Several out there that have come close, but for the price and the quality Patriot is nearly unbeatable. Aaron at Hammer has put up a pretty good data base to make informed decisions about exhaust systems and continues to test. http://xlforum.net/vbportal/forums/f...play.php?f=331

 

Thanks that helps a lot! It looks like the Samson Caliber came the closest, but for the price and the look I like the defender more.

 

It's a shame the Defender hangs so low since it is turning out to be a great pipe.

 

I installed the Vance and Hines 2 into 1 competition exhaust and absolutely love it. Great performance and sound. If you are looking for something with a nice clean look, this is a great pipe.

 

+1
I did the same thing and love it. No clearance issues so far either.

 

I'm wondering if there are charts comparing stock exhaust to Patriot.
Not long ago there was comparison of V&H shortshots with Patriot.. I personally didn't notice much difference. (http://xlforum.net/vbportal/forums/s....php?t=1663883)
After reading a lot of threads, I'm inclining to think this whole exhaust thing seems to be more fashion statement. I guess I like my V&H, if I decide to build cafe racer, I would get RSD. Patriot just looks too big on sporty (IMHO)

 

Is Cobra Exhausts any good? I've never heard of them but then again, I'm also new to the bike scene

 

I've heard that complaint several times. I personally have never grounded mine, but then again I'm not an aggressive corner carver either...more into straight line performance.

Those were my ShortShots that I sent to Aaron to test. The results were surprising to say the least. I bought the Patriot because it was a proven performer...if it was a trogladite looking system I never would have bought it no matter how well it performed. Yeah, looks do matter in most cases for the street driven bike. I would not be above putting the ShortShots back on at some point...they are a great looking exhaust system, well made and I can always remove the baffles for the track. In the end I think what matters most is the quality of the exhaust system you buy...there are many out there with similar performance capabilities.

 

I personally like the look of the Defender, I like the look of the Freedom Outlaw more but the price scares me a bit! I want to get rid of my short shots now.

 

Aw heck...I like them all!