I'm getting close to buying a curtis sparks pipe. Would a slip on be enough? Or would the head pipe make that much of a difference? I don't want to spend the money if it won't make that much difference. I plan on getting a high flow filter setup(maybe the sparks), sparks timing key, sparks pipe(full or slip on), and jetting to match. With these mods will the head pipe really make a difference(a $200+ difference)?


Thanks,
Dan

 

Did you read what they said on Sparks website? It says on there that they recommend a larger diameter head pipe. They said that its the same diameter as the 400ex, so you are trying to blow out 660cc's of exhaust out of a 400cc head pipe.

 

Don't waste your money on the headpipe just yet. The larger headpipe will kill the low end torque with the mods you are considering (a fully modified engine can take advantage of a larger pipe such as higher compression, porting, larger piston). If you ride in the trails or tight mx tracks, you will hate not having the low end torque. You will have to race the engine harder to have any power. If winning an endless mph race is your game though, the headpipe will increase your top end speed some - just make sure you have plenty of room to get to your top speed and don't race any other bikes for short distances. I am tired of reading about 400exs keeping up with Raptors for 50 yard races.

You are on the right track. Make the mods you mentioned but leave the headpipe out of the list. One other thing to consider before purchasing the airbox is whether you might want the new Edelbrock carb down the road. I doubt it will connect to the new airbox you just spent $275 on.

 

I bought a slip-on on my EX and after the mods I wanted the head pipes. Guess what, the slip-on would not fit a larger head pipe. Spend the extra money and get a full system.

Jay

 

the pipe will make hell of a difference.
especially curtis s .
my friend has one and it is awsome adds like 10 to 12 horses. go for it
he also has a pro flow air filter two thumbs up to that.
and if you are thinking about a curtis sparks ignition key it is awesome!!
get it all it is tremendace.

 

I somewhat disagree with what NoTuRaptor says.

The Raptor has plenty of bottom end, enough that most owners would be willing to trade a bit of low end power for a harder pulling mid range.

Everyone I have talked to that has this pipe says that they felt an increase in power across the entire RPM range!

I have a stainless steel Curtis Sparks full exhaust on order right now, should have it in approx 2 wks.

My suggestion to you is to speak with owners of the pipe, people who have raced against other pipes. Thiis will give you a better understanding of what to expect but, from what I understand the increase in power is over the entire RPM range.

Good luck with your decision!