Keeping your bike’s pipes clean and stain-free can be challenging. Whether it’s from excessive heat or just normal wear and tear, exhaust wrap can help keep the pipes looking like new.
A slip-on exhaust simply slides over the existing pipe and replaces the muffler, making it an affordable, easy-to-install modification. But it’s important to check local laws to make sure that the new system complies with regulations. Check out more at Motorcycle exhaust guide.
What is an Exhaust Pipe?
The primary function of a motorcycle exhaust system is to expel the waste products created by the combustion process and channel them away from the bike and rider. This ensures that the engine operates safely and efficiently while also reducing noise levels for riding comfort.
Pipes come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are usually made of stainless steel, aluminum or titanium, but they can be manufactured from other metals as well. These pipes are designed with performance in mind, and the diameter, header layout and pipe length are all tuned to enhance gas flow at a specific engine rpm range.
Pipes have an inside and outside diameter – the inner diameter is larger. The exhaust pipe can also be configured with components like mufflers, which reduce the noise.
What is a Slip-On Exhaust?
Exhaust systems are complex systems that operate by regulating and optimizing the flow of gases from your motorcycle’s engine. This allows your bike to burn fuel more efficiently, boosting performance and creating that distinctive exhaust note that sets it apart from all the rest.
One of the most popular upgrades for your motorcycle is a set of slip-on exhausts. These are designed to be easy and user-friendly, allowing you to upgrade your motorcycle without the hassle of a full system replacement. These modifications are typically made from carbon fiber or titanium and offer a variety of aesthetic options. They also provide a small boost in low-end power, improving your ability to jump off the line and gain speed. However, they are not as effective for boosting mid- to high-end power performance.
What is a Full System Exhaust?
Full system exhausts include the header, mid-pipe and muffler and offer a more comprehensive upgrade than slip ons. The redesigned components allow for optimized flow which can result in performance gains such as increased power and torque.
These systems are usually made of better quality materials that can withstand the heat of your engine without corroding like cheaper stock exhausts. In addition, they are also lighter which can help improve your motorcycle’s power-to-weight ratio.
If you decide to go with a full exhaust, make sure you get a tuner to remap your bike for maximum power and efficiency. Additionally, consider an ecu flash as it prevents your bike from running lean and makes for a more enjoyable ride. All these upgrades will significantly increase your horsepower and torque.
What is a Header?
The header is the first part of your exhaust system. It connects to the engine and collects gases from the cylinders before directing them to the collector pipe, which is often a smaller tube that can be bent into whatever style of exhaust you like.
The collector can be stepped to create torque, or it can be smoothed to minimize energy loss. It also has to be secured with an exhaust bracket. Brackets can be made from anything from a piece of solid bar to angle iron and sheet metal.
The mid-pipe/collector then leads to the muffler or back section of the exhaust. The muffler reduces noise and may include a catalytic converter to help cut down on harmful emissions, although some full exhaust systems may be designed for racing purposes and omit the converter.
What is a Muffler?
A muffler is a canister that passes the exhaust gases from your engine before they exit through the tailpipe. It is responsible for changing the sound of those escaping gases into a tone that is both pleasant and desirable.
The muffler works by decreasing the velocity of the gases, absorbing some of the sound waves and canceling others by interference with reflected waves. The muffler also can manipulate the frequencies of the sound, enhancing certain sounds and masking others.
Upgrading your motorcycle’s exhaust system is a relatively easy and inexpensive way to unlock a trifecta of benefits: enhanced performance, weight reduction and a soul-stirring exhaust note. However, it is important to understand the difference between slip-ons and full system exhaust systems before making your purchase.