Old bike or new bike, whatever the case, it seems that as soon as you bring your bike home, the aftermarket parts catalogs open up. For most guys the exhaust system is one of the first places to start swapping out parts whether it is sound they are after or a little more power. Knowing this, companies like Vance & Hines (V&H) are trying to stay ahead of the game by offering exhaust systems for the newest models. Everything from slip-on mufflers to full exhaust systems with fuel management units and air cleaner kits. For the `09 FL models V&H has an exhaust system called the Power Duals with Monster Oval mufflers that comes with header pipe, heat shields, and their exclusive Power Chamber with contoured heat shield. Similar to the stock `09 FL pipe design, the V&H True Duals run the rear pipe under the frame to help eliminate heat. The Power Duals are designed with built in bungs for the 02 sensors, good looking heat sheilds and should increase power and torque. We wanted to test a set out, so we went over to Huntington Beach Hogs and Choppers, where shop owner Ed Syer had a `09 Street Glide that was the perfect guinea pig for the V&H pipes, FuelPak Fuel management system and air filter kit. Also with a dyno in the shop we could install all the parts and get some test numbers all in one day.
1. This is the Power Duals...
1. This is the Power Duals exhaust system with header pipe, heat shields, Monster Oval mufflers and mounting hardware. Also the V&H FuelPak and new Drak air filter kit.
2. Before performing the...
2. Before performing the install Ed got some baseline numbers which were 67.4 hp and 78.3 lb-ft torque. Once the bike had time to cool down, Ed removed the stock exhaust system from the bike. The 02 sensors were unplugged and the mounting flanges were removed.
3. Once the stock pipes were...
3. Once the stock pipes were off the bike, Ed removed both of the 02 sensors, he will re-install them onto the new V&H head pipe.
4. With the head pipe still...
4. With the head pipe still off the bike, Ed installed all the heat shields first. It is easier to adjust and tighten all the clamps from the back of the pipe off the bike.
5. Next, with a dab of anti-seize,...
5. Next, with a dab of anti-seize, Ed re-installed both the 02 sensors into the head pipe.
6. Then Ed installed the...
6. Then Ed installed the new V&H brackets, the first one bolted to the back lower mounting bolts for the oil bag. This is where the cross-under pipe for the rear (left side) cylinder pipe will get its support. The second bracket was bolted to the two lower transmission bolts.