The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Motorcycle Exhaust System
Exhausts play a big role in the look, sound and performance of your bike. Upgrading your exhaust can have a dramatic impact on all three.
Different exhaust designs and muffler configurations can produce a wide range of sounds, from a deep rumble to an eye-catching roar.
Exhaust pipes may discolor, depending on the type of metal and the level of heat exposure. Chrome pipes can turn blue, while stainless steel can turn golden.
OEM Parts
One of the most popular upgrades bikers make is to replace their motorcycle exhaust. The stock exhaust system can take a beating over time, and a new pipe can drastically alter the look and performance of your bike.
An exhaust is more than just a pipe; it is meticulously engineered to fulfill a specific job. The header takes away the noxious gases from the combustion, the midpipe runs the exhaust back to the rear and the muffler mutes the noise.
We offer a huge selection of OEM parts to replace your existing exhaust, or for performance upgrades. OEM replacements offer the same sound, fit and finish as the factory part, but with premium components to enhance the look and unleash more fire-breathing power beneath your seat. We also have aftermarket exhaust options from the top brands in the industry, like FMF Racing, Pro Circuit, Yoshimura, Cobra and Vance & Hines. Many of the aftermarket systems we carry are Executive Order approved to allow them to be sold and used on motorcycles intended for street use.
Aftermarket Parts
One of the most popular upgrades, a new exhaust system offers riders a variety of tangible benefits. A high-performance exhaust can increase engine power and torque by minimizing backpressure and optimizing air-fuel mixtures.
Its primary function is to expel noxious gases, including carbon monoxide and unburnt hydrocarbons, which helps ensure rider and passenger safety. It also contributes to the bike’s sound profile, with different exhaust designs and muffler configurations providing a range of sounds from a deep rumble to a high-pitched scream.
Full exhaust systems replace the entire stock exhaust from headers to muffler, resulting in significant performance gains. However, they can also require the use of a fuel tuner or ECU reprogramming to optimize air-fuel ratios. A slip-on exhaust, on the other hand, involves replacing only the muffler and is generally simpler to install. But it’s important to check the manufacturer’s fitment and compatibility information. This is especially important if you want to make sure the system will work with your specific motorcycle. Click here to shop motorcycle exhaust.
Custom Mapping
Changing your motorcycle’s exhaust is one of the best ways to upgrade its performance and enhance its aesthetics. Several top brands including Akrapovic, Two Brothers Racing, Graves Motorsports, and Yoshimura offer a wide selection of full and slip-on systems that are designed to improve horsepower gains and throttle response.
Another important consideration is the sound profile of your new system. Different exhaust designs and muffler configurations can produce a variety of sounds, from a deep rumble to a loud scream. Look for a system that aligns with your preferences and local noise regulations.
Finally, make sure that your new system is paired with a power commander and has a custom map. A custom mapping tells the power commander how to compensate for the change in your motorcycle’s engine performance, ensuring that your bike gets enough fuel and isn’t running too lean, which can cause engine damage. A quality map will also help to eliminate backfiring and other issues caused by the exhaust modification.
Performance
For riders who are serious about taking their motorcycle’s performance to the next level, upgrading the exhaust system is an excellent option. Few other parts offer as much for the dollar, improving the look and sound of the bike while adding more power.
Many OEM exhausts have limited style and noise options in order to appeal to a large audience, leading to systems that may not fit a rider’s aesthetic preferences. On the other hand, aftermarket exhausts provide a range of sound profiles, from subtle to thunderous. Some may even turn blue as they heat up, creating a natural patina that adds character.
Additionally, aftermarket manufacturers produce exhaust systems specifically designed for each motorcycle model. This allows for a more precise fit, optimizing the exhaust’s performance gains and contributing to an improved power-to-weight ratio. There are two main types of aftermarket exhausts: mufflers only and full systems. The mufflers-only systems retain the factory headpipe(s) and replace only the muffler, making them an easier upgrade to install. The full exhaust systems require a fuel controller or jet kit in order to optimize air-fuel ratios and can offer significant performance improvements.