Harley-Davidson Exhaust Systems, Sorting Out the Who and What

[@GixxerFoo]

What's your favorite style of exhaust system?

[@bharatnagarajan5780]

I love my SE II on my 00 Heritage Softail.

[@dhoov4452]

currently I'm running a Vance and Hines true dual headers with Rinehart slip ons on my '09 flhtc

[@thechiefengineer5886]

Bassani road rage B2 , got it on one of my street bob ... really think i want one on my other dyna (was thinking about V&H short shots til this video )

[@stevebonnesen3539]

Thunderheader on my 96" 99 Evo Heritage Classic...drag pipes 34½" 45° slash cut w/ splitters on my 1973 91 ci Shovelhead...light to light hauls ass my friend...

[@jeckel6953]

2-1... even on my bagger

[@geoffreydunlop8856]

Dude, your into into the three factors into exhausts is the best I ever heard. I usually start grinding my teeth whenever someone says that you need back pressure, when instead you need velocity of your exhaust gas flow.

[@xc8487]

I think a ThunderHeader with wrap is the definition of form follows function, and they sound awesome.

[@GixxerFoo]

Those pipes work and do it very well!

[@alanquintus2069]

Agreed. I got tired of rewrapping every few years. Now I use VHT header paint.

[@chrismartin6544]

Agreed my Thunderheader sounds amazing on my 107ci motor w

[@49r4life]

@@alanquintus2069 you paint the wrap or just the header?

[@alanquintus2069]

@@49r4life The header. There's no wrap on it at all.

[@MAHGlie]

I’m checking in 2 years late but truly appreciate your videos. Been a rider for over 50 years if you count starting at 11! Just bought a 2016 Road Glide Ultra that has a Rush ceramic coated header (on cat) and Rush “Big Louie” slip-one, stage1 air cleaner and V&H FP-3 tuner. Runs great but the BL slip-ons are really loud. Going to pull the baffles and repack them or go back to the stock mufflers, keeping the header and see how it goes. If that does do it for me then I’ll join the slip-on of the month club and try something else.

[@xldh44]

I have an '03, Sportster XLH 883 Anniversary that I bought new in 2016... I say new because it had 236 original miles. One of the first things I wanted to upgrade was the exhaust system from the OEM. Not for exhaust volume but for performance. I had something particular in mind until I saw this video and honestly was convinced that a pair of Screaming Eagle mufflers would work as well if not better than the full system I was looking at. My thoughts and basic plan was not to turn a Briggs and Stratton into a Titan Rocket but more to just extract what's in there (not being utilized) accepting incremental improvements. I followed through with that and was blown away! That "incremental improvement" was more like a motor job than a muffler swap! Thank you so much!! I study your videos regardless of how they apply may apply to my ride because it's valuable information. Thank you again.

[@thejerseyj9422]

The thing about a crossover pipe, especially an "x pipe" style is they help with scavenging. The pulse coming out of one pipe helps to clear what's left in the other and really increases velocity.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's absolutely correct, the pipes increases velocity and actually draws exhaust gas down the system out of the combustion chamber.

[@ltsgarage7898]

Good lord. Someone that understands why you need a cross over on a Harley…

[@hawkdsl]

Long shots with cross over and "quiet" baffles. Love em. Sound is perfect.

[@rider14mcd63]

I have them on my Sporster, same baffles. Best sound.

[@GixxerFoo]

Yes! The long pipes need to make a come back!

[@hawkdsl]

​ @GixxerFoo @@rider14mcd63 I went round and round trying to find that deep tone without so much "Blat Blat" you get with straight or regular bfls. I even went so far as to make my own glass packs to fit inside a set of V&H. The Long shots and Q-baffles was spot on perfect. And for those wondering, they are not "quiet" at all.

[@richardbrowning8829]

Got the quiet baffles on mine but took the wadding off. Found standard baffles too loud on long ride. The quiet baffles just take the edge off.

[@Mark-mm1ke]

Great content. Really like your channel. Back when I bought my '14 SGS, I had asked for true duels, 2 into 2, on the bike, but they thought I want the power duels and put that on instead. I had had the true duels on my last bike and like it. I asked if they would change it and they said no problem. Once they were done, I got the call telling me to pick up the bike. I remember the guy telling me "I don't think you are going to be happy with this change". LOL So I took the bike down the road and though OMG what did I do! I lost 10% of my torque changing the header pipe from a duel with X over to straight duels. I crawled back and beg forgiveness. They changed them back for some labor cost. All good. Keep up the great work.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! Damn that's awesome they went ahead and changed it back for a little labor charge, that cross over section makes a huge difference!

[@petealman6996]

Great video and content. It’s refreshing to see someone on KZbin that knows what they are talking about and can explain it in no bs terms. Keep up the good videos man.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! I appreciate your support, it mean a lot to me!

[@ronkelty5401]

Dude said in another video that spark plug wires made his bike sound better..🤷‍♂️

[@flashburn3580]

Vance and Hines short staggered duels. I was at the HD dealer yesterday getting tires, So I was looking at all the new big inch rides. When my Heritage fired up heads started turning I knew immediately it was mine. Gotta love it haha.

[@GixxerFoo]

Yes! I love it when you just know it's your bike!

[@ll4133]

One of the first things I learned about maximizing engine performance was the "air in" "air out" of the combustion chamber, which in turn led me to exhaust flows. Even back in the "70's" it was noted how 2 in 1 exhaust systems gave optimum performance. It was noticed especially on "flat track" twins and "drag bikes". It didn't take a whole lot of research to convince me. Nice job breaking it down GixerFoo! 2013 FXSB w/Bassani Road Rage II.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I appreciate it! Exhaust systems are really more than just noise, unless you don't care about performance and just want looks and sound.

