Header attachment

[Rob S.]

Most headers I see (and all I've ever owned) are bolted to the engine. But I've occasionally seen ones that seem to be held on with springs.

I'm going to venture a guess that the springs are used in racing applications to enable quicker on/off. And that springs used on street bikes are for the cool looks.

Am I even close?

[Steve]

That's about the way I see it, too.

There is also the possibility that some street guys are running race-type headers that are held on with springs. Some (most?) of those headers require removal to change the oil and filter, so easy on/easy off helps.

.

[Rob S.]

That's about the way I see it, too.

Thank you, Master Po!

[bwringer]

It's mainly for weight savings.

The spring connections transmit less vibration to the pipes, and allow the pipes a bit of movement relative to the chassis and engine (vibration, chassis bending, and heat expansion) while keeping decent sealing (never seems 100%, but good enough). That way, the pipes can be made from much thinner, lighter materials without cracking. It also allows for the use of brittle materials like titanium and thinner stainless steel.

Plus, little wire loops and springs are a lot lighter than flanges and bolts or studs.

[greg78gs750]

plus it looks so bada$$ on a street bike like OHHHH LOOKOUT WE GOT A RACER COMIN' THRU HERE BOYS DAYUMMMM srsly tho wish my yosh was sprung as it requires dismounting for oily-c's

[Rob S.]

plus it looks so bada$$ on a street bike like OHHHH LOOKOUT WE GOT A RACER COMIN' THRU HERE BOYS DAYUMMMM srsly tho wish my yosh was sprung as it requires dismounting for oily-c's

O-Kay...double shot of 151, flaming. The rules are: you may hold one, and only one hand on the bar. You must remain on your feet at all times. If you, or your clothes catch fire, so be it.

Things I learned in college.