RACE EVO Upgrade to PLUS version from STANDARD: Is It Worth It?

Many Ducati owners who enhance their machines with aftermarket exhaust systems often grapple with tuning solutions. While factory-supplied upmaps offer convenience, they don’t always deliver the refined performance enthusiasts crave. One Ducati rider, known as MaverickiB, experienced this firsthand with the factory Akrapovic tune on a V4S, noting flat spots and a conservative power delivery. This experience highlights the common desire among Ducati owners to seek an optimal engine tune, leading many to consider upgrades like the RACE EVO Upgrade To PLUS Version From STANDARD.

For riders prioritizing a “safe tune” that seamlessly integrates with their bike’s electronics, the official Ducati Performance upmap appears to be a straightforward solution. The appeal is further enhanced by features like the “Racing Evo” dashboard display during startup and software designed to work harmoniously with Race/Sport/Wet Evo modes, including DTC EVO2. This integrated approach is particularly attractive for owners of newer Ducati models, like the 2020 bike mentioned in the original discussion, where aftermarket ECU tuning options may be limited compared to older models.

However, accessing the official Ducati upmap often requires purchasing the associated Akrapovic full system exhaust, a significant investment. A local Ducati dealership quoted requirements reflecting California’s stringent emissions regulations, including towing the motorcycle, removing lighting and license plates, and providing proof of non-operational status or an affidavit. Despite these hurdles, for a dedicated enthusiast with a bike intended primarily for track or display use, and who values the integrated factory solution, this path remains appealing. The dealership’s offer of a pick-up and delivery service further eases the process.

The high cost of the official Akrapovic system, potentially around $5,000, is a major consideration. For some, this expense might be justified as a final, definitive upgrade. However, the possibility of seeking even greater performance through custom tuning always lingers. This raises the question: is the convenience and perceived safety of the official RACE EVO Upgrade to PLUS version from STANDARD worth the premium, or would a more cost-effective approach involve custom tuning, potentially even selling the Akrapovic hardware separately? This dilemma is central to many Ducati owners contemplating performance enhancements.