writer: Jeff G. Holt, John Mata Jr.
It seems as if one of the first things touring motorcycle enthusiasts do when they get a new ride in their garage is start cruising the Internet or the pages of this very magazine to find ways to make their steed just a little different from all the others that came off the assembly line.
We here at the Baggers World Headquarters get tons of calls and e-mails from Joe Public about all sorts of things that relate to hopping up the myriad of FLs ridden in the real world. Without a doubt, the No. 1 question we receive is regarding aftermarket slip-on mufflers. Which ones are the loudest? The quietest? The shiniest? What about horsepower loss or gain?
The confusion is definitely understood, since there are hundreds of systems to choose from with styles from mild to wild in prices ranging from dirt cheap to downright scary. With all the perplexity aside, we thought we would peak your interests, show you some of the best slip-on mufflers currently offered and let you decide which will best fit your individual taste. Happy hunting!
CFR Motorcycles
CFR Motorcycles delivers the sound and appearance your Harley-Davidson bagger deserves. CFR's black and chrome-plated slip-on mufflers mount directly to your stock header pipes, and their no-baffle setup packs a vicious combination. The first blow comes from the aggressive can styling, while the knockout delivery comes straight from the muffler's mouth. The rumbling, deep exhaust note is surely a victorious growl not to be mistaken while cruising the streets. The CFR slip-on mufflers are compatible with '95-'07 H-D FL models and are available factory direct with a $599.95 price tag.
For more information, call (714) 528-4961, or visit www.cfrmotorcycles.com.
Samson
Samson is a hands-down heavy hitter in the exhaust game, and it is never a surprise to see their name etched into the pipes of the loudest bike on the block. Samson's Rolled Thunder miter-cut oval slip-ons boast quadruple chrome-plated muffler metal. They also feature a 3-inch pipe diameter, stationary baffle and an intimidating tone that will frighten any tailgater who dares to nip at your tips. Samson's Rolled Thunder line includes a variety of muffler cuts to better complement your bike's appearance. Hook up your '95-and-newer dresser or Road King model with Samson mufflers-get loud and get looks for only $459.94.
For more information, call (888) 572-6722, or visit www.samsonusa.com.
Vance & Hines
Vance & Hines offers an eye-appealing, tapered slash-cut muffler with great performance features. The chrome-plated slip-on includes a stationary baffle and will mount to any '95-'08 touring model. A fully heat-shielded system promotes an extended blue-proof shine and proper tuning for the many years and miles ahead. Vance & Hines recommends their Fuelpak, a fuel management system that creates a better air/fuel ratio, to further enhance their performance exhaust systems. Purchase these mufflers factory direct for only $370.
For more information, call (562) 921-7461, or visit www.vanceandhines.com.
Bassani
Bassani always offers edgy and take-notice exhaust products, and their scallop-cut mufflers are no exception. The massive 4-inch diameter of Bassani's chrome-plated slip-ons will definitely attract more attention and add rumble to your ride. The mufflers also feature tunable/replaceable baffles, which allow you to reach a custom, ear-pleasing exhaust note. Add a bit of bite to your bagger's bark for only $469.
For more information, call (888) 903-5566, or visit www.bassanipipes.com.
Wild Pig Pipes
Wild Pig Pipes offers four variations of slip-ons, one style being these sharp, angle-cut mufflers. The pipes are expertly chrome-plated and come equipped with a removable baffle, which can be replaced with any of the five different baffle styles that Wild Pig Pipes produces. The pipe measures 3 1/2 inches in diameter and fits '95-'08 H-D dresser or Road King models. We are sure you will find WPP's deep, mellow sound easy on your ears and your wallet as well. Suggested retail on WPP's mufflers is $225-no excuses for not buying a set. Contact for dealer information.
For more information, call (888) 246-6766, or visit www.wildpigpipes.com.