Let’s be honest - we’ve all been there. Whether it’s the crisp bark of a Ducati’s Termignoni exhaust, some gold anodised Gilles rear sets or a carbon fibre hugger, most bike nuts drool over tasty performance parts.
As with any accessorising, however, it pays to be able to return the bike to standard when you sell. Taste is a very individual matter. The main thing to watch out for with performance equipment is ensuring it is properly fitted. You can’t beat getting it done professionally.
Bikers worldwide spend a fortune on aftermarket exhaust systems. It is the modification most likely to be made to any motorcycle. Reasons include the sound, the weight saving over standard, potentially better throttle response and more power.
Now, anyone who has a litre sports bike on the road and says they need a bit more power is a liar. Or a TT winner. Still, a fruity exhaust note and less weight can make your bike nicer to ride.
If you want nicer throttle response, though, you’ll probably need an ECU override and a session on your nearest dynamometer.
Just be sure your bike will pass noise tests at the WOF or at certain track day venues. Also, don’t annoy the neighbours - that’s on behalf of all of us, okay?
You’ll never get the best out of an aftermarket exhaust unless you adjust the bike’s fuelling or carburation to suit. With an aftermarket ECU ‘override’ or piggy-back system, such as a Power Commander, you’ll need dyno time. Check out which local workshops offer such a service for bikes.
If your optional exhaust is supplied by the manufacturer, they will be able to download and install the correct fuel map at your dealership.
ECU overrides can also be fitted without performance exhausts to adjust fuelling if it is harsh as standard.
Modern bikes’ suspension is great, but nothing beats top-line specialist suspension units. Unless you’re a highly competent mechanic, have these fitted professionally.
With the performance of modern frames, things like aftermarket swing arms are no longer required. Main accessory choices include steering dampers, rear sets and carbon fibre parts such as huggers or engine guards.
All can be fiddly to fit, so employing a professional is the best idea. All it takes is a bit of careless drilling and you could ruin a part or install it insecurely.
