My son went to the international bike show and talked with several manufacturers about exhaust slip ons. Some said he he didn't need a new breather and download if all he wanted was the sound. Others said the bike would run bad. He doesn't need more power, just wants the sound. He has a XL1200C, 2009. Can he just put on the V &H short shots without all the other stuff?

 

If all he is looking for is the sound he can. But if he adds a higher flowing intake he will need to boost the fuel with the download or some other fuel management.

If you're unsure, try them out and monitor the plugs. If they show a lean situation you can throw some baffles in there to help.

You can also just pull the baffles that are in his stock slip ons to save some coin. It sounds pretty good like that. I did an 09 XL1200C for a friend of mine and he loves it.

 

I have a 2011 1200custom low sportster. I just put the V&H slip on short shots. I didn't do anythkng else to the bike. I runs fine, no change, but is LOUD. I wanted a louder bike easily. The V&H are great. I can't recommend them enough. So, I put on the slip ons "without all the other stuff" and my bike runs great, just louder. The V&H factory rep told me the stock pipes are 80db, and the slip ons are 93-96 db.

 

I put V & H Straight Shots on my 2007 custom without any other mods. Sounds and runs great. I love them.

 

itll be ok at first but itll burn out the motor waay faster. if he just wants the sound and doesnt want more power or a different look, just take off the baffles of the stock exhaust. itll be louder then.