If you’re building a Honda CB café racer, picking the right exhaust is important. The exhaust isn’t just a metal pipe. It affects how your bike sounds, looks, and performs. You want it to sound great, look sleek, and help your bike run well. That’s why choosing the right exhaust can feel tricky.
The Honda CB series, especially models like the CB750, CB550, and CB500, are top choices for café racer projects. These bikes have strong engines and classic looks, making them perfect for custom builds. One of the first upgrades riders often choose is a new exhaust.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to pick the best exhaust for your Honda CB café racer. We’ll look at what features to consider, the top exhaust options, and tips for installing and taking care of it. By the end, you’ll know which exhaust suits your bike and style best.
Let’s get started!
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Exhaust
Choosing the right exhaust isn’t just about picking a shiny pipe. You need to think about a few key things. These will help you find an exhaust that looks good and boosts your bike’s performance.
1. Better Performance
Many riders change their exhaust for better performance. A good exhaust can add horsepower and torque. This means your Honda CB café racer will be faster and more responsive. Look for exhausts with better airflow. This helps the engine breathe well and run smoother.
2. Sound
The sound of your bike is a big part of its feel. Do you want a deep growl or a loud, high-pitched roar? Some exhausts are loud and aggressive, while others are quieter but still sporty. Remember, some areas have rules about noise. Check the local laws before picking an exhaust.
3. Style
Café racers are all about style. The look of the exhaust should match your bike’s design. Do you like polished chrome, sleek black, or raw stainless steel? The right exhaust can make your bike look vintage, sporty, or tough, depending on your style.
4. Quality and Strength
You want an exhaust that lasts. Look for materials like stainless steel, titanium, or carbon fiber. These are strong, rust-resistant, and handle heat well. A well-built exhaust will last longer and handle rough rides.
5. Price
Exhausts come in many price ranges. You can find budget options or go for premium systems. Decide on your budget before you start shopping. Keep in mind that cheaper exhausts might save you money now, but may not last as long or perform as well as higher-end options.
Top Exhaust Options for Honda CB Café Racers
Now that we know what to look for in an exhaust, let’s go over the top choices. I’ll explain the pros and cons to help you pick the right one for your Honda CB café racer.
1. 4-into-1 Exhaust Systems
The 4-into-1 exhaust is a favorite for café racer builds. Here’s why:
- Performance Boost: It combines four pipes into one, improving airflow. This design gives you more power and torque, making your bike faster and more responsive.
- Lightweight: Most are made of stainless steel or titanium, reducing the bike’s weight. This helps with better handling.
- Sound: It delivers a loud, deep growl. This choice is great if you want a strong, aggressive sound.
- Look: The single pipe has a sleek design that fits well with the café racer style.
Recommended Brands:
- Delkevic: Known for quality and durability. Offers finishes like polished chrome and matte black.
- Yoshimura: High-performance and lightweight. Often used for racing builds.
Cons:
- Can be pricey, especially titanium models.
- You might need to adjust the carburetor for better performance.
2. 2-into-1 Exhaust Systems
If you want a mix of performance and style, the 2-into-1 exhaust is a good pick.
- Balanced Performance: It merges two pipes into one, giving a power boost without too much noise.
- Compact Design: The single exit pipe has a clean, simple look that matches the café racer style.
- Better Cornering: This system is usually lighter and smaller, which helps with turning and handling.
Recommended Brands:
- MAC Performance: Reliable and affordable. Known for good sound quality.
- Carpy’s Café Racers: Custom designs made for the Honda CB series. Offers a vintage style with modern performance.
Cons:
- The sound is less aggressive than 4-into-1 systems.
- There are fewer options to choose from compared to other exhausts.
3. Slip-On Mufflers
If you’re on a budget or want an easy upgrade, try slip-on mufflers.
- Easy Installation: Slip-on mufflers are simple to put on. You won’t need special tools or skills. Just replace the stock muffler with the new one.
- Cost-Effective: They are cheaper than full exhaust systems. You get better sound and a slight performance boost without spending a lot.
- Variety of Styles: There are many designs and finishes available, so you can easily match your bike’s look.
Recommended Brands:
- Vance & Hines: Offers great sound and stylish looks. Known for high-quality finishes.
- Cone Engineering: Specializes in custom mufflers for café racers. They are lightweight and stylish.
Cons:
- Less performance gain compared to full exhaust systems.
- Might not change the sound as much as you’d like.
Installation Considerations
You’ve picked your exhaust, and now it’s time to install it. This can be easy or hard, depending on the exhaust type and your skills. Let’s go through the basics before you start.
1. Check Compatibility
Make sure the exhaust fits your Honda CB model. Not all exhausts work with every CB version. Check if it’s made for your bike’s year and model (like CB750, CB550, or CB500). Buying the wrong size can make installation difficult.
2. DIY or Professional Help
You can install the exhaust yourself if you have basic tools and some experience. Slip-on mufflers are the easiest. You just take off the old muffler and put on the new one. It usually takes about 30 minutes.
For full systems like 4-into-1 or 2-into-1, the job is tougher. You might need to remove the old headers, which can be tricky due to rusted bolts or hard-to-reach spots. If you don’t feel confident or lack the right tools, ask a professional mechanic for help. They can do the job right and safely.
