imported post
I put a set of Torquemaster pipes on a '99 GL1500 a couple of years back. I had also added the 6 degree trigger wheel and headers from TM in an effort to get more power and fuel economy. This is usually a misnomer( power AND economy) but on the 1500, it worked like a charm. I drive at 120kph when I am on the highway ( 75mph) and the fuel mileage went from barely 30mpg (Imperial gal) to 42-45mpg. The bike sounded great around town and I got a few comments from the folks who drive big twins, mostly positive. For myself though, I found them annoying as hell ( the pipes without baffles) on the highway when I tour, which is most of my driving. ( 20-25,000 kms per year in a 6 month season) I put the baffles in and it quietened(?) the bike down to a nice throaty sound that was acceptable, and still elicited positive comments from most bikers ( Wingers included) who heard it. The only problem was the metal to metal fit when the baffles were in and it gave off a tinny sound on rough paverment or when slowing down. I solved that problem by purchasing muffler grade fibreglass packing and installing a couple of wraps of that over the baffle and then stuffing the whole business back into the bike. This toned it down just a bit more for a thoroughly pleasing sound without affecting the preformance or power gains adversly.
All in all, I would do it again in heatbeat if I ever wind up with another 1500. ( I ride a Vulcan Classic when I feel loud and obnoxious and an 1800 for touring) If you want the power and economy gains without the noise and expense , most likely they could be acheived using the 6 degree trigger wheel and headers and staying with the stock pipes.
Just my humble opinion.
Ride safe everone, but RIDE.
Marty
