Home

Perhaps the most popular mod to any bike - and one that causes more debate than any other - is the exhaust system.  Riders purchase pipes for any of the following reasons

	style
	sound
	performance gains

Your priorities will determine how much research you'll have to do before your purchase, and what else you'll have to install at the same time.  Regardless of the reason, pipes can significantly affect performance.

Style - definitely the easiest reason to satisfy, but also the most precarious.  A good-looking pipe doesn't mean it's the best match performance-wise.

Sound - sound is hard to shop for unless you've heard the pipe you want on someone else's bike (which must be the same model as yours to be a true indicator).  Some pipe manufacturers do include sound bites on their websites. 

NEW - We have started to collect video & sound of certain pipes installed on the Raider.  Look for SOUND CLIP in the description of the pipe.

Performance - if you are interested in power gains, check out the "Educational Content" on performance posted in the Articles section of this site.  Here are a few accepted ideas (rules, caveats, etc.) that experience and "those in the know" seem to reinforce.

	Bikes come from the factory running lean to meet EPA requirement.  Most aftermarket pipes flow more exhaust gases than stock, meaning that the bike will run even leaner (good for people, bad for internal combustion engines) if other measures (recalibration of Fuel Injection) are not taken
	Usually, the pipe alone will not make more power.  Adjustments to air intake and fuel injection/carburetion should also be considered for maximum gains.
	We have it on good advice that installing a pipe that is longer than stock is detrimental to performance.
	Pipe Design - 2-into-1 systems offer the best performance gains, followed by 2-into-2's that have a crossover.  NOTE: While it has two outlets, from a functional standpoint, the Raider's stock system is a 2-into-1 pipe.
	While beneficial on the strip, drag pipes (straight, no baffles) are the worst for everyday riding.
	When shopping for an exhaust, try and find a dyno chart of that system on your model bike.  Note the intake and FI module used on the dyno run.

NOTE: When replacing your exhaust, it's a good idea to replace the crush gaskets where the head-pipe meets the cylinder head.  Some pipe manufacturers include gaskets with their systems, some don't.  They run less than $10 each, so it's a worthwhile investment.  Yamaha Part # 3EG-14613-00-00.  If you can't get them, let us know.

The Dragsters offer the classic straight drag-pipe look.  They include full-length heat shields, removable baffles, and billet tips on the pipes.  Based on their construction, you can expect these pipes to be on the louder side.  Note that the pipes are shorter than shown in the pictures on Cobra's website.  An accurate depiction of the pipes can be seen on BusaJack's Raider here.

	SOUND CLIP of Dragsters, from forum member Madcruzer, who posted more clips here.
	The Speedster Slashdowns offer what Cobra calls a "PowerPort", a crossover between the two pipes that is supposed to give the power benefits of a 2-into-1 system.  Certainly louder than stock, they will definitely enhance the sound of the engine, but these pipes are baffled as well, so you can expect them to be quieter than a straight-through pipe.
	SOUND CLIP of Speedster Slashdowns, courtesy of Eian from our forum.  Eian also notes:

The Speedster Swepts offer the same technology and similar construction to the Slashdowns, but in a curved, swept design inspired by the custom market that compliments the lines of the bike.  The pipes have proven to be very popular among Raider owners.  One concern raised in discussions has been the tendency of the lower heat shield to scrape the ground at extreme lean angles.  Cobra has been made aware of the problem and has informed us that they are looking into it.

SOUND CLIP of the Swepts can be found here, posted by RochNYRaider.

Vance & Hines - It's official - though not yet shown on their website, the Vance & Hines 2008 Catalog (NOTE: big PDF file)  contains their first pipe for the Raider - the Big Radius 2-into-1.  This is an interesting pipe, developed by V&H to combine the custom aesthetics of a curved exhaust with the proven performance of their 2-into-1 systems.  The styling is going to be somewhat controversial - some are going to love it, some will hate it. You can expect fit and finish to be just about perfect, and the curve of the pipe compliments the lines of the bike, especially regarding the rear fender area.  Styling aside, you can bet on the fact that with the proper fuel management, performance gains will be significant.  If you've ever heard any Vance & Hines exhaust, you know that they provide a very nice, deep rumble to large V-twin engines, louder than stock, but never obnoxious.  Part number for the Raider Big Radius 2-into-1 is 28501.

SOUND CLIP of the Big Radius courtesy of forum member Aaron, posted by MountainMan113.

