Slip-Ons vs. Full System Exhausts
Sportbike owners tend to upgrade a number of stock parts and the first change-out is usually with the exhaust system. This guide is designed to highlight the differences between slip-ons vs. full system exhausts and offer product suggestions.
What we Cover
Exhaust Materials
Both slip-ons and full system exhausts are made from the following materials:
Titanium
- Won't rust
- Distinctive look
- Offers a superior combination of light-weight and strength
- Tend to be the most expensive
- Can be used in the muffler sleeve, end cap, tubing and headers of an exhaust system
Carbon Fiber
- Extremely lightweight and strong
- Used for the sleeve and end-cap of some exhausts
- Instantly recognizable appearance
- Tendency to crack or break in a crash rather than dent
- Internal construction composed of stainless steel or titanium
- Comparable in price to titanium.
Aluminum
- Less expensive than carbon fiber and titanium
- Usually used in the sleeve and end-cap
- Most use stainless steel for the tubing and internal parts
Stainless Steel
- Least expensive
- Heavier than titanium, aluminum and carbon fiber
- Used as a material for the end-cap, muffler sleeve, mid-pipe and headers
- Offers a polished finish and durability that even aluminum can't match
Slip-On Exhaust
The slip-on gives you the biggest bang for your buck. Slip-ons replace the stock muffler of your ride's exhaust system and bolting one on lessens the air flow restriction from the engine. Just about any after-market slip-on is better than the can that comes from the factory.
Upgrading to a slip-on offers some weight reduction, a slight increase in power, but mostly gives your bike a better look and a more aggressive sound.
Slip-On Installation
Installation of a slip-on is generally straightforward and can be completed without the need for special tools. It usually only requires removal of the stock muffler and fitting the slip-on in its place.
Slip-ons generally don't require a trip to the dyno, though it can't hurt and you'll get the most out of your new can with a custom map or re-jetting.
Slip-On Benefits
Upgrading from stock to a slip-on exhaust is a great way to improve your bike on a budget. A slip-on can also be a more cost-effective way to repair a damaged stock exhaust.
Motosport offers a large variety of slip-on exhausts that give you a range of brands, materials and prices to choose from. Here are three of our most popular slip-ons, give us a call and we can help you find the best one for your ride.
Full System Exhausts
Full system exhausts are sold as a complete replacement for your stock exhaust - from header to tailpipe. This change is a significant upgrade compared to a slip-on and gives a noticeable performance but is also the most expensive. A full system exhaust offers the lightest and maximum performance gains for the rider who wants the most from their ride.
Full System Exhaust Benefits
A full system exhaust offers some of the same benefits as a slip-on exhaust: better sound, better looks, but they offer significantly more weight savings and performance gains. For example, a Graves Titanium Low Mount Full System for the 2013 Yamaha R1 is 16.8 pounds lighter than the stock exhaust system.
A full system exhaust offers a larger performance increase over a slip-on. If your goal is a specific look and sound and you want noticeable performance gains - upgrade your exhaust system.
Full System Exhaust Installation
Installation is more involved for a full-system than a slip-on, usually requiring a few hours and more thorough disassembly of your bike. While re-tuning your bike is smart when installing a slip-on exhaust, installing a free-flowing air filter and tuning your bike is strongly recommended if you want to get the most benefit from a full system exhaust.
To make the most of your full-system exhaust upgrade, it is recommended to schedule a visit with a professional tuner. See our Sportbike and Motorcycle Fuel Management Guide for additional information.
Motosport offers a large variety of full system exhausts that give you a range of brands, material options and prices to choose from. Here are three of our most popular but gives us a call and we can help you find the right one for your ride.
Choosing a Motorcycle Exhaust System
MotoSport carries an extensive collection of slip-ons and full system exhausts. See our Exhaust page for all the products we carry. If you want additional help deciding on which system is right for your ride or what product is best please gives us a call 866-677-7338 and chat with a MotoSport gearhead.
