ATV, Side-by-Side & UTV Exhaust
Exhausts take emissions from the engine to include sound, gas, and other particulates, filter them, and then route them away from the rider toward the rear of the vehicle. Enhancements may be made to stock exhaust and differnet ATV exhausts and accessories may be installed for changes in horsepower, handling, and sound. The exhaust also adds significantly to the overall look and style of your machine.
What are the benefits of using exhaust wrap?
The two main benefits of using exhaust wrap, also known as heat wrap or header wrap, are derived from its insulating properties. Heat generated by emissions is kept in the pipes when exhaust wrap is used, which means the exterior of the applied wrap is significantly cooler than bare metal. This saves riders boots, shoes, pants, and their skin from burns. ATVs also have several plastic pieces that may come into contact with the exhaust, so heat wrapping prevents melted plastic. The heat retained in the system helps with fuel usage and efficiency as well.
How does a spark arrestor work?
A spark arrestor or arrester prevents hot flammable materials from exiting the exhaust and causing fires in the environment. Having one is legally required in order to ride in public places since the 1980s due to concerns about backfire smoke, sparks, or flames causing wildfires. It is comprised of a cone-shaped steel screen that dissipates flammable debris or sparks before they exit the pipes.
How do you choose an exhaust system?
- Slip-ons or whole system - Slip-on mufflers are significantly easier to install because they slip over your existing parts and dont usually require any other modifications to be made, but they will yield a smaller improvement in how the vehicle performs. Installing all new pipes is an involved installation process and may require additional hardware installations to accommodate. However, this allows you to fully control the look of the exhaust and get greater performance gains.
- Material - Pipes are available in titanium, carbon fiber, steel, and aluminum. The weight, strength, and aesthetics of the material are all things to consider.
- Performance - Do you want more horsepower, better handling, or better low-end torque for your ATV? Look over the specifications to be sure that the exhaust system will give you the results you want.
- Sound - The rough and rugged rumble of aftermarket pipes may sound like a good idea, but be sure that the noise you like is allowed where you plan to ride. Trails that are available to ATVs may be close to residential areas where loud exhaust would not be welcome. Additionally, many public and private trails and park locations have rules against exhaust that is too loud.