[@dougankrum3328]

Since the 70's...Yes, I started messing with aftermarket exhaust when I bought a 72 sporty...then in 75 I bought a 46 Knuckle...the knuckle seems to run really well with the 2" pipes i made, and the original Super Trapps where you can change the discs. No matter what, you still can't really get top power all the way from idle to red-line,

[@xldh44]

Five... 15 stars for you my friend! This is the most comprehensive, easily understood tutorial, I have yet to see, anywhere! I have an '03 HD 883 (that I absolutely love) ...I am inquisitive about and fiercely driven to achieve enhanced performance. (Lucky for me I'm not a speed freak... "Honey, I need to do this pricey motor upgrade... we're gonna have to sell your Jeep!") I know what I think I could or want to be "better" ...I have my laundry list for the approach I should take to make that happen. Exhaust systems were #3 on the list... or were, with two successes under my belt, item three 3 is now #1. Your video has filled in all the blanks as well as spoke to a few things I either wasn't aware of or did not realize the significance of. Thank you, thank you, thank you!! I am ready to make my move with great confidence as to the results I am seeking. As I alluded to, I am very keen on study and will vet as many ideas, opinions and "philosophies" as necessary till I find a consistency and credibility that gives me the confidence I just mentioned. There are no shortage of resources "here" (how nice) but I'd like you to know... you have become my gold standard! For what this is worth, you may also have saved marriage... armed with what I've learned here, I can pursue that next upgrade without having to sell the old la... my young babe's rolling treasure! Thanks for a great video man!

[@GixxerFoo]

I am very happy to help! The exhaust is very important, you can spend a lot of money and up with a lot of disappointment with the wrong exhaust. 883 is a stout motor and a great place to start, add a 1275 kit and you'll be ready to roll!

[@xldh44]

@@GixxerFoo You have, thank you so much!! 1275 eh? ...there's goes the Jeep! 👍🏻 Be safe

[@xldh44]

@GixxerFoo Good afternoon. Thank you again for a great video that answered many questions, including some I didn't know to ask but were beneficial in helping get me closer to the "right exhaust for me!" My ultimate mission is improved performance. I have no desire break, drag records, the sound barrier nor my neighbors eardrums. After seeing your video, I am convinced a crossover exhaust is the best way for me to go. Having a stock 883 I'm half way there... well mostly stock. I had a friend rebuild my stock carburetor... he fixed me up with a stage one set-up, unbeknownst to me. Then I upped the ante be installing a cheap but effective air filter that added a whole lot more air into the system. Re that, my deal there was strictly cosmetic, I liked the look of it (circular, 4" in diameter with a thick see through plexi cover. I've seen a lot of them around and not just on Sportsters) and I was tired of banging my knee on that "gomby" stock filter cover... now all I need is a good set of "slip ons" to complete my "accidental" stage one upgrade. I am assuming that all that combined; I may... should? feel some kind of noticeable performance boost. After going sideways for awhile with my research for the slip ons; I decided to ask you. Given what I've told you, could you recommend a slip on muffler that would go well with what I have right now. Thank you so much!

[@arthurleino]

I enjoyed this video this morning. I still ride my Harley Davidson FXWG 1983 since 1983. The best sounding pipes I had were drag pipes with Kromwerks HP baffles. Now I have Staggered duals. Neighbors like them better!

[@GixxerFoo]

Oh gosh I bet your neighbors like those better! That's awesome you've held onto your bike that long over the years. It's possible with other brands but Harley is about the only one you can still get parts for and that's factory parts too. There are very few Harley parts that are obsolete, except a Vrod oil cooler, lol that was fun even finding someone to repair a radiator today.

[@ligmasack9038]

@@GixxerFoo I still wish they would bring back the V-Rod, I always thought that was a slick looking Bike.

[@Jimmy_Jim_Jim_1234]

I have a V&H Big Radius 2.2 on my 2010 Dyna Superglide C. Couldn't be happier. It has a deep, lower pitched sound and good smooth power.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's a beautiful exhaust system, they sound damn good too!

[@Jimmy_Jim_Jim_1234]

@@GixxerFoo Yea its great. It has the hidden crossover like you recommended. And doesn't piss off the whole nabourghhood.!

[@Jimmy_Jim_Jim_1234]

Awesome video with great info thanks!!!!

[@danwhyte3524]

Nice to see somebody that knows what they're talking about! When I was young it was loud & proud. But much older now & run Reinhardt's on my 2010 FLH. Nice deep throaty sound!!! Sucks getting old,....

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! They have some very nice systems, I've run Vance & Hines quite a bit but I am coming over the Reinhardt exhaust.

[@Hoprgras]

I came close too going 2 into 1, but I cant get away from that Harley Sound. And my wife loves it too. Sold, 2 into 2 it is.

[@JoseMorales-vw4qf]

Thanks... Now I know my system. Bought 2008 Ultra glide anniversary edition. Bike came with 3.5" Python slash cut/scalloped slip-on mufflers...Fuelpak (First version)...Python dual header pipes without cross over and sounds real good. Vanes&Hines stage 1 washable, non oiled air filter.

[@GixxerFoo]

Python makes an awesome system, they run really good when you get some air in and out of those bikes.

[@JoseMorales-vw4qf]

@@GixxerFoo Again, Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@semperfipar1299]

Staggered shortie, stock. I put a 3/8 inch hole in the plug and gave it a more deep sound. The down side to the crossover was adjusting the idle air mixture. The good thing is in cold weather it gets the fuel ready to burn.

[@scottarmstrong1172]

Great video. I agree with everything you said. Personally I prefer the 2 into 2, which I have on my soft tail now, but I have used different exhaust on different bikes. I had true duels on my street glide which I really liked, slip-ons on my last sportster, and ran mostly drag pipes in my younger days. For me it depends on the bike and the performance level of the motor.

[@GixxerFoo]

Right on! Yeah it's really dependent on the bike and your goals with it.

