graves exhausts offer deep bassy exhaust notes.

These aftermarket exhaust manufacturers offer slip-on mufflers, full systems, and even tuning compatible race systems for the Ducati 848. Take your pick from stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, or exotic carbon fiber exhaust materials.

ECU Tuning Along with a Ducati 848 Exhaust

While an aftermarket exhaust system helps unlock some extra horsepower, the 848 can really come alive when paired with an ECU flash. An engine control unit (ECU) tune helps remapped the bike's stock fuel map to account for the increased airflow from a less restrictive exhaust system.

An experienced tuner will optimize the Ducati's air/fuel ratios, ignition timing maps, rev limits, and other parameters to maximize horsepower and torque output. Most ECU flashes also remove RPM limiters which can hamper the bike at high speeds.

When shopping for a new Ducati 848 exhaust system, ask the manufacturer if they offer engine tuning or partner with any reputable tuners to provide custom mapping services.

Installing a New Exhaust on a Ducati 848

While everyone loves the roar of a new exhaust system, it's also important to have it properly installed to ensure optimum performance and safety. Here is a quick overview of the steps involved when installing a new exhaust on a Ducati 848:

1. Remove fairings and stock exhaust header/midpipe/muffler.
2. Inspect exhaust gaskets and replace if necessary.
3. Slide new midpipe over front header and attach rearward muffler/endcap.
4. Secure all brackets and check alignments.
5. Reinstall plastics and check for clearance issues.
6. Start the bike and check for exhaust leaks.
7. Enjoy your new exhaust note!

It's always smart practice to have a motorcycle shop perform the install if you don't have all the necessary tools and stands for the job. For most mid and full exhaust systems, the install can usually be performed in well under 2 hours by an experienced mechanic.

Breaking-In a New Ducati 848 Exhaust

It’s important to follow any break-in procedures recommended by the exhaust manufacturer to allow the components to properly seat before pushing the performance. Most systems will require 500-1000 miles of regular riding before hitting peak performance.

Resist the urge to bounce the RPMs off the rev limiter during break-in which can damage components. Follow all normal engine break-in procedures and avoid sustained highway cruising which can glaze the tubes. Simple is best during break-in: vary RPMs frequently and don't ride at one constant throttle position.

Is a Ducati 848 Slip-On Exhaust Enough?

For some added sound and performance, a slip-on exhaust is a quick and affordable option. Slip-ons replace the muffler section only and bolt up to the stock header pipes. This simplifies installation compared to a full system.

One downside is that slip-ons keep the front stock catalytic converters in place which restricts exhaust flow. This limits total horsepower gains. But for headache-free installation and a throatier sound, a quality slip-on could be enough exhaust modification for casual Ducati 848 riders.

When to Choose a Full Exhaust System

For maximum performance gains, a full exhaust system is required. Full systems replace the entire exhaust piping including the headers. This removes ALL restrictive catalytic converters and opens up the engine's potential.

Peak horsepower and torque gains require an ECU tune alongside a full exhaust. The engine needs proper fueling calibration to account for the huge bump in airflow. Hardcore Ducati 848 riders who demand the most performance always go for a complete exhaust system paired with fuel controller or custom ECU tuning.

We've explored the Ducati 848's exhaust system from stock to full race. Add that signature Ducati thunder to your 848! Just be sure to properly break-in your new exhaust components before pushing their limits. Now get out there and tear up the streets and tracks with your tuned Italian thunder machine!

FAQs

What are the benefits of an aftermarket exhaust on the Ducati 848?

Aftermarket exhausts offer more horsepower and torque, aggressive sound, reduced weight, customizable finishes, increased durability, and improved performance over the stock exhaust system.

What's the difference between a slip-on vs full exhaust system?

Slip-ons only replace the muffler section and keep the stock header and catalytic converters. This allows for easier installation but less total performance gains. Full systems replace the entire exhaust piping for maximum airflow and horsepower when paired with ECU tuning.

Should I get ECU tuning with my new Ducati 848 exhaust?

Yes, ECU tuning is highly recommended when installing most aftermarket exhausts. Remapping the fueling, timing maps, and other parameters is crucial to account for the increased airflow and achieve full horsepower gains across the RPM range.

What exhaust brands are popular for the Ducati 848?

Top brands for the Ducati 848 include Termignoni, Akrapovic, Arrow, SC Project, and Graves Motorsports. These manufacturers offer race, carbon, and stainless exhausts to suit different budgets and styles.