Hard-Krome - Newly updated, Hard-Kromes website now lists several of their exhaust systems specifically for the Raider.  Hard-Krome uses double-wall construction on all their pipes, and offers a one-year guarantee against bluing.  Hard-Krome has a reputation for quality construction and decent performance.

	The SideBurner is a 2-into-1 system with a massive 4" Dia. turnout at the end of the collector.  The system makes a statement both visually and aurally, with a sound that Hard-Krome describes as "Top-Fuel Dragster".  The SideBurner is available in chrome or black ceramic finish, which they call "Black Star".  A note on the styling of this pipe - it's hard to see unless you view a photo of the bike from the front or back, but the end of this pipe actually turns out to the side - think 50's hot rod with side-pipes.  They do not point straight towards the back of the bike.
	SOUND CLIP - of Hard-Krome Strippers drag-style pipes, posted by BigDog from our forum.
	We spoke with the guys at Hard Krome to find out a little more about the sound of these pipes.  The guy on the phone said "ever hear a V-8 with open headers?"  That's what you can expect to hear from this system on the Raider.  He went on to tell us that there is a baffle in this pipe, but with a 4" collector, it doesn't do much to muffle sound, and they actually recommend wearing an ear plug in your right ear.  Performance wise, being a 2-into-1 system, it will offer significant gains with proper fuel management.
	An interesting twist in the custom exhaust aftermarket, Hard-Krome offers "Res-Tech" or Reduced Engine Sound Technology, a system of increased baffling which actually makes some of their pipes quieter (gasp), while maintaining good performance.  Their 3" Res-Tec Drags are a traditionally drag-styled system featuring this technology, and are available in black ceramic with billet end caps.

Morton's Customs - A custom bike shop out of North Carolina, Morton's has introduced a set of curved, swept pipes for the Raider.  Obviously influenced by their experience in the custom scene, this system is a classic, straight-through design, without baffles.  To break up the reversion pulse than can cause power losses in a straight-through system, they sell a pair of optional "Power-Cones".  You can expect this system to be LOUD, and Proper fuel management will be crucial with these pipes, but there's no denying the style they add.  They are available in both chrome and black ceramic.  Tejas Thump Cycles out of Meadow, TX, also sells these same pipes as "Raiderz", and includes the Power Cones in the purchase price.

We had some serious concerns about the quality and fit of these pipes.  Owners who have installed this exhaust have expressed a number of issues.  Installation was very difficult, as the O2 sensor bung was not centered in the hole in the pipe, and it took a couple of hours to file it down.  The bend in the pipe was not correct for the front cylinder, and did not seal correctly.  The curve of this system allows the tips of the pipes to grind along the ground when the bike is leaned over in a turn.

UPDATE - Morton's did take a personal interest in the difficulties our members were having with these pipes, and has assured us that the quality control issues have been resolved.  The O2 sensor hole issue has been fixed, and the mount has more adjustability built into it to assist in proper fitment, as well as sealing at the front cylinder head.

RoadBurner - While perhaps not at the forefront in many riders minds when it comes to aftermarket exhaust systems, RoadBurner pipes are definitely worth consideration when it the market for a quality pipe.  Featuring full length Doublewall Construction, RoadBurner claims to have the patent on the first non-bluing pipes in the industry, and offer a 1-year warranty that the pipes will not blue.  RoadBurner's site has not been updated to show their systems on the Raider, but the following pipes can be seen on the bike and are available for purchase at Direct Line Parts.

	Velocity 2-into-1 - A true, high-performance 2-into-1 system, the Velocity features S-Bend equal length header pipes and a two-piece endcap.  DLP has bolted the Velocity onto their house Raider and reported that fit and quality are excellent.  Also available on the Velocity Lites version without the machined endcap.
	2 1/2" Street Pros - Classically designed drag pipes with 2 1/2" outer pipes, and a standard spiral core/baffle.
	3" Step Drag Pros - These drag-type pipes feature a stepped inner pipe, starting at 1 3/4" Dia. and ending at 2", contributing to performance.  Outer pipe is 3" Dia, giving the overall system a fat look.

Raw Design - An exciting option for those Raider owners who do not want to replace the entire exhaust system, Stamford, CT's Raw Design is introducing their Reaper Tips.  These slip-on type exhaust tips replace the stock mufflers, while leaving the balance of the system, including the EXUP valve and emissions controls in place.  With most of the stock exhaust still in place, there is no need for aftermarket fuel adjustment or other modifications.  Sound at idle and cruise is docile, but the engine comes alive with serious attitude when you twist the throttle.

