PRODUCT TEST: Yamaha Raptor 700 Dual Exhaust

When upgrading the exhaust on your machine, there are a lot of options out there—from slip-on systems to full systems and even dual-exhaust systems. We recently got our hands on a dual exhaust from Barker’s Performance to install on a 2015 Yamaha Raptor 700. The muffler is made of 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum and comes standard in a brushed aluminum finish.

INSTALL
To start with the install of the new exhaust system, we had to remove the stock exhaust and header. After removing the stock system, we started with test fitting the new 304 stainless steel 1 7/8-inch header. To make this easier, we removed the front fenders. When we got the header routed into the location, we had to remove one bolt that holds the clutch cable adjuster on the engine case and reinstall it to hold the header. At this point the head pipe splits in two pieces, and the second section routes in front of the rear shock, then turns back toward the rear of the quad. To mount the new dual exhaust, you simply slip the mounts over the muffler and remove one bolt on the rear grab bar on each side and slip the mufflers onto the header and line up the mount to the desired mounting location to install the bolt you removed earlier. Barker’s recommends you purchase a fuel programmer if you don’t already own one to adjust how much fuel your motor will take in now with the higher exhaust flow. We installed a Power Commander PC5 to help us fine-tune our fuel and ignition settings. When installing any fuel programmer, follow the instructions supplied, as installation methods can vary depending on models.

VERDICT
With the install of the new dual exhaust, we noticed a big gain in torque and horsepower. We didn’t get a chance to test this on a dyno to get an exact reading of what horsepower and torque numbers are gained, but Barker’s claims to add 10 horsepower over stock. With the added torque gains, we noticed it made ascending hills a breeze. With a mild tune, we achieved 4 mph over stock and feel that with more time tuning, we can get another 2 mph on the top speed. You can have the cans powdercoated in black, blue or red ceramic coating, and for the mounts and name badge to customize the look of your machine. Barker’s Performance has multiple systems—from full-drag systems to slip-on or full dual systems for many popular sport ATVs. During one of our rides we noticed a bracket on the header had cracked. We notified Barker’s, and they sent us a new header the next day. That’s great customer service. This complete dual system will run you $899. If you’d like to purchase a new exhaust for your machine, you can contact Barker’s Performance at (989) 269-6921 or visit www.barkerexhaust.com.