I had some similar markings going on with my black V&H Monster Rounds. I took them off and scuffed them down thoroughly with a red Scotch Brite pad and wiped with acetone. Then repainted with black VHT header paint (rattle can, about $8) and did three light, even coats. Let them sit overnight before reinstalling them. Installed and let the bike idle for about 20min to get them nice and warm. Then let cool completely. Took off for a ride and never looked back. They still look like the day I painted them, and several thousand miles ago.

Full disclosure, I do have a "rubbed" spot on the bottom of one of the tips from where my cover rubs against it when parked in my work parking lot. 12hr shifts in a windy parking lot.... but I had to get under the bike to see the spot. Everything else has held up flawlessly. It's all about prep.

Glad you posted this thread!

My pro pipe did the same thing on the muffler body after a year or so. V&H had basically the same response. If I remember right he even said I was lucky to get a year.

This is all good to know. Guess I’ll be finding a reason for mine to be returned before my year is up on the warranty. Not dropping $600 on something that won’t last a year without rusting especially since there was no mention of that fact from them on the front side. I was told by the dealer not to use any polishes on the pipes. Soap and water only. Not sure if that’s accurate now or not. They are Bassani and not the brands mentioned but I suspect finishes are all the same.

Thanks,