[@chermiller8369]

i have used a lollipop in v&h big radius 2-2 on 07 night train. now have 2016 fatboy s. basanni radial sweepers with a 1" washer on a 3/16 bolt, a home made version of the thunder torque insert. in my opinion it works well. having the bike dyno tuned with the baffles in and then going to add the lollipop. talked with a guy at dk customs and was going to buy the tti but he mentioned the lollipop honestly wasn't very compareable so i just got a big washer for my project he did say the bigger the washer without inhibiting exhaust was best. i may try bigger washer after this trial run. however, according to dk customs and big city thunder the lollipop or there version are very competitive for reducing reversion and improving low and mid range torque.

[@ssbolts88]

Love the Vance and Hines pro pipe 2 into 1 on my road glide touring bike. Pulls down low all the way up top

[@GixxerFoo]

I do like the look and sound of the pro pipe 👍, great exhaust for good torque!

[@ssbolts88]

@@GixxerFoo it sure is. I wanted the d&d but the price hurt my feelings

[@hphillips7425]

I agree with you on the 2 into 1. I pulled the baffle out and the power drop was evident

[@GixxerFoo]

Patriot 2 into 1's have a butterfly valve in the exhaust so you can tune the sound and power. Really a neat design but it could really mess with your tuning unless you have a wide band system.

[@mickcabraja4657]

The more often I see your posts the upper shelf in the background is sagging a little bit more

[@GixxerFoo]

I swear it's got a planned replacement coming soon!

[@GixxerFoo]

😄😂 thank you! My wife is the carpenter, video coming soon!

[@twowheelterror2925]

LOL!!! I said the same thing. That shelf is scaring me!

[@joetroutt7425]

That's how he gets subs. When he gets to a million he'll fix it.

[@twowheelterror2925]

@@joetroutt7425 LOL... A couple of 2x4s would go a long way to help!

[@bobgreene438]

I put new Avon rubber on the front and rear three weeks ago. After that, I figured 'screw it' and bought Bassani Road Rage 3 for my 2000 FLHR. I chose them because I like the stainless finish and they look good. Sound is loud when accelerating, but quiets down cruising around town. At highway speeds, yeah, it's loud. At least people see me now.

[@GixxerFoo]

Loud pipes make people look!

[@bubba9482]

2016 FLTRXS (that's a Road Glide Special for those of you in Rio Linda (miss you Rush)), with Drago's Dragula 2 (2:1). Love the look, sound and performance.

[@tonisiegel4964]

Supertrapp fat shot you can tune the header itself to perform in conjunction with the motor mods you are running and if you do more motor upgrades you can retune the header to the new setup. It also sounds good and is fairy priced .

[@GixxerFoo]

Supertrapp is an excellent system, you don't hear much about them these days.

[@turbosure7873]

I have tapered duals on my two 79’s, an XLH and an FXEF. I really like that classic Harley sound from the 70’s. Newer Harley owners seem to have a lot of choices, back when my bikes were new it was stock, tapered duals or drag pipes. The stock setup was a little too quiet, drag pipes made you the scourge of the neighborhood so tapered duals it was. It was a simpler time.

[@GixxerFoo]

You just can't beat the sound of the shovel, I love those motors. You can rebuild a shovel on a dirt floor in a barn, those motors don't care.

[@turbosure7873]

@@GixxerFoo "On a dirt floor in a barn".I don't think you can describe a Shovel any better than that.

[@commonsensepatriot9450]

Nice to hear someone who understands the theory of how exhaust systems work. I owned a dyno business for several years and specialized in tuning Harleys. Explaining this to customers can be exhausting!!! 😂

[@GixxerFoo]

Oh gosh l understand completely, l worked in shops for many years and felt like l could just play back a recording on the counter. I imagine you got wore out trying to explain this especially as a tuner.

[@commonsensepatriot9450]

@@GixxerFoo to the point where I sold the business. Everyone with a laptop thought they were a tuner and everyone with a toolbox thought they were a tech. Lol

[@boomerguy9935]

Wonderful video and I agree with everything you said. I think you left out one more option, the "lollipops". These also address the pulse issue, modify the sound and increase low end torque. My 2005 Sporty 883 has factory headers, aftermarket slip-on's with baffles plus the DKCustoms Thunder Torque Inserts ("TTI's" which do everything they claim. They deepened the "voice" of my exhaust without increasing the volume and increased the torque. I just used the same bolt hole for the baffles and installation was easy. These are not expensive and they are removable. No, I do not work for DKC and they did not pay me anything for saying this. They are that good.

[@GixxerFoo]

I've heard a lot of good things about DK exhaust, I am looking at trying one on my Sportster too!

[@jamessouthworth1699]

I took a stock two into one exhaust from a 2015 Dyna Low Rider, removed the catalytic converter material, and modified it to fit my 2003 Dyna. Just removing the catalytic material makes it noticeably louder but with the stock Muffler it's still not too loud and I can always run an aftermarket slip-on later if I want to.

[@GixxerFoo]

Harley makes a good header but those cats sucks, sounds like you made one hell of an exhaust out of the stocker!

[@jamessouthworth1699]

@@GixxerFoo Thanks. I was running a Two Brothers 2 into 1 for a little while but on those long rides over 500 miles in a day it really started to go right through me. I guess I'm truly becoming an old man now. I like power but not so much the noise.

[@BillyBlaze7]

I always use V&H true duals and big city thunder baffles, love the sound

[@michaelzapata8571]

Running a DND and makes my softail smoke !

[@GixxerFoo]

Sounds like it's running rich, may need to lean it out a little.

[@SooHighFashion]

I went with bassani's new road rage short "ripper" 2-1 stainless steel exhaust on my 2020 softail standard. Man sound clips don't do it justice, when you give it the beans it screams, and it sounds really unique. It's not too loud when cruising which is perfect for me as well. Had vance & Hines big radius on my 2019 iron 1200, they sounded great but after like an hour my ears were ringing

[@GixxerFoo]

Bassani makes a damn good exhaust, I'm gonna have to check that new one out you have.

