Questions and Answers
<<< Go to Staintune order page | Motorsports Home Page >>>
Company | Horsepower | Jetting | Carbon Fiber? | How Loud? | Save Weight?
Catalytic | Installing | Instructions | Fit | Fit With Accessories | Exhaust Gaskets | In Stock?
Compared to others | Maintenance | WarrantyCompany / Product Background
Staintune of Australia has carved a superior reputation since 1980 as the premier manufacturer of exquisite hand crafted stainless steel exhaust systems.Staintune exhausts are engineered and tested to improve the overall efficiency, appearance and sound of a stock configured motorcycle. Staintune is not an exclusive race bike development company. While their systems can be used on race bikes with excellent results, the design concept behind their exhaust systems is for real world street riders looking to possess the highest quality system available. Their focus is not for radically modified one-off bikes. Do you want something you can simply take out of the box, bolt on and go? Greater value is placed on enhancing overall dynamic response during normal street-riding conditions, rather than making boisterous claims to big horsepower increases available only at the highest RPM range. Is that where you normally ride on a day-to-day basis? While their systems are not designed for exclusive race conditions, they do enhance the performance of your bike with an average being one or two more horsepower with no modifications.
Staintune exhausts systems will outlast others, especially under the high-heat, high-corrosion demands of stop and go urban driving. The effort required to use only stainless steel pays off in the long run for you. Even after the 1-year warranty has expired, small scuffs and surface imperfections can be polished out at your local machine shop for a reasonable charge.
Horsepower, will I gain any?
It's a never-ending quest to have the most, a little more than your buddies or at least a little more than you have now, regardless of the bike.Customers with a Kawasaki ZX12R will call us up and ask how they can add more Hp. We say, "you already have the most". Customers will always reply "Yeah, but it's still not enough."
Typically, bikes come from the factory already needing some sort of change, even without adding an exhaust system. You won't gain heaps of horsepower by adding just an exhaust, but you also will not lose horse power because you failed to also change your air cleaner, reconfigure the jetting or reinstall a new chip and advance the timing as is a standard practice on many of the pure race exhaust systems. Staintune high flow exhaust systems help produce more efficient power along with snappier throttle response and smoother torque curves within the frequently used mid-range power, all without excessive noise.
Should I re-jet or chip my bike?
This is always the second question just after the "how much horsepower am I going to get" question.Systems are developed from a stock configured bike for real world street riding conditions, rather than wide-open-throttle riding on a heavily modified race bike.
Re-jetting or chipping is not needed with Staintune exhausts. In most cases, you could actually re-jet or chip your bike with the stock pipes and find an increased result. How is this possible? It's due to the governmental restrictions placed on bike manufacturers to make the bike legal for sale in the U.S. market. If the manufacturers could cut lose and do anything they wanted, the jetting would already be spot on.
Staintune exhausts are developed using bone-stock factory bikes. They will get a baseline dyno run and see where the bike is already good and where there is room for improvement. Their hands are not tied by governmental regulations. The result is a pipe that puts the bike were it "can be" rather than "where it is told it has to be" to meet the regulations of the DOT or EPA for sound and emissions.
Please bear in mind that modifying a bike's emissions in any way is illegal in the U.S.
What do the systems sound like?
BMW K1200RS | VFR800
Each bike will obviously have its own unique sound. Trying to relate what the pipes will sound like on your bike is very hard to describe with text on a computer screen. Staintune exhausts feature a removable sound restrictor in almost every muffler (when the design allows). This restrictor allows you to adjust the sound levels to your liking. The photo below shows what the restrictor looks like in the muffler and also what the restrictor looks like when removed. You can see the little set screw on the underside.With the restrictor in place you will get an exhaust note that is just slightly louder than the stock muffler. It will be throatier under acceleration and deceleration and only the slightest bit louder under steady throttle setting like out on the highway. Think of it as a shotgun choke which reduces the diameter of the exhaust exit. It has only a very small effect on performance when installed. Its main function is to reduce the exhaust note to a very pleasing level. Staintune pipes are actually one of the quietest aftermarket pipes you can buy. Even with the sound restrictors removed, they still come in a few decibels less than all other aftermarket pipes. The restrictor is removed by unscrewing a small 6 mm allen set screw on the underside of the exhaust spigot. You then pull it out with a pair of pliers.
