I’m in the market for a new exhaust system for my 2006 Kawasaki ZX6R 636 and I’m feeling a bit lost on where to start. There are so many options out there that it’s hard to know which one will give me the best performance and sound.
What I’m Looking For
I’m hoping to enhance my bike’s performance while also getting that throaty sound that really makes a sportbike stand out. Here are a few things I’m particularly interested in:
Aftermarket Options: What are the best aftermarket exhaust systems for the 636? I’m looking for brands that have a good reputation.
Sound Profiles: How do the different exhausts sound? Links to videos or sound comparisons would be super helpful!
Performance Gains: Which systems actually provide a noticeable boost in performance?
Installation Tips: If you’ve installed an exhaust yourself, any advice on the process would be awesome!
Specifics
I’m open to slip-on and full systems. If you’ve had experience with a particular model, please share your thoughts.
Also, is there a significant difference in power delivery or back pressure with certain setups?
Budget
I’m not looking to break the bank, so if there are good options in the mid-range price category, I’d love to hear about those too.
Thanks in advance for your help! Can’t wait to hear your experiences and recommendations.
I’m looking into exhaust options for my 2006 636 as well. I’ve heard good things about the Akrapovic slip-on. It’s supposed to improve both sound and performance! Anyone else have experience with it?
I second that! The Akrapovic definitely enhances the bike’s power and gives it a deeper growl. You might also want to consider the Yoshimura exhaust. It’s pretty popular among riders.
While Akrapovic and Yoshimura are great, don’t overlook M4 exhaust systems. They are known for their unique sound and can provide a nice performance boost!
I had an M4 on my old bike. The sound was amazing, but I found it a bit loud for daily riding. What are your thoughts on balancing sound and practicality?
That’s a good point, Eric. I think if you find a mid-range exhaust, you can enjoy a nice note without it being too obnoxious. Has anyone tried the Two Brothers Racing exhaust?
I think exhaust wraps can help keep the heat down, which is excellent for performance. Just don’t expect them to drastically change the sound. They’re more for thermal management than aesthetic.
If looks are a priority, definitely consider the design of the exhaust! Some brands like Graves Motorsports offer stunning aesthetics alongside performance.
On the topic of looks, I can’t believe how some aftermarket exhausts can completely change the look of a bike. Just be careful; sometimes, you end up paying for looks over performance. Have any of you had that issue?
I’ve definitely seen that happen! Performance should be the priority. Check out the reviews before making a decision. You want to avoid spending a ton on a pretty exhaust that doesn’t perform!
I’ve installed a few different aftermarket exhausts on my bikes. For the 636, you’ll need basic hand tools, but an impact wrench can make the job easier. Watch out for the heat shields; they can be tricky!
Definitely a socket set, torque wrench, and some good pliers. Also, make sure you have a friend’s help; it makes handling the exhaust easier during installation!
One major challenge is aligning the exhaust properly. If it’s off just a bit, it can rattle while you ride, which is annoying. Also, don’t forget to do the brake line check post-install.