Pipes

[gadget]

I was thinking of changing to different pipes. I am looking for a little more power and some rumble. Any suggestions?

[ells]

You can start here.

http://www.kawanow.org/faq.htm#A1.6

This, and slight variations in methodology are quite popular with this group. Increases volume slightly and lowers the rumble to a more pleasing level, according to some. Have been several treads on the topic, sometimes called a bafflectomy. Others prefer to change out pipes and will probably check in.

[nighthawk11]

I use the Cobra duals slashdown pipes. Mine came with baffles installed. They're not loud at all, but give the 'Nad a nice rumble when at speed, and a good growl when I really get on the gas.

[watchman]

The Vance and Hines Baggers are a little louder than the Cobra's. Installing a set of aftermarket pipes are a lot faster than doing the baffle mod. The baffle mod is a lot cheaper. To get more power you really need to get rid of the Goat Belly ( pre-Muffler) under the bike between the pipes.

[samkjr]

I'm a teacher so I got tons of free time on my hands right now. Whenever someone says a project will take me a couple hours. I kow it will be an all day affair for ME.
Does the baffectomy give any better performance / airflow or is purely just to change sound?

[lw]

sam, the bafflectomy took all of a half hour tops, and improved sound but not performance (your actual mileage may vary, some assembly required, offer only valid on 5th Tuesdays in February, objects in mirror are closer than they appear)

[VulcanE]

IMO, I like the sound of the Vance & Hines better, The Cobra Head pipes look better, But if your looking for power increase, you'll have to modify the intake system.

[samkjr]

Well gadget has a very clearly defined procedure for it and several people seem to enjoy. Would I rather have some V&H or baggers? Of course! But If the bafflectomy wil buy me some happiness for a while at a much cheaper price, I might as well do it. I will one day this week I think.

Last question on the topic, on my part any ways. I have the 2 year plus additional 4 good times warranty. Will this screw that up at all? Obviously if i screw up the exhaust, the will not replace it. But if I have some seemingly unrelated engine problem later on will the give me hell about it?

[VulcanE]

A friend of mine (with an'06 Nomad and 4 year extended warranty) had the Vance & Hines baggars, the power commander III, and the Kuryakyn hyper charger installed before he picked up his bike for the first time, and it's still covered under the warranty. My warranty has alreadt expired, but I did carry it in for a coolant leak while it was under warranty, and they fixed it, no questions.

[jstapleton]

would changing the pipes and not putting in a power commander cause the bike to run rich?

Joe