Just tinkering with the exhaust for no apparent reason, but I found it sounds a little throatier and I kind of like it. Eventually I'll mod the airbox and get a Dobeck, but anyway, if I only ride private land, is it going to be a problem riding without it? What are the chances of there actually being sparks coming from the exhaust because it is very dry here right now?

 

Chances are very good. I've never seen a KQ w/o the s/a, but all others I've seen w/o one did. Let a friend put around on it in your yard, you'll see them. They look like little tracers shooting out of the exhaust. Unless you're on sand or a track, riding w/o the s/a is a bad idea, especially if it's dry out. You'd be well advised to not ride without it, I'm not sure, but setting a fire on private land requiring the Fire Dept's attention you're still held liable.