For simplicity & assurance that you'll end up with an exhaust that'll work, that would be the way to go. I think we all agree that Jamie & crew have good products. I chose the other way just for the fun of it. I got two complete exhaust systems & the services of the welder for just slightly less than Jamie's headers would have cost me. If I become dissatisfied with the system without the cat I'll go back to the one with the cat & still have a spare muffler. In fact, if I had not wanted the 2 into 1 system, & had been interested in making only one change I would have bought Jamie's headers.

 

i cut mine open and removed the cat and welded it back. i was shocked at the density of the material in there. i put cvo mufflers on it also. i wanted to keep it quiet. my bike is stock otherwise. it did help a lot on the heat factor. i wanted to try this way first, then if any problems i'd order a catless headpipe. i've rode it a couple of months this way and plan on leaving this way. satisfied with the results and cost... $0

 

Just dangle a mouse at the end of the pipe, the cat will run right out after it.

Sorry Couldn't resist.