3. Tuning and Rejetting
After installing a new exhaust, your engine might need some changes. Full exhaust systems affect how the engine breathes. If your bike has carburetors, you may need to rejet them. Rejetting adjusts the fuel mix for the new exhaust. Skipping this step can cause problems like backfiring or rough idling.
For bikes with fuel injection, use a tuning device to adjust the engine settings. A Power Commander or similar tuner can help your engine run well with the new exhaust.
4. Check for Leaks
After you install the exhaust, check for leaks. Start the engine and listen for hissing sounds near the joints. Leaks can hurt performance and change the sound. If you hear a leak, tighten the bolts or use an exhaust sealant.
5. Tools You’ll Need
Here’s a quick list of tools for DIY installation:
- Wrench set
- Screwdrivers
- Penetrating oil (for rusted bolts)
- Torque wrench (for tightening bolts correctly)
- Exhaust sealant (optional but helps prevent leaks)
Maintenance and Upkeep
You’ve installed your new exhaust, and your Honda CB café racer looks and sounds great. But to keep it that way, you need to do regular maintenance. Here are some easy tips to help you.
1. Clean Regularly
Dirt and water spots can make your exhaust look dull. Clean it often to keep it shiny and prevent rust.
How to Clean:
- Let the exhaust cool completely before you start.
- Use warm water and mild soap to wipe off dirt.
- For tough spots, use a soft brush. Avoid anything too rough that might scratch the surface.
- Rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
- For stainless steel or chrome, use a metal polish for extra shine.
2. Check for Damage
Your exhaust faces a lot of heat and road debris. Check it every few rides for any signs of damage.
What to Look For:
- Cracks or Holes: These can cause leaks and hurt performance.
- Rust Spots: Rust can weaken the metal and spread fast.
- Loose Bolts: Vibrations can loosen bolts, causing leaks.
If you see any problems, fix them right away. Tighten bolts, apply rust protection, or get help from a mechanic if needed.
3. Prevent Rust
Rust is the biggest problem for any exhaust. Keep your bike dry and store it in a covered area when not in use.
Tips to Prevent Rust:
- Wipe down the exhaust after riding in the rain.
- Use a rust-prevention spray or anti-rust coating.
- Add a heat wrap if you often ride in wet weather.
4. Watch for Discoloration
Over time, your exhaust might change color from heat. This is normal, especially with stainless steel, which can turn golden or blue. While this isn’t an issue, some riders prefer to keep the original look.
How to Fix Discoloration:
- Use a metal polish made for exhaust pipes.
- Rub gently with a soft cloth until the color fades.
- If the discoloration happens suddenly or looks severe, check your engine tuning. It could mean the engine is running too lean.
5. Store Your Bike Properly
Proper storage is key, especially during winter. Moisture can cause rust and damage to your exhaust.
Storage Tips:
- Keep your bike in a dry spot, away from rain and damp air.
- Use a breathable bike cover (not plastic) to avoid moisture buildup.
- Start the bike occasionally to prevent moisture from building up inside the exhaust.
Conclusion
We’ve covered everything you need to know about picking the best exhaust for your Honda CB café racer. Here’s a quick recap:
Key Points
- Know What You Want
Decide what matters most to you: performance, sound, or style. This will help you choose the right exhaust. - Consider Your Options
- 4-into-1 Exhausts: Great for power and a loud, aggressive sound. Perfect for a sleek, racing look.
- 2-into-1 Exhausts: A balanced choice. Good performance and a classic café racer style.
- Slip-On Mufflers: Easy to install and budget-friendly. Ideal if you want a simple upgrade.
- Think About Installation
You can install a slip-on muffler yourself. It’s quick and easy. But for full exhaust systems, getting help from a mechanic might be a good idea. Check for leaks after installation, and consider tuning your engine. - Keep It Maintained
Regular cleaning and checking for damage will keep your exhaust in good shape. Protect it from rust and look for issues often. - Choose Quality
Investing in a good exhaust is worth it. It lasts longer, looks better, and improves your riding experience.
With the right exhaust, your Honda CB café racer will look and sound amazing, and run smoother and stronger. The exhaust you pick should match your style and how you ride. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect fit for your bike.
Ride safe and enjoy the new sound of your café racer!
FAQs
Do I need to adjust my carburetor after installing a new exhaust?
Yes. A new exhaust can change airflow. Adjusting the carburetor helps the engine run better and prevents problems.
Will changing the exhaust affect my bike’s fuel efficiency?
It might. A new exhaust can change fuel use. Tuning the engine after installation can help maintain or even improve fuel efficiency.
Is a louder exhaust always better for performance?
No, not always. Some loud exhausts boost performance, but others are made for sound only. Focus on good quality and design for real performance gains.
Can I install a new exhaust myself, or should I hire a professional?
If you have basic tools, you can install a slip-on muffler yourself. For full exhaust systems, it’s best to get help from a mechanic to make sure it’s done right.
How often should I clean and inspect my new exhaust?
Do it regularly. Clean your exhaust every few rides to avoid buildup. Check for rust or damage each month to keep it in good shape.