With the restrictor removed you are now in full "Sport-Pipe" mode and the bike will be louder under all conditions (idle, acceleration and deceleration). A better way to put this whole picture in perspective is to determine how well you like your neighbors. With the restrictors in place you can attend the summer parties down the street. With the restrictors removed you can pretty much count on not getting an invitation in the mail.
Which version should I choose, stainless steel or carbon fiber?
They both have their merits, based on your needs.Stainless steel exhausts are by far the most popular choice because of the ease of maintenance. Stainless steel does not rust or corrode under the high-heat, high-corrosion demands of stop and go urban driving. They are packed with a spun stainless steel wool which never blows out and never needs servicing or repacking. Almost all stainless steel mufflers feature the removable sound restrictor. Stainless steel is best suited to bikes which tend to average extensive miles over the years. It's maintenance-free appeal lets you focus on riding rather then servicing a pipe. And consider this, if you sell your bike a few years later and want to sell the pipes separately, you can simply polish the pipes back to a factory new finish. Since there is nothing that deteriorates inside or out, the pipes will hold their resale value extremely well.
Carbon fiber exhausts typically cater to a slightly more exclusive club of rider. These mufflers feature a rolled lip edge where the carbon sleeve attaches to the stainless steel endcaps to increase the visual appeal. They differ from the stainless mufflers in that they are packed with a fiberglass sound absorption material and must be repacked over time. Because they use fiberglass packing, as opposed to steel wool on the stainless mufflers, they cannot be fitted with the removable sound restrictors due to heat retention. A carbon fiber muffler will typically save one pound of weight per muffler over stainless steel. Carbon fiber mufflers carry a craftsmanship warranty against defects in construction and fit only. There is no in use warranty for carbon fiber mufflers. Repacking is not covered under warranty.
How loud are Staintune systems?
Staintune pipes decibel range will vary depending on the bike, and whether or not you use the sound restrictors. On average, as a general rule, the pipes run in the low 90's with the restrictors in place and just over 100 with the restrictors removed. This is a general rule of thumb and can vary up or down depending on the individual bike. A Ducati twin will definitely be more heart and ear pounding than an inline four BMW. The design of the engine can vary the number a few decibels +/-. With the restrictor in place you will get an exhaust note that is just slightly louder than the stock muffler. It will be throatier under acceleration and deceleration and only the slightest bit louder under steady throttle setting like out on the highway. Think of it as a shotgun choke which reduces the diameter of the exhaust exit. It has only a very small effect on performance when installed. Its main function is to reduce the exhaust note to a very pleasing level. Staintune pipes are actually one of the quietest aftermarket pipes you can buy. Even with the sound restrictors removed, they still come in a few decibels less than all other aftermarket pipes.With the restrictor removed you are now in full "Sport-Pipe" mode and the bike will be louder under all conditions (idle, acceleration and deceleration). A better way to put this whole picture in perspective is to determine how well you like your neighbors. With the restrictors in place you can attend the summer parties down the street. With the restrictors removed you can pretty much count on not getting an invitation in the mail.
Note: While Staintune systems are generally as quiet as stock systems (with baffles installed), they can certainly be much louder than stock when used on V-Twins like Ducatis.
How much weight can I save?
Staintune mufflers vary in design from bike to bike and exact weights differ. A standard single slip-on style muffler for a Honda VFR800 weighs six pounds. The stock muffler weighs somewhere over ten pounds. Each stock muffler will vary in weight based on the requirement of the motorcycle manufacturer to meet EPA and DOT sound and emission levels. On bikes with dual mufflers there is usually a pretty good weight savings. Some bikes come with a very lightweight system and the weight savings will not be as substantial, but there is usually some sort of weight savings over stock to be had.Do I eliminate my catalytic converter?
Staintune exhaust systems are not currently equipped with catalytic converters. They have produced prototype catalytic equipped mufflers and systems, but it is not currently a production item.The system components of a Staintune exhaust may eliminate the catalytic converter on your bike, if so equipped. It is currently illegal in the U.S. to remove emissions equipment on any vehicle. Installing a Staintune exhaust systems on a bike that was previously equipped with a catalytic converter is then considered an "off road use only" vehicle. It is the owners responsibility to keep the vehicle in compliance with state and federal regulations regarding emissions.
Eliminating the catalytic converter from your system will not affect the overall performance values of the bike. It will be lighter in most cases and will reduce heat build up around the catalytic converter.
