I'm having a debate with a friend. He put Samson true duals on his '06 Heritage. Did not change the exhaust gaskets when installing the new pipes. Now it's a year later and he says the bike is too loud(up front), has lost power, and his gas mileage has dropped down into the low 30's. I say he has an exhaust leak at the head. He says no, and think wrapping the pipes with exhaust tape will make them quiet down. As for the mileage and power, he says that's not unusual for a bike with 20,000 miles.

Does anyone have thoughts either way, or have thoughts on what he should do to remedy the problems?

thanks!

 

25K on my 'Boy and I get an even 42-43 with my 6'3" - 300lb frame on it. Pipes and all. Plus I would always change the gaslets when pulling the pipes. They are cheap enough so why not.

 

He may have an exhaust leak, but 10+ mpg loss is pretty steep for that. As far as wrapping the pipe goes, I don't think he is going to notice any real difference in sound.