So I've been messing around with my Cobra's to get the right sound and think I've finally landed on something that's a good compromise between sound and performance.
I love the sound of baffles out, but was sad about the loss of power (and let's be honest it was maybe a tad too loud for the neighbors). So, I tried chopping the cobra baffles down to a couple inches, thinking I can reduce the size of the baffle and maintain backpressure for low/midrange power. Barely any difference.
I got thinking maybe I could put in some Big City Thunder Monster baffles, but they are pricey - like $80 a pair. And after looking at pics of them online it seems like an easy concept. They use a "lollipop" to create backpressure without affecting the sound too much. Apparently it's an old racing trick and lots of harley guys will do it too; at least that's what I've read.
Examples:
http://www.hondashadow.net/forum/72-technical-discussion/137386-homemade-baffles.htmlhttp://www.vtxoa.com/forums/6-vtx-1800-tech-board/106866-how-homemade-thunder-monster-type-baffles.html?action=threadhttp://www.nightrider.com/biketech/exhaust.htmSo, I went to the hardware store and spent about $10 getting some eye bolts, washers, and nuts. I used JB weld to attach the washers on because I don't know how to weld and don't have any buddies who do either; JB weld should be good for up to 500-600 degrees. Didn't take long at all.
It's pretty much perfect for me. It's louder than baffles in, and slightly quieter than baffles out, and I feel like I've regained most of my low end power.
Just thought I'd share.