[@SooHighFashion]

@@GixxerFoo there aren't many videos of it, put miles on it has a video on it but like i said videos don't do it justice. I know on get lowered cycles KZbin channel they have sound clips and dyno charts for it btw

[@pb68slab18]

Most of the time, customers chose exhaust systems on based on price , style/looks and sound/volume. Some flat out ask for whatever is LOUDEST. For better or worse, the cheapest ones are often the loudest. And then they don't want to spend anything on tuning. For touring bikes , I like the V&H Tru-Duals. I've never had another system install as easy. It takes longer to take a stock system off!

[@GixxerFoo]

That's very true! The loudest exhaust system doesn't mean it performs well!

[@brunothebold3139]

On my 2020 cvo limited, stage 4 131, went with supertrapp catless headers and supertrapp slip ons,, 2 into 2 , love the mean loud sound and power is very strong

[@GixxerFoo]

Hell yeah, does yours have the tuneable disc setup?

[@brunothebold3139]

GixxerFoo no mate, just interior built in baffles, which are practically non existent,,,

[@markam306]

I love to hear Harleys cruise by, some more than others. From a sound lovers perspective, I divide exhaust sounds into two components: 1. The loud crack of the exhaust valve opening into a straight pipe. It’s loud, high frequency, and irritating (to me). The straight pipes do not attenuate the sharp transient, the instantaneous sound pressure wave produces a ‘spike’ much louder than the average sound pressure level of this exhaust. 2. The lower frequency rumble of an exhaust with enough volume to mellow out the pulses. This is the sound I live for. Even at loud levels it’s not irritating. The right size glass pack accomplishes this even with the baffle removed.

[@GixxerFoo]

I like that nice mellow rumble that doesn't spike the frequency chart too, when it's tuned just right and has a nice controlled sound.

[@markam306]

@@GixxerFoo A couple of decades ago I was shopping for a slip on for my 1200 Bandit. I actually called the Yoshimura office in California and talked to one of the technical people. He stressed muffler volume as the prime factor in achieving low frequency rumble. I bought the largest Yosh pipe that would fit and was very happy.

[@conservativeteacher1987]

I'm with you on your preference for something with a lower frequency sound signature. My 99 EVO with a mild cam and V&H short shots are uncomfortable to my ears. My 94 EVO with straight drag pipes are way more comfortable on the ears and gives a pleasant rumble that even the wife loves.

[@umarkedreturn8776]

I have a twin cam 88 all stock 2003 Road King FI. Only change is a less restrictive air filter and not the K&N or Air Hog type. I have been trying to find the *sound* for years. Tried many different slip ons over the years too. Rinehart 3 and 4 inch, RCX 4 inch, Screaming Eagle (whatever size those are), punched out stock pipes (did nothing for sound AND performance--don't do it). So a shop I frequent suggested Vance & Hines slash cut, double sleeved-look exit. THAT is the sound I was looking for. Riding 53 years and 45 bikes total. The performance went up. Now, instead of 65mph in 5th and struggling, the bike is now running WAY better and sounds the way I want it to boot! It will top out at nearly 110+ now. Engine runs just fine with just a slight pop down long hills. But by far the best modification I ever did, was to eliminate the right rear, right side exit pipe that comes out of the rear head that ties into the front header pipe, right near the oil fill area. I made my own true dual exhaust system. Running that way for the last 2000 miles. Cleaned up that area, and made filling and checking the oil much less of a hassle with that pipe out of the way. Now the exhaust sound is out of both sides equally. I can hear the difference. The bike pulls hard in all gears. And now I can feel the difference in the performance.

[@GixxerFoo]

Nothing better than getting that sound you're after, not to mention the performance gains too!

[@chrismartin6544]

Love my Thunderheader.

[@GixxerFoo]

To me that's one of the best two into ones ever made for the Harley.

[@stevenwood6592]

i have 1 on m85 fxrt love it

[@robertglancy4474]

I bought my 2012 Road King about 4 yrs ago and it still had the stock head pipe on it along with some V&H twin slash rounds installed by the previous owner. Once I got it I took off the stock head pipe and put on a Cobra power dual head pipe with the slash rounds. Ran it that way for awhile and decided I wanted to try V&H true duals. Then decided I wanted to put on the mufflers of my choice and first went with DNA Megaphones. After about 4 rides decided they weren't for me, just to obnoxious for my taste, luckily they were cheap...lol. Just put on a set of Cobra Neighbor haters, which was actually my first choice, remapped with my FP3 and......I love them....this is the way a harley should sound and it has good power for a Stage 1 engine. I think the debate is finally over me...at least my wallet is hoping it is...lol

[@dynaordie8083]

HPI inc 2 into 1..... best sound, performance and shes a nice lookin pipe too. Great video, well done.

[@GixxerFoo]

Much appreciated! HPI is a damn good looking and performing system.

[@richardanderson4916]

I learn something new every time I watch your videos

[@KMaC-wt9lr]

I see that the shelf is still holding up... 😁

[@GixxerFoo]

Still there, trying to get my wife to fix it. I turn wrenches, she is the carpenter.

[@KenjiPN]

I’ve been saving for a while to change the stock that came on my lowrider so this video helped a lot. Thanks.

[@GixxerFoo]

The exhaust aren't cheap anymore then you gotta get a tuner and I highly recommend an open air cleaner. You get that exhaust on, you'll get some sound but you tune with a aftermarket tune for the exhaust you will see a huge difference!

[@SaddleTrampTV]

Very informative, Mike. Enjoyed this one. I've always wondered what the crossover was for on a 2 into 2. That's how my softail and electraglide are set up. Love the way the softail sounds with it. It has the stock 2 into 2 system with Screamin Eagle slip ons. It performs well with it too just like you said. Thanks for posting this.

[@GixxerFoo]

Glad it was helpful! Harley learned people didn't like the crossover across the motor so they started hiding them. Your Softail has the SE slip-ons from back when they were a real performance exhaust! The ones today aren't much more sound than stock and they have cats in them, they are great for torque but don't do much more horsepower today.