On bikes equipped with an oxygen sensor in the catalytic converter, like BMW R1150 series bikes, the oxygen sensor port is retained so the sensor can still perform it's normal function. The sensor is most commonly found upwind of the catalyst so it still functions as normal, checking engine management functions as it did with the stock catalytic converter.
Easy is it to install?
Staintune exhaust systems, for the most part, are simply about replacing the stock muffler. If you can take your stock muffler off with the tools you have, you can install a Staintune muffler. Some of the complete systems, like on a BMW K 1200, where you are replacing the entire system, require a little more technical aptitude but nevertheless can be done. A second set of hands can often be helpful on full system installs as well but are not absolutely necessary. We often get feedback from customers on how well Staintune exhaust systems fit.Where are my installation instructions?
Staintune exhaust systems, for the most part, are simply about replacing the stock muffler. If you can take your stock muffler off with the tools you have, you simply reverse the removal process to install a Staintune muffler. Instructions are typically included for some of the complete systems, where you replace the entire exhaust system, or if a modification to the stock exhaust mounting procedure is needed.How come I can't get it to fit right?
Staintune systems are by far one of the easiest mufflers to install. We are astounded by the feedback we get from customers praising the ease of installation and how well things fit together.We would say 99.99% of it goes on right the first time. For the .01% of the problems we have ever had, there has been something wrong like a bolt hole was mistreated or misaligned and it would not go together. This is covered under the Staintune warranty and we will immediately replace it with another in stock item. Remember that all Staintune exhaust systems are assembled by hand and there is a potential for manufacturing defect. It is nearly impossible for any manufacturer of any product to have a zero failure rate. The success rate for Staintune however gets praise from customers compared to other aftermarket systems. We are confident with the success rate which makes the ratio of any type of problem at all seem non-existent.
If something does not fit, you should never have to cut, bend, saw, file, grind, or in any manner have to tweak something to make it work. If a problem does arise during installation we ask that you call the US Distributor, CBT Imports 800-782-4686, to see if they can clear up any problem before proceeding. 99.99% of the time they can walk you through it without any other action being needed. If something does need to be addressed, they will give you the proper procedure for handling it. If you take it upon yourself to modify the product and it doesn't work, we will not be able to issue a credit back to you under any circumstances.
Will it work with aftermarket accessories I have mounted?
Staintune exhaust systems are designed to replace the stock system without having to adapt the bike in any way. If you have aftermarket accessories like saddlebags etc.. they should work if the saddlebags worked with the stock system. In the case that you are converting to one of the Staintune modified styles, the mount that these mufflers use may interfere with some aftermarket accessories. Staintune exhaust systems never require you to modify your bike or remove stock hardware, like a centerstand, to make the system fit.What is all included with my purchase?
Staintune exhaust systems will come with all the necessary hardware to fit the muffler to the bike. Replacement exhaust gaskets (if needed) are not included and should be purchased through your dealer before you begin the installation process. While all Staintune exhausts have close tolerance fittings, it is always recommended to make an airtight seal with the addition of some High Temperature RTV sealant (oxygen sensor safe if needed). If you fit the system together without it and notice weeps of black carbon build up at the joints, the pipe can be removed, the connections wiped clean and RTV sealant applied later if needed.If a system requires additional hardware for a unique mounting system, such as the R1150GS low mount or VFR 800 high mount, it will be included. In almost every case you will never be required to purchase anything extra other than new exhaust gaskets to do an install.
How quickly can I get it?
In the U.S., most systems are in stock at all times, and available for quick shipping. We carry a good supply of the common items and can special order any product we listed on our web site. Delivery time to the U.S. is usually 2 to 4 weeks for special order (out of stock) items. There is no extra charge for special order items.I don't see my bike listed. Do they make it?
Staintune exhausts listed on our web site are the current offering from the manufacturer for sale here in the U.S.A.. Some systems which are made for an Australian spec bike might not fit or have slight differences to the U.S. spec bikes.How does Staintune compare to the rest?
Staintune exhausts are designed to be the finest system available. Mechanically, visually and audibly they are an example of how far a manufacturer can go, without cutting any corners to attain a level of fit and finish that every other manufacturer wishes to achieve. The meticulous hand welds, hand polishing, the use of stainless steel and a packing material that never blows out or needs servicing, gives them a huge advantage over others. The effort alone it takes to polish raw stainless steel to a jewelers grade finish, in no less than a seven stage process, is testament to the lengths Staintune goes to set itself apart from the rest. The materials used have the potential to outlast the expected life of the vehicle.Part of the pleasure of owning a premium exhaust system should not require constant internal maintenance. Staintune exhaust systems are packed with a spun stainless steel wool which never disintegrates or blows out. This means you can spend more time riding.
