Key Takeaways
- Maximize the longevity of your exhaust by cleaning it often to remove dirt, oil, and moisture that can cause corrosion.
- Check your exhaust for loose bolts, clamps, dents, and other issues that could affect its lifespan.
- Listen for unusual sounds like popping or rattling, which may indicate leaks, damaged components, or loose connections
Cleaning the exhaust pipes on your motorcycle is a useful routine. Take a Harley Davidson Touring bike fitted with Boneshaker slip-ons, for example. Every time you hit the road, your bike's exhaust system silently takes on extreme heat, vibrations, and debris.
Besides other issues like motorcycle exhaust dent repair, regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your exhaust and preserve its performance. That's why Boneshakers has put together some tips to help you get the longest lifespan out of your exhaust system.
Clean Your Motorcycle's Exhaust Pipes Routinely
Use the Right Cleaning Method
Before cleaning the exhaust pipes on your motorcycle, allow it to cool down before giving it a clean. Use a soft cloth like a microfiber towel to remove dirt and debris, along with a cleaning product that's safe to use on your bike. Avoid anything that could scratch or wear down the finish, such as steel wool or scouring pads.
Clean Based on Riding Conditions
How often you ride and the conditions you typically ride in determine how frequently you should clean your exhaust. If you commute often through wet, salty winter conditions, cleaning your exhaust after each ride can prevent corrosion. Weekend riders who enjoy summer rides may only need to clean the exhaust pipes on their motorcycle every few weeks.
Check Your Exhaust
Check Bolts, Clamps, and Brackets
Over time, constant riding vibrations can loosen the bolts and clamps holding your exhaust in place. At Boneshakers, we recommend checking these fasteners once in a while and making sure each connection is tight. Leaving a connection loose can result in leaks and more issues in the long term.
Get Your Bike Properly Tuned
When cleaning the exhaust pipes on your motorcycle, it's also advisable to make sure your bike is properly tuned. If the air-fuel ratio is too lean, it can cause the exhaust to overheat. This causes the pipes to strain, reducing the lifespan of the exhaust.
Watch for Unusual Sounds
Listening for changes in the sound your exhaust usually makes can help you spot a problem before it gets worse.
Fix Exhaust Problems Early
Dealing with unusual exhaust sounds early can help keep your exhaust system working properly. Ignoring a small sound caused by a minor exhaust leak, for example, can result in hot gases escaping and melting nearby electrical wiring.
If you're cleaning the exhaust pipes on your motorcycle and detect this early, it can just be a case of replacing the gasket instead of an expensive electrical repair. For physical damage, early motorcycle exhaust dent repair can also help improve exhaust longevity.
Know Your Muffler's Sound
Quality Boneshakers slip-ons should deliver a strong sound. Unusual popping or sudden rattling may be a sign of a loose or damaged part that shouldn't be ignored.
Protect Your Exhaust Between Rides
Whenever possible, keep your bike parked in a dry, covered place. If you ride in wet or muddy conditions, try to clean the exhaust pipes on your motorcycle afterward and allow the exhaust to dry completely. If you know your bike will be parked for a long time without riding, a motorcycle cover can help preserve the exhaust.
Keep Your Exhaust Maintained
Routine maintenance, cleaning, and inspections can increase the longevity of your exhaust system. When you're ready to upgrade, check out Boneshakers slip-ons for Harley Davidson Softail, Touring, and Indian Scout models. Boneshakers are manufactured in the USA, and shipping is free for every order.
FAQs
How can I tell if my motorcycle has an exhaust leak?
Signs of an exhaust leak can include an unusually loud exhaust, along with unfamiliar sounds like popping, hissing, or rattling. Also, if you're cleaning the exhaust pipes on your motorcycle and notice black carbon soot around exhaust connections, it may be a visual sign of a leak.
Can dents affect my motorcycle exhaust?
Yes. Depending on their size and location, dents can disrupt backpressure and affect overall performance. If you notice a significant dent, have it checked to see whether motorcycle exhaust dent repair is necessary.
How is it possible to clean the inside of a motorcycle exhaust pipe?
Remove the pipe and treat the inside with a chemical degreaser, allowing it to soak before cleaning the exhaust pipes on your motorcycle. Scrub away carbon deposits using a flexible wire bottle brush, then rinse thoroughly and allow the pipe to dry before reinstalling it.