[@bobhoffman5581]

@@GixxerFoo Having a deer run into my '05 FLHRS on the left side right behind the front tire, spin around and smack my SE slip on that's on that side broke the baffle inside of it. Started it up recently, after sitting for too long to admit, (too long of a sad tale to tell!) and fiberglass was blowing out the back. Rush makes replacements for my bike, but a Vance & Hines Pro Pipe (love the looks and sound of them) is going on, when its S&S 111 mill is installed... lol

[@joeplem5329]

Running the V&H big radius 2 into 2, not the best choice for my 110 tire shredder street bob but it looks amazing and has a much deeper thump when idling.

[@GixxerFoo]

I imagine that 110 sounds bad ass with those pipes and the cams the kit uses!

[@tomedwards3814]

Exhaust baffle design and length will dictate a portion of flow, reversion and tone of the exhaust. Size and length of the pipes make up the rest.

[@kpnomad7]

Recent, I did 4.5 slip on and tried bassani crossover block off, torque was better but I found oem 2 slip on was better overall , then added dk torque insert on right and extra backpressure smoothed accel thru entire curve! For warranty i kept oem head pipe w cat!

[@GixxerFoo]

For me I can swap exhaust and run it all day long on the dyno and get the best numbers, but when you have your butt in the seat the feel doesn't match the graph. Feel, look and sound of the bike is where it counts!

[@genekelley7579]

🛑🛑 Great Video Gix👍 I think largest gain you can accomplish on a touring bike, is to get rid of the “Cat” and let the motor breath and perform like it can💯. On my 2016 CVO Limited, I went with S&S Power Tuned Duels, with Rinehart 4” Mufflers. Great Sound and Power Numbers👍 Keep That Great Content Coming😀👍

[@GixxerFoo]

I like it! The cat placement in the head pipe is awful, I can't believe they let bikes out of the factory like that.

[@genekelley7579]

@@GixxerFoo That Cat is Hot, and Robs Power.

[@genekelley7579]

@@GixxerFoo The part I can’t believe goes out of the factory, is the cylinder breather line, that dumps back into the air intake. That set up is “hokie”👎

[@leonardstanford1877]

Glad it feeling better ! I have 2 friends that run dynos one of which did all the dyno work for Rush exhaust back in 05 he had a customer that had Rush slip-on's & decided to go to a 2 into one he bought a VH pro pipe when they dynoed the bike they lost 9 HP VH told them they needed the competition baffle they gained back only 6 HP they eventually put a thunderheader on & gained 5 HP over the slip ons ! But you are correct on everything you said ! Drag pipes belong on the drag strip stock header pipes with slip ons or the best 2 into 1 ( Thunderheader ) on the street !

[@GixxerFoo]

In haven't seen many good things at all with the Vance & Hines competition series 2 into 1. Hammer performance tested one too and they had better power with cheap slip ons. I was truly shocked that pipe doesn't perform better.

[@ozziejim8472]

Currently running Cobra staggered old-school-look on my evo and the sound is fantastic......with baffles! Cheers Gix

[@GixxerFoo]

Very nice! Those gotta sound really good on an Evo!

[@carthrasher8022]

Great video. 2008 Ultra. S & S easy start 551s. Arlen ness big sucker w/ a tune. Icing on cake was a Rush 2-1 exhaust w/ 2.25 " baffle, "stepped" headed pipe. Great sound. 99 hp/100 ft. lbs. torque. Bought the pipe used. Got the low/mid range grunt was looking for. Keep up the good work.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I appreciate it! Sounds like you have one hell of a build, those are some really good numbers!

[@TheXcr800dude]

I like the looks of 2 into 2. It is the best way to kill performance. 2 into 1 is the best all around. My boss has a m8 Road Glide with a 2 into 1. Has a fake left side muffler.

[@flhdrvr]

ThunderHeader on my 79' Big Twin( they only go back to 80') w/ 93ci S&S Shovelhead long block, Wha...... (bike was the jig) got it one off( find another), worked it around the nose cone...

[@boomerguy9935]

Your shelf is still sagging. I can't take my eyes off it, waiting for everything to fall. Please add a support!!!!!!

[@GixxerFoo]

My wife just told me we are going to the hardware store today so she can get what she needs to fix it. Lol I turn the wrenches but she is a carpenter.

[@ericgabriel4190]

@@GixxerFoo if you can turn a wrench you can turn a screw to install a shelf bracket.

[@ranchurdhimster4955]

@@ericgabriel4190 He just explained it man.

[@weldermike7017]

@@GixxerFoo Haha I was staring at it too lol, great vid thanks!

[@guins99]

@@ericgabriel4190 if you can dodge a wrench, you can dodge a ball

[@mr.bentwrench5459]

With my 2009 softtail when she was new. I took a long drill bit drilled 6 holes in a circle. Then I took a long drift and popped it out and it sounded better than anyone else's bike I ride with. Some of my friends have forgone putting on fancy pipes and did what I did to the factory pipes.

[@GixxerFoo]

You can make a nice exhaust out of the stock unit with a little work into it.

[@gdubbsmotolife9713]

The big tradeoff: classic sound vs greater performance. Currently rolling VH short pro pipe (2-1) and getting used to the sound. The power gain is noticeable from stock header w/ SE slipons.

[@GixxerFoo]

There's always that catch with everything, have to give something up for something.

[@timothygallagher5708]

I have a 2012 Electra Glide Ultra Limited, with factory headers. I put on a set of SharkRoad slip-ons. I absolutely love the sound, and it only cost about $200, from Amazon. The sound is a great low rumble, about 50% louder than stock pipes.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thanks for sharing! I've been looking at those myself wondering how they sound, is the finish pretty good on them?

[@timothygallagher5708]

I went with the 4.4” megaphone in black. The headers are covered with a chrome plate. The finish is great, but hidden mostly by the saddlebags.

[@timothygallagher5708]

The rumble at idle shakes the house, from the driveway. 😆

[@mikeogden5256]

Two into one ☝️

[@GixxerFoo]

Can't beat it for all out performance!

