The quietest Panigale in the world

For 1199 Panigale to be eligble in Japan, Ducati have had to make it quieter by adding a longer exhaust and a different clutch cover to pass noise tests.

The exhaust adds 4kg to the overall 164kg weight, it also requires a unique Japan-only engine mapping. Further dampening the sound is a plastic clutch cover that extends up to cover the rear cylinder.

The Panigale doesn't go on sale in Japan until September 29th, so it's clearly taken some time to sort the issue. Perhaps this is a solution to the Panigale's track day problem in the UK.

For those questioning the aesthetics of the exhaust. A reason why it hasn't been heavily stylized in line with the exotic Italian machine may not because Ducati couldn't be bothered, but because the Japanese have a long standing tradition and affection for old-fashioned big, round silencers - as it is a symbol of power.

What's your verdict on the long can on the beautiful Panigale?

By Robin Goodwin