I would expect the CVO mufflers to be more restrictive than the SE's since CVO bikes have SE255 cams which are inherently louder. Thus to meet noise-pollution regs this means more sound attenuation and more flow restriction, but this is strictly speculation on my part.

 

Only the CVO Models (All), HDI Model (Australia, UK etc) and California Models

In Australia and the UK we also get a double whammy with an exhaust flapper valve that closes of the right side muffler and forces the exhaust out through the left side at certain speeds and rpm's

I'm in Australia so I got a 49 state US header and it has no CAT and got some 2009 CVO mufflers of a RG from a guy in the USA.

Works great and can hear the music and no exhaust valve!

 

I assume these flapper thingies address some noise issue, right? I'll bet they do wonders for performance.

OT and out of curiosity: How popular are Harleys in Australia? How do authorities handle exhaust changes like louder mufflers that we like so much in the U.S.?

 

I went to HD and asked about the CVO and I ended up buying a brand new pair of 09 Road Glide Stock Mufflers that were taken off a bike that was sold and the buyer, I guess, upgraded to SE. I got the stocks for $80. I installed them and couldn't be happier. They sound great and I have no more pinging like I had with my Rush. I assume that since aftermarket mufflers have more flow it creates pinging. The reason I say this is because everyone I know with a 09 touring bike that put aftermarket mufflers on them, regardless of brand, got pinging. I assume that with the more restricted flow in the stock mufflers you gain more back pressure eliminating the ping. It's just a guess but I'm happy that I have no more pinging. To each monkey their own tree. I'm one happy monkey.

 

I have to agree - the CVO mufflers have the 3 screw kind. The new endcaps for the SE slipons have the 4 screws on the inside. Does this mean I can buy the old style endcaps and they will fit?