[@brucesaunders3075]

I went with V&H Dresser Duals head pipe, and V&H slash cut oval mufflers on my 2014 street glide special. Pretty happy with this set up.

[@GixxerFoo]

V&H makes a nice head pipe, plus they have an awesome selection of mufflers to pair it with. Can't go wrong with V&H dresser exhaust systems!

[@brucesaunders3075]

@@GixxerFoo , Keep up the good content! I like your videos! 👊

[@a.j.vonregensburg2498]

This like taking Suzuki advise from a guy called DYNAfoo with Harley parts hanging on his wall

[@GixxerFoo]

Right?! I've rode just about every brand out there, Harleys just been the one I've always stuck with.

[@Rif_Leman]

'91 Fatboy Shotgun drag pipes on my '84 and '99 model EVO Softails. They make me happy.

[@bertmacdonald337]

Keep your hands still ffs!

[@GixxerFoo]

I almost think it might be a silent movie 😬

[@garylink1723]

Bought my first D&D fatcat, louvered baffle, 6 years ago. I’ll never go with another manufacturer! D&D for life.

[@GixxerFoo]

Fatcats a bad ass system, they are hard to get since they are so damn good. Seems like they are always on back order.

[@garylink1723]

@@GixxerFoo Cycle Solutions has them in stock, also where I buy my exhaust.

[@scrumthebum2451]

Actually drag pipes have decent bottom end it’s the midrange that is horrible on the street. Just put a lollipops in and bang you have tunable exhaust 🤩 www.nightrider.com/biketech/exhaust.htm

[@chermiller8369]

i have used a lollipop in v&h big radius 2-2 on 07 night train. now have 2016 fatboy s. basanni radial sweepers with a 1" washer on a 3/16 bolt. in my opinion it works well. having the bike dyno tuned with the baffles and then going to add the lollipop. talked with a guy at dk customs and was going to buy the tti but he mentioned it honestly wasn't that much better than homemade so i just got a big washer for my project he did say the bigger the washer without inhibiting exhaust was best. i may try bigger washer after this.

[@scrumthebum2451]

@@chermiller8369 Thunder monster baffles for 1-3/4 drag pipes use 3/4” outer diameter 5/8 “ID

[@snakebite6511]

Good video! On my 2009 Rocker C i went V&H Big Radius full exhaust system On my 2014 Wide Glide I went with V&H Side Shots full exhaust system Finally on my 2021 Street Glide I went with Cobra Neighbor Haters and Cobra head pipes Of course all 3 are tuned with Scremin Eagle air cleans except the Wide Glide, for that i went with Performance Machine air cleaner

[@diesel454ss]

So in other words you went with 3 terrible exhaust systems!!! Hahahah

[@snakebite6511]

@@diesel454ss Well that is only your opinion which to me is worthless, but thanks for the input.

[@chopperking007]

Can not take a man serious with a shelf like that...

[@keithw1966]

Don't be selfish. 😂

[@keithw1966]

Never mind

[@SPMiller]

Ever hear about that one guy. That's you.

[@bradballard2068]

Glad to see you're feeling better. I'm happy with the s&s header and Big Louie by Rush. It's got a deep throaty sound when you run through the gears but quiet when you're at a standstill idling.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you!

[@bradballard2068]

@@GixxerFoo you're too young to be sick ✌️😂. Question ? I was wondering if you would do a video on suspensions. I thought I've been through all your videos but don't recall seeing one. and I was wondering what your thoughts are on the SOX shocks. I'm considering running them on the rear of my RG

[@dhe4642]

Thank you for the very clear content, even as a non-native English speaker, I can understand your words well

[@GixxerFoo]

You are welcome! Thank you for the support, I am very happy to hear that and I hope the information is helpful!

[@georgeveneziano2754]

Thats what i did 2001 EG samson headers rineharts slip ons wrks well great video thank you

[@gregranlett8408]

Great video, Gixxer! I'm going back and viewing all of your old videos, and I wish I had known some of the stuff you talked about in this one before I bought my last exhaust system.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you! I appreciate the support! There's quite a bit involved in exhaust systems.

[@theosid5099]

i have Vance and Hines twin slash slip-ons and a stage 2 Arlen Ness big sucker. very very happy with sound and power

[@GixxerFoo]

I run the twin slash myself, my wife does too. We're really happy with the sound and performance.

[@vonsamson2209]

My 2000 fatboy D and D fatcat exhaust my 2018 street glide special tormentor 2 into 1 into 2 with tab performance mufflers with zombie baffles. Both exhaust systems sound awesome fatcat is 2 into 1.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's one heck of a exhaust setup!

[@edwardmonteith7318]

Thanks for the info. I was only going to add slip-ons to my '15 Ultra Limited, but now I'll be getting a set of head pipes as well.

[@GixxerFoo]

You'll notice a huge difference in the heat you feel off the bike, Harley had some very bad placement on the cat.

[@martinwall7297]

2-1 I've run rev-tec-Vance & Hines-stock Harley-thunder header.- 2-2 Vance & Hines,true duals.cycle shack, python, Samson, straight pipes, stock Harley. this is on a variety of different engines. they all sound and do different things. ex: low end, top-end, mid-range, and a combination of all. to date, I have a thunder header on my twin-cam, great all-around performance, but loud for touring. on my shovel stock header wt. cycle shack slip-on fishtails. both ex. are an improvement over stock wt carb or injector tuning. The worst exhaust was straight pipes as you pointed out and this is on a Panhead, shovel, evo, twin-cam, at best my early shovel ran ok with them. as you said equal back pressure is important and healthy for a non-race-track bike. overall 2-1 ran best even Harleys. tks keep-em coming.

[@GixxerFoo]

That thunder header is loud but it's been around forever and on the dyno that's been the exhaust that really got some power out the twin cam.

