Installing an aftermarket exhaust system on a motorcycle is a very popular modification among motorcycle freaks. It not only increases the performance of the motorcycle to some extent, but also has several other advantages and disadvantages. So, before using an aftermarket exhaust system instead of the factory-stock exhaust system on a motorcycle, these aspects must be taken into consideration. Let’s learn about the advantages and disadvantages of using an aftermarket exhaust system on a motorcycle today.
Aftermarket Exhaust System on Motorcycle
Most motorcycle riders want their motorcycles to look attractive and be in top-performing condition. Many riders also want to upgrade the performance of their motorcycles. In such cases, installing an aftermarket performance exhaust system instead of the stock exhaust system on the motorcycle is a very easy type of performance upgrade that also looks quite nice. However, there are several advantages and disadvantages to this modification, and we have highlighted them here today..
Advantages of using an aftermarket exhaust system on a motorcycle
Increases the performance of the motorcycle
One of the main attractions of installing an aftermarket exhaust system on a motorcycle is that it significantly increases the overall performance of the motorcycle. A well-designed aftermarket exhaust reduces the exhaust backpressure of the motorcycle engine and ensures the free flow of exhaust gases. This way, the horsepower and torque delivery of the engine increases slightly, and at the same time, quite good throttle response is also obtained. And the rides become more enjoyable due to quick acceleration and excellent top-end response.
Reduces overall weight
The stock exhaust system of a motorcycle is usually quite heavy in weight. Because, stock exhausts have to be within the specific automotive regulations in terms of design, construction, material selection, etc. and also have to be cost-effective. On the other hand, aftermarket exhausts are usually made from premium materials like titanium, carbon fiber or aluminum. And these exhausts are designed with only a focus on performance. Therefore, they are quite light in weight, which has a direct and indirect impact on the overall performance of the motorcycle by reducing the overall weight.
Exhaust improves sound
The sound of a motorcycle’s engine and exhaust is a significant part of the entire riding experience. Aftermarket exhausts can create a very heavy and loud exhaust note, which many riders find more pleasant than the muffled note of the stock exhaust. Therefore, many riders use aftermarket exhaust systems on their motorcycles simply to improve the exhaust note.
Increases Fuel Efficiency
A properly designed quality aftermarket exhaust system can significantly increase the fuel efficiency of a motorcycle under standard riding conditions. As a result, fuel economy increases when riding in mid-RPM conditions. This is because a properly designed aftermarket exhaust system reduces engine backpressure by unobstructing the exhaust gas flow and increases intake efficiency. In this way, engine breathing is unobstructed, ensuring good fuel efficiency under standard riding conditions.
Increases Styling Features
Aftermarket exhaust systems for motorcycles are usually available in a variety of attractive designs, finishes, and features. As a result, riders can customize the look of their motorcycle as per their preferences, tastes, and needs, while increasing its performance. And there is also the sporty sound enhancement of the motorcycle.
Disadvantages of using aftermarket exhaust systems on motorcycles
Legal regulation issues
A major disadvantage of aftermarket exhaust systems on motorcycles is that they produce quite a lot of noise and often emit emissions above the recommended levels. As a result, aftermarket exhaust modifications on motorcycles are legally illegal in many parts of the world. As a result, installing an aftermarket exhaust system on a motorcycle in those parts can result in fines.Motorcycles
Warranty issues
Motorcycle manufacturers design, test, and qualify their motorcycles based on certain standards and regulations. As a result, the official warranty of a motorcycle is associated with the standard exhaust setup. Therefore, installing an aftermarket exhaust system in place of the factory-stock exhaust system on a motorcycle naturally voids the motorcycle’s warranty.
Potential Engine Damage
Aftermarket exhausts are structurally designed to significantly reduce the backpressure of the exhaust gas and allow the exhaust gas to flow freely from the engine. As a result, the engine’s breathing performance increases and the various parts related to the combustion chamber, such as the exhaust valves and other related parts, work freely and faster. As a result, some additional stress is placed on these.
Moreover, incorrect installation, improper tuning, or incompatible design of aftermarket exhausts can cause damage to the motorcycle engine in various ways. And it is also true that aftermarket exhausts are primarily designed for performance, not to ensure engine durability. So here, the durability of the engine is definitely compromised.
Increased noise and emissions
Aftermarket exhaust systems for motorcycles generally produce a much louder sound than the factory-stock setup. Some riders may find this sound quite pleasant. But in general, it is quite inconvenient and annoying for everyone else, which is considered a serious noise pollution. Also, the emission level of aftermarket exhausts is much higher than the stock exhaust system. So these are not very environmentally friendly.
Impact on engine tuning
Aftermarket exhaust installation in most cases has some effect on the air-fuel ratio of the motorcycle engine. Therefore, after exhaust installation, some additional modifications may be required to ensure smooth engine operation and optimum performance and to prevent possible damage. As well as professional help may be required to tune the entire setup.
Additional and unreasonable costs
A quality aftermarket exhaust system is always quite expensive. Moreover, upgrading a motorcycle to an aftermarket exhaust system also involves a lot of money for ECU or intake system upgrades, installation, adjustments, modifications, tuning, and supporting parts. On the other hand, using a cheap exhaust system can also cost money to repair other damages later. As a result, aftermarket exhaust installation is clearly associated with a considerable amount of money.
So this was a general discussion of the various advantages and disadvantages of using an aftermarket exhaust system on a motorcycle. So, while using an aftermarket exhaust system on a motorcycle has various advantages such as increasing performance, reducing weight, improving sound quality, or enhancing style, it also has several disadvantages, which cannot be ignored. And often, its use is illegal in many countries. Therefore, these things should be considered seriously before using an aftermarket exhaust system on a motorcycle.