SOUND CLIP - This video direct from the manufacturer (and his intrepid son) taken on the road gives an excellent demonstration of the sound and volume of the tips at cruise and WOT.

Shown here in the polished stainless prototype, the production pieces, due Aug. 08, will be high-quality Chromed Steel to match the stock system perfectly.  Send us an email and let us know what you think.

Dobeck Performance/Techlusion - One of the most famous names in motorcycle performance that you've never heard of - Mark Dobeck.  Google his name and you can review his illustrious resume - Founder of DynoJet and inventor of the DynoJet Dynamometer, Jet Kit and Power Commander.  No longer associated with DynoJet, his latest effort is the Techlusion TFI Fuel Injection Module.  Check out their site and read the FAQ's to see exactly how and why this system works.  Quickly stated, you adjust your fuel mixture using three small screws on the unit, no computer needed, no maps to download, no software required.  Their customer service is excellent, call their tech support line, tell them what intake and exhaust you have, and they'll tell you the best settings to use over the phone.  The TFI Model # FI-2050ST is plug and play - directly into the wiring harness of the Raider.  Unplug the unit, and everything returns back to its stock setting.  We used the TFI on our last bike - installation was simple, tuning for our modifications was easy to say the least, and the results were immediate and noticeable.

NOTE that both Cobra's popular Fi2000 Fuel Injection Module and Kuryakyn's WildThings FI Controller are based on the Techlusion module.

FuelPak - Fully aware that bike performance is not based on pipes alone, the exhaust maestros at Vance and Hines have developed their own Fuel Injection Module called the FuelPak Fuel Management System.  Like the Techlusion unit, this module is programmed without the use of a computer, software or map downloads.  Instead of screws, the FuelPak is programmed through the use of a couple of buttons which adjust each of the settings.  The interactive FuelPak website provides the settings, called modes, based on your bike model, which pipe you have installed, and what air filter/intake you are running.  The FuelPak is a plug-and-play unit, connecting directly to your bike's ECU through the factory connectors.  The part number for the Raider is 65007.

NOTE: If you are considering the FuelPak, check their website first to see if your particular setup is listed.  If not, it means that settings have not yet been developed and programming the unit could be difficult.

DynoJet Research- with no introduction really necessary, DynoJet brings us the Power Commander.  Now in it's third version, the PCIII, the original Power Commander was the first Fuel Injection Calibration Module to be introduced to the public, and still the name most recognized.  Different from the other FI Modules mentioned above, the PC is programmed using "maps" - small computer programs developed around the the specific motorcycle, intake, exhaust and other factors.  Available from Dynojet, these maps are then downloaded from your computer to the Power Commander, which is then connected to your bike.  If adjustments are required, the PC is easily removed from the bike, brought to your computer for adjustment and then re-installed.  Fine tuning can also be performed using the buttons on the unit itself, with still connected to the bike.  Keeping in mind that DynoJet developed the Dynamometer, most bike shops that have a Dyno are equipped to program the PCIII as well, and can deliver custom maps designed to optimize your individual ride's performance.  With every version, the Power Commander gets easier to use, with the PCIII continuing the trend with a USB plug for simple connection to your home desktop or laptop computer.  PCIII USB part number for the Raider is 435-411.

Mustang - In business for over 20 years, with a well-deserved reputation for quality and comfort, Mustang Motorcycle Products has now introduced seats for the Raider.  With two basic designs - a one piece Day-Tripper and two piece Wide Touring Seat - Mustang offers accommodations for all types of riding situations and style considerations.  In our experience, Mustang seats offer significant long-distance comfort advantages over the stock saddle, and their quality and customer service are excellent. If you find their style matches what you're looking for with your Raider, they are definitely worth your consideration.

Kuryakyn - provides an extensive array of aftermarket lighting solutions for custom applications.

	Their Silver Bullet series of turn signal lights can be mounted in several different locations front and rear.  Available in both LED and halogen in large and small sizes.
	Kuryakyn provides a hollow bolt fender mount kit which allows their Silver Bullet lights to be installed in place of the stock fender strut bolt.  The wiring for the light runs through the center of the bolt, providing a totally clean appearance, with no external wires

Raw Design - The LED mavens at Raw Design have introduced a super-clean solution to all you Raider owners that hate the stock "lollipop" turn signals in both the front and back of the bike.  Their Stealth turn signals are comprised of super-bright LED's mounted to billet aluminum brackets, engineered to fit correctly right below the stock taillight assembly in the back and underneath the lower triple-clamp in the front of the bike.  The lights in the front function as both running lights and turn signals, as in the stock configuration.  Extremely low profile, both the front (shown here) and rear (here) are nearly invisible until activated, presenting a super-clean appearance.