[@kondoc7853]

Well. I hope I did not make a bad decision. I just bought the Rinehart xtreme true dual and high flow air cleaner for my 2012 road glide ultra. It's getting put on and tuned this winter. Will see how I like it in the fall

[@GixxerFoo]

That's a great system and it will perform very well, true dual systems are the way to go on a touring bike.

[@kondoc7853]

@@GixxerFoo The xtreme true duals do not have the cross over pipe. Is this going to give me problems?

[@Henry_45_70]

@@kondoc7853 This winter I also plan on putting Rhinehart true duals on my 2013 ultra classic with blacktip mufflers.

[@zanegrey4364]

Screamin seagull 16 gauge double barrel are my favourite. I have them on my night train.

[@GixxerFoo]

You've got some of the Screamin Eagle exhaust from when they were a real performance exhaust, not they have cats and they aren't much over stock. Better than stock but not all out performance like they once were.

[@theodavies8754]

I've got Vance and Hines straight shots with quiet baffles. Stock dyna TC 88 headers and a big sucker. The fueling 525 along with CV carb is freaking loud. Even with earplugs and full face my ears ring for days just rolling the throttle on up any slope. The super quiet baffles don't work with fueling 525. Might have to get some SE slash cut to get through an MOT here in the UK. Had SE straight through shorties on my EVO that were nothing like as loud, if the baffles were easy to take out without destroying the packing I'd give loud baffles a run around the block just to know how it runs with them.

[@GixxerFoo]

If you go with no baffles or race baffles you lose in the bottom end and mid range but make it up on top. The difference down low is noticable but you don't pick up anything dramatic on top. I personally prefer something in the mid, quiet baffles are plenty for me to be honest. The older I get I want a touch above the Screamin Eagle Street Cannons.

[@theodavies8754]

​@GixxerFoo got an mot with quiet baffles. Terrible image quality short on my channel. Runs well off the clock now but takes a lot of hanging on with buckhorns and forward controls.

[@josephcivita1450]

I have a build motor in my Road King. I run a 2 into 1 Supertrap and it makes great power.

[@johnbingaman3645]

With straight pipes I had a modified 1200 Sportster it would foul a plug on the cold startup it had an S&S e about every other time I would foul a plug ,I drilled the back of the pipes and put a quarter inch screw and nut and lock washer about 3/4 of an inch sticking up in the end of the pipe, both pipes lt, gave me lots of more torque more horse and never fouled a plug again just by doing that, and a lot cheaper and easier than torque cones ,,,! and it changed the sound of the pipe and took that crackling sound out between shifts out,,,, just like you said the exhaust gases go back into the cylinder head and I believe that's what caused the spark plug fouling that's only on straight pipes!!!,At 3800 RPMs the bike wood bog I always had a drop a gear to get over that low torque curve...

[@GixxerFoo]

That's a really good old school trick, not a lot of people know you can do that!

[@kerrylewis2581]

I have the S&S power tune dual header with their SPO mufflers on my modified 103 ultra. Sounds like a seventies big block. Nice rumble with incredible torque off idle. Great for a two-up heavy bagger that you can ride all day and still talk without screaming at each other.

[@GixxerFoo]

Very cool! I've heard that system before and it's got very deep sound to it!

[@aaronbrown5252]

I just put these headers on my 09 RK with Screamin Eagle Street Cannons and couldn't be happier. I added the high flow air cleaner and a V&H FP3 and she runs like a top! A definite improvement over the true duals that were on it and no high flow air cleaner.

[@tphvictims5101]

I’m time traveling (looking at older videos) and binge watching your videos 👍🏻 Your videos are very matter of fact. Great videos. You come across very well.

[@GixxerFoo]

Thank you, I appreciate it!

[@Whiskeybende]

I like what you said about the factory headpipes. My 08 Eglide did very well with Rinehart slip-ons. The I put a true dual (no crosspipe) and lost a lot of power! Huge mistake! I'm a 2-1 guy all the way!

[@B2lazy]

I’m running stock HD header , cat remove & I removed the baffle’s but it’s just my local bar hopper.

[@philvale5724]

Hi 👋, great territorial, I used to have a Softail DEUCE 1999, 1450 , but I gave it a upgrade 1550 cams oil pump ignition module. And of course 2-1 exhaust system, BOOM CAN , I think it was made by D D , the wording around my registration plate was, loud and proud , I kept the baffle inside it, but you can still see straight through it, I do not know the reason why ha ha, but when you read it up and hit the ignition switch on and off you had a flying come out the best part of 4 foot, I used to live in the UK I was the only person outside of the US that has a set, They sounded amazing and very good performance , RIDE SAFE GUYS AND GIRLS, PHIL FROM THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOULIN FRANCE,

[@johnbingaman3645]

Years ago Jerry Branch of California put out a book he tested 10 exhaust systems for performance the top one was drag pipes, on a modified engine wide open Drag Race, just like you said!!! wide open... Ultimate performance, they're all in drag strips no baffles there, the second one was the thunderheader top performer, the third was the Kirker exhaust system if you can find them, all the rest were good street performers somewhere very low in power, the book showed you the horse powers and torque's curves.... definitely do some research

[@GixxerFoo]

Kerker exhaust, I don't even know if they are still around these days. ThunderHeader is, that's a excellent system no matter what Harley you ride. Hammer had really good numbers with those on Sportsters using their big bore kits.

[@johnbingaman3645]

@@GixxerFoo yeah the reverse cone on the rich product thunderheader is a super good pipe, Cycle Shack have very good horsepower ratings inexpensive really great pipes too but they're out, Hooker Header also, and python threes, but the good guys are gone Rich products are expensive as 650 bucks or so of pipe

[@ghostdog1874]

@@GixxerFoo I have a brand new kerker 2-1 kit for my hammer sportster , I haven’t taken the Vance and Hines short shots off yet and installed the kerker. I got the kerker system from lowbrow customs not to long ago . It’s all black and looks great . U can get it in chrome as well .

