Got a little seat time with them today.

I have a Thundermax w/autotune and I did not reprogram it after pipe install. It was set-up for stock headers and slip-ons with a Big Sucker a/c. There was no popping on decel, and no backfiring at all, but the engine seemed to run a bit hot. Hopefully the Autotune will optimize itself over the next few miles.

Holy **** did they smoke when I fired it up the first time! I thought that they might catch fire! I'm not exaggerating. It was a scary sight....smelly too.
As far as sound, they're not much louder than my Cycle Shack slip-ons were, especially at idle, but it's a more pleasing sound. The CS slip-ons had a tighter, raspier sound...... and the Big Rads have an open, fuller sound. The Big Rads sound more like a trick muscle car and make the engine sound larger, but IMO the slip ons had a racier sound. Overall, I like the Big Rad sound better.

As far as performance goes....I can't tell any difference. The open sound of the BR's makes it seem like your going faster and harder, but I don't think there is really much difference......maybe that will change with time on the autotune.

I really dig the look! although I'm sure it's not for everyone.

Here's some pics:

 

The big, fat, black single pipe look reminds me of a diesel engine stack....like something you'd see on a Caterpillar dozer......I dig it.

There are a couple minor disappointments I have with the pipe. I mentioned the fragility of the finish....well here's a couple pics of what I meant:

The first is where I rubbed the passenger peg, and the second is where my smooth ratchet extension made contact while tightening the head bolts.







It doesn't take much to scratch this finish, I hope it holds up to normal use.

Also, the fitment of the rear heat shield is a little off.....or maybe it's the rear header heat shield.....either way, there is more of a gap than I'd like to see. Maybe I'll be able to adjust that a little better with more effort, but my first few attempts haven't been very successful. I wasn't expecting that from a $700 pipe.

 

I think with a little adjustment u should be able to improve the fitment on that gap. Very nice! I can't believe the finish is that delicate.

 

I love the pipes. Heat shield also is a bit off on mine, can't get it much closer. Sounds awesome & I'm diggin the whole look. The pipe draws attention to your bike...LOVE IT

 

Lookin real good!

 

nice paint!! lets see some more.

 

I really like the look, I was never much for the look of the 2-1, but after seeing your pics, i'm reconsidering things. Nice ride.

 

These are a great pipe, and I wouldn't hesitate to buy it again.

 

Id get em pc in gloss black...but they do look great on your ride!!

 

I really dig the V&H black 2-1, it looks great! I am looking on the web for a company that will ceramic paint my Python 2-1. From what I understand you don't want to powder coat them.

"Black is where its at" and I'm headed in that direction.
Danny D