Unleash Your Honda Valkyrie's Potential with Aftermarket Exhaust Upgrades

The Legendary Honda Valkyrie

The Honda Valkyrie is a cruiser motorcycle that has reached legendary status among riding enthusiasts. Originally launched in 1996, the Valkyrie featured Honda's powerful 1520cc flat-six engine and a striking design. Over the years, the Valkyrie has undergone several evolutions but has remained a standout in the touring cruiser category.

The Unique Flat-Six Engine

At the heart of the Valkyrie is its unique 1520cc flat-six engine. Inspired by Honda's racing GP bikes, the horizontally-opposed six cylinder design provides a low center of gravity for exceptional handling. The liquid-cooled powerplant churns out massive low-end torque, perfect for cruising down the open road. Valkyrie models through 2003 produced up to 98hp, while later iterations with fuel injection could top out at 103hp.

Smooth Power Delivery

The flat-six engine provides smooth, vibration-free power delivery ideal for long days in the saddle. Rubber engine mounts isolate any potential vibration from the chassis. Power is managed by a 5-speed transmission with a low final gear ratio, allowing the Valkyrie to cruise highways effortlessly at low rpm. Overall, the unique engine provides the best of both worlds - Honda reliability coupled with an exotic six cylinder exhaust note.

Stylish Bodywork

In addition to the engine, the Valkyrie turns heads with its styling. The beefy tank and wide front fender give it a substantial presence. Full bodywork provides adequate weather protection for rider and passenger. Large capacity lockable saddlebags and an integrated trunk provide plenty of storage for weekend getaways. The saddlebags can be removed quickly when more of a stripped-down look is desired. Classic chrome accents and low-slung posture enhance the Valkyrie's profile.

Maximizing Performance With Upgraded Exhaust

One popular upgrade Valkyrie owners invest in is an aftermarket exhaust system. While the stock exhaust provides a pleasing tone, an aftermarket system can unlock more performance and produce an even better soundtrack.

Weight Reduction

Aftermarket Valkyrie exhausts systems are designed to be lighter than heavy stock components. By reducing weight, especially weight that is suspended out from the center of the bike, handling and suspension response can be improved. Lighter exhausts reduce unsprung weight and allow the suspension to react faster over bumps and dips in the road.

Increased Airflow

High performance exhausts are designed to maintain ideal backpressure while allowing more airflow. This improves cylinder filling and scavenging, especially at higher rpm. More air flowing through the engine equals more power. Stainless steel or titanium designs resist corrosion and stand up to high exhaust temperatures.

Better Throttle Response

Higher flowing exhausts improve throttle response. The engine can breathe better throughout the rev range. Twist the throttle and experience highly responsive power delivery.

Enhanced Sound

One of the biggest advantages of an aftermarket exhaust is the improved sound. More aggressive exhaust notes enhance the big six cylinder engine's character. Deeper, louder tones make blasting down the highway more stirring. Performance exhausts achieve the perfect note - throaty yet refined.

Popular Honda Valkyrie Exhaust Upgrades

Many top brand names offer bolt-on exhaust components to give the Valkyrie power and style. Here are some popular options:

Cobra Slash Cut Slip-Ons

Cobra's Slash Cut Slip-On Mufflers are a easy bolt-on upgrade that produces a deep muscular tone. The slash cut tips look great and give the back end a more rugged profile. Cobra uses proprietary R.A.C.E. technology to maximize airflow and performance. The mufflers are constructed from stainless steel and have a chrome plated finish.

Vance & Hines Fuelpak Tuner

To get the most from an aftermarket exhaust, the Vance & Hines Fuelpak FP3 tuner is a great addition. The Fuelpak plugs into the ECU and provides advanced fuel and timing calibration. Download free map updates from the massive Vance & Hines calibration database. Precision tuning unleashes maximum performance from the new exhaust.

Yoshimura Slip-Ons

Legendary exhaust builder Yoshimura offers slip-on muffler options for the Valkyrie. Choose from the stainless steel Alpha Taper design or aluminum TRI-OVAL exhaust. The Yoshimura mufflers reduce weight, boost performance, and create an amazing V-Twin exhaust note from the flat-six engine. Sound levels are mellow enough for long rides.

Two Brothers Racing S1R

For a more radical look and sound, the Two Brothers Racing S1R full exhaust system is a head turner. The stainless steel design features a huge oval muffler and slash cut outlet. The system provides massive style, reduces up to 7 pounds of weight, and boosts power. The rumbling tone turns heads from a mile away.

Finding the Perfect Exhaust Note

Ultimately, choosing the right Valkyrie exhaust is a matter of personal taste. Do you want a deeper growl or more high-pitched wail? Loud, moderately loud, or a refined whisper? The exhaust modifications you make depend on your specific style and desires. With the plethora of Honda Valkyrie exhaust products available, you can dial in the perfect tone to match your personality.

FAQs

What are the benefits of an aftermarket Valkyrie exhaust?

Aftermarket exhausts offer benefits like weight reduction, increased airflow and throttle response, and an improved exhaust note. This boosts the overall performance of the Valkyrie.

What brands make Valkyrie exhaust systems?

Top brands like Cobra, Vance & Hines, Yoshimura, and Two Brothers Racing offer bolt-on slip-ons, full systems, and tuners for the Valkyrie.

What exhaust gives the Valkyrie the deepest sound?

Systems like the Two Brothers Racing S1R full exhaust with its large oval muffler produce a very deep, rumbling sound from the Valkyrie's six-cylinder engine.

Are aftermarket exhausts street legal?

Most aftermarket systems are designed to meet EPA sound regulations for street legality. But some very loud systems may not meet local noise ordinances.

Will an exhaust void my Valkyrie's warranty?

Installing an exhaust will not automatically void the factory warranty. But any related engine damage directly attributable to the exhaust may not be covered.