[@Liveharley1]

I have Vance and Hines headers with a set a screaming eagle slip-on, I enjoyed the video, thanks

[@GixxerFoo]

Very nice! I like aftermarket headers with the screamin eagle exhaust, they sound good and perform very well!

[@pigpen1958]

been running 1 3/4drag pipes on my 89 springer and hey work quite well on it but then they are not the short versions and have slip in baffles

[@stevewehner9540]

Hi Mike I chose the Sharkroad slipons for my new softail. They sound similar to Tabs and look like Basani while staying at 3.5" in diameter so I've lost nothing but the backpressure

[@GixxerFoo]

That's awesome! I've seen those for sale and they are really decently priced, they sound really good in the videos I've watched. There's a lot to be said for slip-ons with the factory header, they perform really well honestly.

[@vancedyer755]

D&D Fat Cat 2 into 1, Best pipe I ever had and still do on my ride.

[@ronvance1627]

I have a 2003 Road King TC88. Currently has the stock exhaust, with that Y pipe off the back jug. That thing has cracked and been replaced twice in the 13 years I have had it. I have always wanted the true dual exhaust that has removes the Y and puts a bend there so the left side still looks the same and now I'm in a position where I can buy them and I'm looking at the Cobra 6250. I've heard mixed reviews, for example good reviews saying that the true dual on that year model adds power, and bad reviews saying with that bend being right off the rear jug it screws with the airflow and robs power, so I'm not sure which to believe. I feel like I got some good info off this video with respect to true dual exhausts, and since I'm on my third Y pipe, I think it makes sense, if for no other reason than to get rid of that Y pipe.

[@GixxerFoo]

The new head pipe systems with the hidden cross over work very well and they are pretty strong!

[@davebarnes6672]

Exhaust systems can cause some head scratching. I have two bikes, both have Vance and Hines pipes , though they are two different styles, they are similar diameters and length. On my 2012 Fatboy Lo, the fatty is louder and deeper at idle than my Yamaha VStar 1100 which has a low quiet thump at idle, However at throttle and Hwy speed the Exhaust on the Yamaha are like huge trumpets that will shorten your ride should you forget the earplugs but as I said very docile at Idle. My Fatboy sounds great at idle and also sounds great at any speed. One other big difference in the exhaust is the Harley has a crossover, the VStar does not. While my Fatboy is stock at this point and fuel injected, the Yamaha is carbureted and rejetted and also sports a Kuryakin hypercharger with an open K and N air filter. Maybe that’s the difference. I have owned the Yamaha longer and over time have made these improvements . The Fatboy is my dream bike that I have not owned as long and has been a long time coming but I say better late than never. For a long time I thought I would never be able to afford one of these bikes. The Yamaha was a fill in for what I really wanted-Great Vlog!

[@rooter_glide9181]

That shelf behind you needs some attention!!! LOL, Nice video and helpful! Thanks

[@GixxerFoo]

Thanks for watching! Lol sometimes I think that shelf made the channel grow, it's been replaced to much delight and dismay at the same time.

[@WayneSmith-zx3tf]

If you want performance, get a two into one with stepped headers and a V&H tuner.

[@caregiver7751]

I think it's a individual choice in what you feel sounds good. My personal preference is crossovers.

[@GixxerFoo]

That's the whole thing about exhaust is personal choice. What may be the absolute best performance exhaust on the dyno doesn't mean crap if you don't like the look and sound.

[@dylandream2248]

Long or short drag pipes are meant for what there named the drag strip. Drag pipes create the infamous “drag pipe sag” or exhaust gas reversion. Unless your using your bike on the strip best place for drag pipes are in the local BFI bin

[@GixxerFoo]

The work great at wide open throttle but nothing else.

[@magnuspym]

Finding your channel packed with excellent, useful information. Thanks!

[@GixxerFoo]

Glad to hear it!

[@toben42]

Vance and hines big shot staggered.👍 Best of both worlds.

[@GixxerFoo]

Love the big shots! You really don't see them much these days sadly.

[@andrewluberto]

I put a screamin eagle engine air cleaner and bassanni sweepers on my HD softail standard 22 and the amount of HP and torque I've gain is insane it sure as heck doesnt feel the same with the stock exhaust.

[@mikef3300]

I have a set of Vance & Hines short shots on my 1995 Harley springer softail. I like the look but even with the baffles installed they are pretty loud. I feel like it’s not as strong in the midrange since installing them. I wonder how installing torque cones would affect the performance?

[@noizee1]

I put Bassani radial sweepers on my FXDLS and ended up yanking the baffles being greedy for that noise. A quick retune for that and i rarely have any decel pops and still have plenty of power for my taste. These are stepped pipes which i assume still help to a degree

[@GixxerFoo]

The stepped pipe really does help, but with no baffles and your not getting decel pop... whatever you did leave it alone now lol. That's gotta be tuned just as close to perfect as can be, I got lucky with my wife's bike that.

[@noizee1]

@@GixxerFoo lol yeah just my FP3 with added decel pop elimination as part of the tune. Haven't changed it since

[@chrish5791]

I think that I’ll save myself some money and keep my stock ‘06 FXDWGI 2 into 2 exhaust and Screaming Eagle slip ons. If I could find the same looks and close to the same sound in an aftermarket exhaust I might consider it, but they seem to be scarce as hen’s teeth. It becoming apparent to me that if I wait a few days after watching your performance videos I can avoid removing all the funds needed for these mods from my wallet, GixerFoo! I’ve got a fan assisted oil cooler, a K&N air cleaner assembly, and a new HD speedo/tach unit for my Wide Glide, but I think I’ll hold off on having the cylinders bored to give me 98 cubes and maybe put in S&S Easy Start cams and a billet machined cam plate and maybe a dyno tune. It’s nice to dream when watching your videos, but I bought my bike to ride and not for it to become a money trap. Maybe if I was 40 years younger I’d have to have all the horses that I could wring out of my bike, but at 68 I’m just enjoying finally having my own Harley to ride. Keep posting your videos and I keep dreaming while I try to keep my wallet from becoming emaciated.