Full System Exhaust Upgrade: My Honest Review & Sound Test
Hey guys! So, I recently upgraded to a full system exhaust on my [mention bike model here], and I've been getting a ton of questions about it. I figured I'd share my experience and try to answer some of the most common things I've been asked. Let's dive into why I made the switch, what the benefits are, and why I'm absolutely loving it so far.
Why I Upgraded to a Full System Exhaust
The decision to upgrade to a full system exhaust wasn't one I took lightly. I spent weeks researching different options, reading reviews, and watching countless videos. Ultimately, there were a few key factors that pushed me to finally pull the trigger. First and foremost, I was looking for a performance boost. My stock exhaust felt a bit restrictive, and I knew there was more potential hiding under the hood (or, in this case, the fairings!). I wanted to unlock some extra horsepower and torque, especially in the mid-range, where I do most of my riding. This is where a full system exhaust really shines, as it replaces the entire exhaust system, from the headers to the muffler, allowing for optimal exhaust flow. Think of it like this: your engine is a breathing machine, and the exhaust is its way of exhaling. A restrictive exhaust is like trying to breathe through a straw, while a free-flowing exhaust lets your engine breathe easily and perform at its best. The promise of enhanced performance was a major draw for me. I envisioned quicker acceleration, a more responsive throttle, and an overall more engaging riding experience. The stock exhaust, while functional, felt like it was holding my bike back, preventing it from reaching its full potential. I wanted to unleash the true power of my engine, and a full system exhaust seemed like the most direct route to achieving that goal. I was tired of feeling like my bike was struggling to keep up, especially on twisty roads and during spirited rides. I yearned for a more exhilarating experience, where I could feel the raw power of the engine and have complete control over its performance. A full system exhaust offered the promise of transforming my bike into a true performance machine, and that was an offer I couldn't refuse. For instance, I often ride with a group of friends, and I found myself constantly pushing the limits of my bike just to keep up. The lack of low-end torque made it difficult to accelerate quickly out of corners, and the restrictive exhaust seemed to choke the engine at higher RPMs. This not only made riding less enjoyable but also potentially less safe, as I had to work harder to maintain a safe distance from the riders in front of me. Upgrading to a full system exhaust felt like the necessary next step to enhance my riding experience and ensure that I could confidently keep pace with my friends on our weekend adventures. I also wanted to enhance the overall aesthetics of my bike. The stock exhaust, while functional, looked a bit bulky and uninspiring. I wanted something sleeker, more aggressive, and that would complement the overall design of my motorcycle. The aftermarket is full of fantastic-looking full system exhausts made from materials like titanium and carbon fiber. These materials not only look great but also offer weight savings compared to the stock steel exhaust. This reduction in weight further contributes to improved performance and handling. Visually, the stock exhaust felt like an afterthought, an ungainly appendage that detracted from the bike's sleek lines and aggressive stance. I longed for an exhaust system that would seamlessly integrate with the overall design, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and adding a touch of personalization. I spent hours browsing online forums and websites, admiring the various aftermarket options and imagining how they would look on my bike. The prospect of transforming my motorcycle from a stock machine to a personalized work of art was incredibly exciting. Aesthetically, a full system exhaust is more than just a performance upgrade; it's a statement of individuality and a reflection of the owner's passion for their motorcycle. It's a chance to showcase your personal style and create a machine that truly stands out from the crowd. For me, the stock exhaust felt like a compromise, a necessary evil that I had to tolerate. Upgrading to a full system exhaust was an opportunity to eliminate that compromise and create a bike that I was truly proud to own and ride.
