Enhancing your 959 Panigale Rapid Bike Evo

How to get the best out of Ducati’s middleweight V-twin sportsbike

£437.99 plus £299 Blipper

“The Evo takes that initial flat-spot out of the 959’s throttle response and is self-learning, so it doesn’t need dyno time,” says John. “It makes a big difference to the ride and I also fitted the £299 extra optional blipper module to add a downshift.” www.rapidbike.co.uk

High screen From £80

The 959 Panigale’s standard screen is a total waste of time; replacing it with a double-bubble aftermarket or official Ducati accessory is essential if you want any shelter whatsoever from the windblast. Interestingly, the V2 has quite a tall screen as standard.

Arrow Exhaust From £999

“The stock twin stacked pipes are horribly heavy and the cats very restrictive,” says John. “Most owners go for Ducati’s Akrapovic accessory items but these are pricier than alternatives and I reckon the Arrow system looks better and has a removable baffle. It’s a nightmare to fit so while you are doing it, you may as well put in a free flowing air filter” www.arrow.it/en

Gear shift kit £175

“This comes with a new detent arm, spring and ceramic bearing and makes the gearchange more positive, which helps with the aftermarket quickshifter as it isn’t as slick as the factory-fit V2’s item,” says John. “It is hard to justify £175 for a small amount of parts but it does its job.” www.factorypro.com

Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tyres From £250

Ducati has armed the V2 with Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tyres as standard and John reckons the Pirelli’s soft carcass construction suits the 959 Panigale as well, giving excellent front-end feedback as well as excellent grip levels for both road and track use. www.pirelli.com