GS450: Can I remove the 'cross-pipe' in exhaust system?

[thefourfifty]

Hi,

I am in the process of recycling an old GS450 into a cafe racer, and am going to replace the original mufflers with a couple of simple slip-ons. Tuning issues aside for the moment, I was wondering where to chop the exhaust at? Can I removed the pipe that links the two sides together under the sump, or does that serve an important purpose and shouldn't be messed with?



Thanks,

John S.

[Steve]

You would be MUCH better off if you cut off the cross-piece and left the rest of the mufflers intact.

You won't gain much power by doing any of the mods you are suggesting, only change the sound. If you cut the pipes and change the mufflers, get ready for jetting headaches. Just losing the cross-piece should not involve any of that.

.

[pete]

I'd do it after the balance pipe... but if it's as rusty as mine was you'll probably find the balance pipe doesn't want to separate when you take it off the bike.

The balance pipe is supposed to separate in the centre, so if you can get it separated like that then hang onto it.

[themess]

If you stop using the stock exhaust system, sell the stock one on this forum.

[hardline_42]

The H-pipe helps to balance exhaust pulses from each cylinder and helps scavenge exhaust as well. Lots of V8 car owners pay good money to add H and X pipes to their vehicles for this reason. I would keep the cross-over.

[BentRod]

Keep the cross pipe for sure.

And what is wrong with the stock mufflers? I think they look nice.. are yours all rusted out? You did say you are recycling this bike