The Sound Difference: A Symphony of Power
Let's talk about sound, because let's be honest, that's a major part of the appeal. The stock exhaust on most bikes is designed to be relatively quiet, often to meet noise regulations. But a full system exhaust? That's a whole different ballgame! The difference in sound is night and day. The moment I fired up my bike after installing the new exhaust, I was blown away. The deep, throaty rumble replaced the quiet purr of the stock system, and it was music to my ears. The increased volume and the richer tone added a whole new dimension to the riding experience. I felt more connected to the engine, more aware of its power and its responsiveness. But it's not just about the volume. It's about the quality of the sound. A good full system exhaust will produce a deep, resonant tone that's both aggressive and refined. It's a sound that commands attention without being obnoxious. It's a sound that says, "This bike means business." The difference between the stock sound and the aftermarket sound is like comparing a whisper to a roar. The stock exhaust sounds muted and restrained, while the full system exhaust unleashes the full potential of the engine's sound. It's a visceral experience that you can feel in your chest, a symphony of power that reverberates through your body. I remember the first time I rode my bike with the new exhaust through a tunnel. The sound was simply incredible, echoing off the walls and filling the space with a deep, resonant roar. It was a moment that I'll never forget, a testament to the transformative power of a full system exhaust. The improved sound not only enhances the riding experience but also increases safety. A louder exhaust makes you more noticeable to other drivers, which can help prevent accidents. I've noticed that cars are more likely to give me space and avoid cutting me off when they hear the sound of my exhaust. It's like having an extra layer of protection on the road. I even had a friend tell me that he could hear me coming from blocks away, which made it easier for him to spot me in traffic. The increased visibility is a significant benefit that often gets overlooked, but it's an important factor to consider when choosing an exhaust system. Of course, it's important to be mindful of noise regulations and to choose an exhaust that's appropriate for your riding environment. You don't want to be the guy who's waking up the entire neighborhood with your loud exhaust. However, there are plenty of full system exhausts that offer a great sound without being excessively loud. It's all about finding the right balance between performance, sound, and legality. In my opinion, a well-chosen full system exhaust can significantly enhance the riding experience by adding a layer of sensory excitement and improving safety on the road. It's a modification that truly transforms the character of your bike and makes every ride more enjoyable. The sound alone was a massive selling point for me. It just makes the whole riding experience so much more visceral and exciting. I love hearing the engine roar as I accelerate, and the satisfying burble on deceleration is just addictive!
Performance Gains: More Than Just Sound
Okay, so the sound is awesome, but what about performance? This is where a full system exhaust really shines. As I mentioned earlier, the stock exhaust systems are often restrictive to meet emissions standards. A full system exhaust is designed to be much more free-flowing, allowing the engine to breathe more efficiently. This translates to noticeable gains in horsepower and torque, especially in the mid-range. The difference in performance is like night and day. With the stock exhaust, my bike felt a bit sluggish, especially when accelerating from a standstill or overtaking other vehicles. The engine seemed to struggle to reach its full potential, and I often found myself downshifting to maintain speed on inclines. However, with the full system exhaust, the bike feels much more responsive and powerful. The acceleration is noticeably quicker, and the engine pulls strongly throughout the rev range. I no longer have to downshift as often, and I can confidently overtake other vehicles with ease. The increased power and responsiveness have transformed my riding experience, making it more enjoyable and exhilarating. It's like unlocking a hidden reserve of power that was previously unavailable. The free-flowing design of the full system exhaust allows the engine to breathe more freely, resulting in improved combustion efficiency. This means that the engine can burn fuel more completely, extracting more energy from each combustion cycle. The result is increased horsepower and torque, as well as improved fuel economy in some cases. I was surprised to see a slight improvement in my fuel mileage after installing the full system exhaust. While the primary goal was to enhance performance, the added benefit of improved fuel efficiency was a pleasant surprise. It's like getting a little extra out of every tank of gas. The performance gains from a full system exhaust are not just theoretical. They are tangible and noticeable in real-world riding conditions. I've experienced the difference firsthand, and I can confidently say that it's a significant upgrade. The bike feels more powerful, more responsive, and more enjoyable to ride. It's like breathing new life into the engine and unleashing its full potential. I remember the first time I took my bike out on a twisty road after installing the full system exhaust. The difference in handling and performance was immediately apparent. The bike felt lighter and more agile, and the increased power made it easier to accelerate out of corners. I was able to carry more speed through the turns and maintain a smoother, more confident riding style. The full system exhaust transformed my bike from a capable machine into a true performance weapon. The increased horsepower and torque make the bike more fun to ride in all situations, whether you're commuting to work, carving through twisty roads, or hitting the track. The added power makes the bike feel more alive and responsive, and it's a constant source of enjoyment. However, it's important to note that the performance gains from a full system exhaust may vary depending on the bike model and the specific exhaust system. Some bikes respond better to exhaust modifications than others, and some exhaust systems are designed to provide more power at certain RPM ranges than others. It's essential to research your options carefully and choose an exhaust system that's appropriate for your bike and your riding style. I definitely felt a noticeable bump in power and torque. The bike just pulls harder in every gear, and the throttle response is much crisper. It's a blast to ride!
