Exhaust Pep Up!

[redwulf]

Hi Gang, (again)
I knew this would be invaluable! My request this time is about improving performance and "note" of the exhaust system. I have a 1981 XS1100H (I believe that is the faired model) and want to improve the exhaust sound and performance. I don't want anything window rattling, but snappy and exciting to hear. Any suggestions?? Also, what about improving the breathing in the carb department while we're at it? I am torn between taking this bike and making it a cruiser (V-Maxish) or "cafe" it. If you have some suggestions please also let me know where might be the best place to find the modified parts. Thank you all again!
redwulf3@juno.com
Take Care,
Mike Sager

[Jerry]

Covers a lot of ground! Frequently the topic of many threads, performance mods always generate some good responses.

Exhaust. Depends on if you want new or used, 4 into 1 or 4 into 2. 4 into 1 systems are generally lighter (only 1 muffler) and are prefered by some because of their sound. Others like the more traditional look of the 4 into 2 style. Jardine and Hooker made both styles and occasionally come up for sale. Mac, generally considered a bit lower in quality, also has both styles and are generally louder. If you want to keep the stock head pipes, fitting aftermarket mufflers can be done. HD take-offs are popular due to low price ($25 - $50 per set) and may give you the sound you are looking for. Some mods to head pipe and brackets may need to be made, so is not a bolt-on option. Note your '81H has a stock factory installed oil coller, one of the few US models to be so equipped. Some systems will not fit your bike because the cooler adapter drops the filter housing a bit lower (1/2 - 3/4 inch) beneath the bike.

Carbs. First, make sure your carbs are clean and in good operating condition. Pull them for cleaning, and check the diaphrams for pinhole leaks. Replacements can get pricy. but small leaks can be repaired with black RTV sealant used sparingly.

One option is to replace the stock airbox with individual filters such as K&N, or use a K&N replacement in the OEM box. With both mods, K&N and after-market exhaust, you may need to rejet your carbs, both main and pilots. For best results use only Mikuni genuine parts. How much to rejet is a great subject for debate. What it boils down to is that you need to keep a watch on your spark plugs and you may need to change jetting a few times before you get it right. Go to the Tech Tips section of the XS11.com web page and read some of the excellent articles that give starting points. A couple tools that make life easier are carb synchronizing kits and a tool called a ColorTune, which helps set the correct mix at lower RPM rnages.

One source of new performance parts is Merriam Cycle. See their web page link from the Vendors page. However, you are buying parts for a 20 year old bike with limited market these days, so the prices will be high. Big-bore kits to increase your displacment are still available. Not much in the way of 'cafe' parts unless you are into building your own, or adapting something from another bike.

Keep checking eBay for parts. You can fit different handlebars, mirrorrs, occasionally a differnt seat. You pretty much have to decide what you want to do, then be patient until the bits and pieces pop up. The process may take a while!

[redwulf]

Hi Jerry,
Thank you for taking the time to give me a GREAT response and ideas to my questions. May all your days on the road be dry and filled with sweepers!!
Take Care,
Mike Sager

[Dennyz]

take a look at my "F". it came to me fully faired. Even had a trunk. I call it my Retro-Sport bike. It is in constent upgrade mode.

Currently I have removed the front pegs, made new rear peg mounts and have fabricated rear controls (not shown in the picture).

I am running the Jardine painted 4:1 with a 2000 R6 muffler adapted to it. It is very quiet to the outside world, yet has a very nice tone to the rider. Most of what I hear are the carbs.

[webbcraft2150]

My 80g hardbagger stock exhaust had finally given up the ghost. Looked into many other systems. I wanted to keep the 4 into 2, chrome pipe look. On a chance, I ordered two mufflers from JC Whitney, the 27in., extra long ones with reverse megaphone ends. They were about $40 each + shipping. When they came in, the were from Emgo. Installation took about two hours, used stock hangers with some modifications. Had to fabricate stop for center stand and some work was needed on the brake pedal so it would clear the mufflers. The results, as far as I am concerned, were outstanding. The mufflers resemble stockers and are almost the same length. Exhaust note took some getting used to. Not real loud, but backing off the throttle reminds of a Ducati, or my old Norton. Did not have to make any jetting adjustments. For the bucks, these units can be beat. Have put about 5k on them and still looking good.

[strom]

I can send you mine, if you send me stock

I have a 4 into 1 marwing, a bit beat under the bike, comes out at the rear right footpeg and ends bout 10cm behind the peg.
It has an authentic rusty look and when the bike started it barfed out lots of rot and stuff... sounds like a bomber

I don't wanna change it cause of the exhaust note, but it's kinda mad-maxish road warrior ugly

LP

[Dennyz]

here is the picture that did not work in my previous post.

[Mike Hart]

Denny, watching the evolution of your bike is a real treat. What's next.... hmmm how bout usd front end w/ 17" wheel and sixpot calipers?

I hope you post pix here when the new controls are finished.

[crunchbird]

For non-fabricators, there is a guy with a website who sells rearsets to fit the xs11, I tracked him down off the address on this picture of the xs650 Manx cafe kit he makes: http://www.geocities.com/sjcyclehead/78xsad.jpg

Omar's racing in Plymouth, MN, but I don't have more than that bookmarked.