You also need to take into consideration that every exhaust Staintune makes does not require modifications to the bike in any manner, such as jetting chipping or any other change. Simply take it out of the box, bolt it on and go! No other labor is needed to make it work.
What type of maintenance is there?
Staintune stainless steel exhausts require nothing more then routine cleaning of the exterior of the pipe. This can be done during routine vehicle washings. You should avoid any cleaners with abrasives. Abrasives will scratch the surface and cause the mirror-like polished finish to become dull. If the surface does become dull or accidentally scratched, it can be re-polished back to its original finish by a good machine shop.Spotting on the surface of the stainless steel can occur and will typically happen on pipes that have extremely high exhaust temperatures. While it looks bad, it is nothing to panic over. This again can be removed by re-polishing the surface back to its original finish. If spotting does occur, it will require more routine surface cleaning and polishing to maintain a spot free appearance. If it is re-polished by a machine shop, the spots can re-occur. It is advisable to maintain the pipe more regularly than a system that has cooler operating temperatures. Spotting is an indication that the exhaust temperatures are extremely high.
Several companies make polishing compounds that we can recommend. S100 Total Finish Restorer, Flitz, Simichrome or a host of other metal polishes will work well. All of these polishing compounds do require a little "elbow grease" as the main ingredient. The easiest, least time consuming way, is to have a professional machine shop handle the heavy buffing if the muffler was severely neglected. Again, avoid any compounds that may contain abrasives.
There is never a need to internally service or repack a stainless steel muffler because the packing material is a spun stainless steel wool. It will not disintegrate or blow out, ever. There are no rivets and there is no way to open the muffler up to get to the internals.
On carbon fiber mufflers, you should check to see that there is not an excess amount of heat on the carbon sleeve. You should be able to grab the carbon fiber section with your hand after a lengthy ride. If excessive heat is felt, it will signify that the fiberglass packing has diminished and it is time to repack them. If left unchanged, over time, the carbon skins will become exposed to the direct heat of the exhaust and begin to discolor and then eventually melt.
What is the product warranty?
Stainless steel exhausts come with a 1 year warranty against manufacturer defects or product failure during normal riding conditions - from the manufacturer.Any product that show signs of failure must be sent back to CBT Imports, the US Distributor, for inspection to determine whether it is a repair or replacement item. All warranty claim items are shipped "to" and "from" them using regular United Parcel Service ground services. If expedited service is needed, the additional expense over normal ground services will be billed to the customer.
CBT Imports and Motorsports Networks policy is to repair or replace a defective item as quickly as possible. We are not responsible for any "down time" related costs, such as, but not limited to, expedited shipping charges. CBT Imports does not cover labor charges regarding removal or re-installation nor do we cover additional items needed during re-installation such as gaskets etc...
Carbon fiber mufflers carry a craftsmanship warranty against defects in construction and fit only. There is no in use warranty for carbon fiber mufflers. Carbon fiber mufflers should be checked frequently to see that there is not an excess amount of heat getting to the carbon sleeve. If excessive heat is felt, it will signify that the fiberglass packing has diminished and it is time to repack them. If left unchanged, over time, the carbon skins will become exposed to the direct heat of the exhaust and begin to discolor and then eventually melt. Repacking is not covered under warranty.
Does installation void my bike warranty?
In a nut shell, and not beating around the bush, yes. But reading further into your warranty book reveals the problem with an immediate "yes" to this question."Any" aftermarket products installed on a bike, not approved by the motorcycle manufacturer will usually and unequivocally void your warranty. This means "ANY". If you install a tank bag and your motor fails, the manufacture could say the extra drag caused additional load and failed the motor beyond the normal use. This is an extreme case and not politically correct, but literally "any" from the manufacturer means "any". You should check with the bike manufacturer to see what is and is not covered on your warranty.
Since the inception of Staintune 1980, there has not been one single case where an exhaust system has caused a motorcycle to fail in any way. The designs from Staintune does not so radically change the behavior and nature of the bike for it to be of any concern.
Top of Page | Home | ATV | Street | Off-Road | Snowmobile | Watercraft
Copyright© 2003 by Motorsports Network. All Rights Reserved.