Kuryakyn - certainly a company which requires no introduction to the custom bike world, Kuryakyn is a motorcycle accessory staple.

	Even if you don't know the name, everyone is familiar with their ISO-line - chrome grips and footpegs with the thick black rubber pads which add a stylistic impact and serious comfort.  The grips can be further accessorized with different color trip rings and grip ends (spikes, crosses, etc.).
	Their selection of footpegs is extensive.  In addition to their classic large and small ISO-pegs, check out the Flaming, Widow, Kaiser and Zombie pegs.  All pegs can be installed on the Raider with Kuryakyn adapter # 8802 for the front and # 8809 rear.

Jardine - while officially discontinued, Jardine billet grips are the still the industry standard.  Often imitated, each one is carved from a piece of billet aluminum (other brands are plated plastic), with flat rubber O-rings for grip and comfort.  We've installed them our on Raider, and fit, finish and comfort are perfect.  Several catalogs still have them, we got ours from J&P Cycles .

The same hardware can be used with multiple shields in the model line, allowing you to use multiple screens on the same bike using one set of hardware.  Mounting Hardware kits for the Raider are Memphis Shades part numbers 2320-0031 for any of the Fats/Slim series and 2320-0032 for the SportShields.  Looking for more protection, especially for two-up rides over longer distances, we swapped our previous windshield for the Memphis Shades Pop Top Sportshield, which you can see here.

Performance Edge - In addition to the the integrated Tail Light assembly, Performance Edge has applied their Yamaha experience to a number of accessories designed specifically for the Raider.  These are not generic "hit them hard enough and they'll fit" parts.  Each one of the accessories shown in their E-bay store has been engineered on the Raider.

	OK, you "S" guys, you bought your version of the Raider for a reason.  Satisfy you hunger for the Shiny Stuff by checking their chrome plating service.  They specialize in plating aluminum parts, utilizing a proprietary process which deposits 5 layers of chrome finish, and includes buffing and polishing between each layer.  This yields a beautiful "wet-look" finish.  Check out their wheels, upper belt guard, rear brake rotor cover, and front brake calipers.  All are genuine OEM.
	Performance Edge is the first company in the aftermarket to introduce a Side Mount License Bracket specifically for our bike.  Their bracket is laser cut from 10 ga. steel, and then black powder coated to blend in perfectly with the frame.  The bracket attaches to the stock bolts below the passenger pegs at the swingarm pivot.  In conjunction with their Tail Light assembly, the rear end of the bike is totally cleaned up.  Two versions are available: standard - the bracket itself, and deluxe, which adds an LED license plate frame.
	Another first, PE has introduced their Tricky Air Ride System, which takes the place of the rear shock, providing an air-cushioned rear suspension, and the ability to adjust the ride height of your bike.

The McCuff - The coolest accessory that you will never actually attach to your bike.  Allows you to fill your gas tank without having to bend over and peer into the filler hole, clicking the nozzle handle 50 times to get that last drop in.  You slip the McCuff over the gas pump nozzle, insert the nozzle and McCuff into the filler hole on the tank, and squeeze the handle.  When the tank is full, the pump clicks (like a car), and your done, with the additional benefit that your tank is protected to dripped fuel, and you've got more gas in your tank.  Comes in its own carry case that you can attach to your belt, handlebars, etc, or throw in your gear bag.

The brackets will basically work with any fender designed for the Raider's tire and wheel combination, a 120/70-21.  If you purchase a fender elsewhere, you can still buy the brackets separately.  The bracket design can be altered slightly depending on the fender used.  The following specifications should be noted:

	Width of new fender between mounting points
	Height from crown of fender to bottom of mounting points
	Fender should not be pre-drilled.  This will allow fine-tuning of the fender-wheel gap.

Brackets are available painted either Gloss Black or Flat Black, or chromed for an extra charge. 

Sawtooth also has a decal for the rear fender which replaces the stock logo.  Fender decals are $3 and are available with either straight or curved lettering.