[Image of slimline duals header with baffles for harley touring motorcycles]
Slimline Duals Header with Baffles for Harley Touring: An Ultimate Guide
Hey readers,
Welcome to the ultimate guide to slimline duals headers with baffles for Harley Touring motorcycles. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting to explore the world of Harley customization, this guide has everything you need to know about this essential upgrade.
Why Slimline Duals Headers?
If you’re looking to give your Harley Touring a sleek and aggressive look, slimline duals headers are the way to go. They replace the bulky stock headers with a streamlined design that hugs the engine, accentuating its curves and giving your bike a more refined appearance.
The Benefits of Baffles
While slimline duals headers offer an aesthetic upgrade, adding baffles is a must for both sound and performance. Baffles reduce the exhaust noise, making your ride lessč½and more comfortable for you and your neighbors. They also help improve exhaust flow, resulting in increased horsepower and torque.
Choosing the Right Slimline Duals Header
With a wide variety of slimline duals headers available, choosing the right one for your Harley Touring is crucial. Consider the following factors:
1. Engine size and style: Different headers are designed for specific engine sizes and styles. Make sure you select one that’s compatible with your bike’s engine.
2. Exhaust port size: The headers must match the size of your exhaust ports. Incorrect size can cause leaks and performance issues.
3. Header length: The length of the headers affects exhaust scavenging and power output. Longer headers provide more low-end torque but less high-end power, while shorter headers do the opposite.
Installation and Tuning
Installing slimline duals headers is a fairly straightforward process that can be performed by most experienced mechanics. However, proper tuning is essential to ensure optimal performance. This involves adjusting the fuel injection mapping to compensate for the increased exhaust flow.
Detailed Table Breakdown
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Header size | 1-7/8" or 2" |
| Finish | Chrome, black, or ceramic |
| Baffle type | Removable or fixed |
| Sound level | Reduced by up to 50% |
| Power increase | Up to 10% |
Harley Touring Compatibility
Slimline duals headers are compatible with all Harley Touring models from 1995 to present, including:
- Road King
- Electra Glide
- Ultra Limited
- Street Glide
- Road Glide
Conclusion
Whether you’re a rider seeking a sleek look or a performance enthusiast desiring improved exhaust flow, slimline duals headers with baffles are an excellent upgrade for any Harley Touring motorcycle. With careful selection and proper installation, you can enjoy an enhanced riding experience that combines aesthetics and functionality.
Don’t forget to check out our other articles for more tips and guides on Harley customization, performance upgrades, and maintenance.
FAQ about Slimline Duals Header with Baffles for Harley Touring
1. What is a slimline duals header?
A slimline duals header is a type of exhaust system for Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles that features two separate pipes that run along the bottom of the bike. This design gives the bike a sleeker, more streamlined appearance than traditional exhaust systems.
2. What are baffles?
Baffles are devices that are inserted into the exhaust pipes to help reduce noise levels. They work by breaking up the sound waves and dissipating them, resulting in a quieter exhaust note.
3. What are the benefits of installing a slimline duals header with baffles on my Harley touring motorcycle?
Installing a slimline duals header with baffles can provide several benefits, including:
- Improved performance: The reduced backpressure from the slimline duals header can help improve the performance of your motorcycle, resulting in increased horsepower and torque.
- Enhanced sound: The baffles help to reduce noise levels without sacrificing the throaty exhaust note that is characteristic of Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
- Sleeker appearance: The slimline duals header gives your motorcycle a sleeker, more streamlined appearance than traditional exhaust systems.
4. How difficult is it to install a slimline duals header with baffles?
Installing a slimline duals header with baffles is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed in a few hours with basic tools and mechanical skills. However, it is always recommended to consult with a qualified mechanic if you are not comfortable performing the installation yourself.
5. What is the cost of a slimline duals header with baffles?
The cost of a slimline duals header with baffles will vary depending on the brand, model, and style. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $800 for a complete system.
6. How often should I clean the baffles?
The frequency with which you need to clean the baffles will depend on how often you ride your motorcycle and the conditions in which you ride. However, it is generally recommended to clean the baffles every 5,000 to 10,000 miles.
7. Can I install a slimline duals header with baffles on any Harley touring motorcycle?
Yes, slimline duals headers with baffles are compatible with all Harley-Davidson touring motorcycles from 2017 and up.
8. Will installing a slimline duals header with baffles void my motorcycle’s warranty?
Installing a slimline duals header with baffles will not void your motorcycle’s warranty as long as it is installed correctly.
9. What are some of the best brands of slimline duals headers with baffles?
Some of the best brands of slimline duals headers with baffles include:
- Vance & Hines
- Cobra Exhaust
- Bassani Xhaust
10. Where can I purchase a slimline duals header with baffles?
You can purchase a slimline duals header with baffles from a variety of sources, including:
- Harley-Davidson dealerships
- Motorcycle parts stores
- Online retailers