Installation: DIY or Professional?
Okay, let's talk installation. This can be a bit tricky, and it really depends on your mechanical skills and comfort level. Installing a full system exhaust isn't rocket science, but it does involve some wrenching and attention to detail. If you're comfortable working on your bike and have some basic tools, you might be able to tackle the installation yourself. There are plenty of online resources, including videos and forums, that can guide you through the process. However, if you're not confident in your abilities, it's always best to leave it to a professional. A qualified mechanic will have the experience and the tools to install the exhaust correctly, ensuring that it's properly aligned and sealed. Improper installation can lead to leaks, reduced performance, and even damage to your engine. The installation process typically involves removing the old exhaust system, which can sometimes be a bit challenging if the bolts are corroded or seized. You'll then need to carefully install the new exhaust system, ensuring that all the connections are properly tightened and sealed. It's also important to adjust the fuel injection system to compensate for the increased exhaust flow. This may involve installing a fuel controller or having the ECU remapped. Failing to adjust the fuel injection system can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel economy, and even engine damage. If you're planning to install the exhaust yourself, it's essential to have a good set of tools, including a torque wrench, a socket set, and some penetrating oil. You'll also need a safe and stable way to support your bike while you're working on it. A motorcycle stand or a jack is highly recommended. Before you start the installation, it's a good idea to watch some videos and read some articles about the process. This will give you a better understanding of what's involved and help you avoid any potential pitfalls. It's also a good idea to have a friend on hand to help you if you run into any difficulties. Having a second pair of hands can make the job much easier and safer. I decided to have a professional install mine. I'm fairly mechanically inclined, but I wanted to make sure it was done right and that the fuel mapping was properly adjusted. Plus, it saved me a Saturday afternoon in the garage!
Final Thoughts: Worth the Investment?
So, is a full system exhaust worth the investment? In my opinion, absolutely! For me, the combination of improved performance, enhanced sound, and the overall riding experience makes it a worthwhile upgrade. It's transformed my bike from a fun ride into an absolute beast. Of course, it's not a cheap modification. Full system exhausts can be quite expensive, and you'll also need to factor in the cost of installation if you're not doing it yourself. However, if you're looking for a significant upgrade in performance and sound, a full system exhaust is hard to beat. It's an investment in your riding enjoyment and in the overall performance of your bike. The benefits of a full system exhaust extend beyond just performance and sound. It can also improve the resale value of your bike. A well-maintained bike with tasteful modifications is more likely to attract buyers than a stock machine. A full system exhaust is a modification that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, making it a valuable addition to your bike. It's also a modification that shows that you care about your bike and that you're willing to invest in its performance and appearance. This can be a major selling point for potential buyers. However, it's important to choose a reputable brand and a well-designed exhaust system. A poorly designed or cheaply made exhaust system can actually detract from the value of your bike. It's also important to keep the original exhaust system, as some buyers may prefer to revert the bike back to its stock configuration. In addition to the practical benefits, a full system exhaust can also provide a sense of personal satisfaction. It's a modification that you can be proud of, a testament to your passion for motorcycles and your commitment to enhancing your riding experience. It's a modification that will make you smile every time you fire up your bike and hear the roar of the engine. It's an investment in yourself and in your enjoyment of the sport. I have no regrets about making the switch. If you're on the fence, I'd say do your research, weigh the pros and cons, and then go for it! You won't be disappointed. If you're looking to upgrade your bike and want a noticeable improvement in performance and sound, I highly recommend considering a full system exhaust. Just make sure you do your research, choose a reputable brand, and either install it yourself carefully or have a professional do it. You won't regret it! What are your experiences with aftermarket exhausts? Let me know in the comments below!
