Honda CX 500 Forum banner

CX650C exhaust options - what have you used?

1 reading
10K views 14 replies 7 participants last post by  ChopperCharles  
#1 ·
Hi guys,

I'm either terrible at searching, the search function is lacking, or there isn't much on the topic because this was a one year bike. Probably, in that order. I apologize if this is covered and I missed it.

The question(s)... what exhausts have you used on your CX650 Customs other than stock? Have you found any slip ons that you really like? I have head of people using Sportster slip ons. Any jetting required afterward? Maybe remove some baffles from the stock mufflers?

What I'm looking for is a bit louder exhaust over stock, with a lower "growl". Not really looking to mess with the carbs yet, as I'm a noob. It's something I will definitely do later, once I get Larry's carb book though. I have been messing with small engines on karts and mini bikes for years, but none of those have vacuum operated slides on the carbs (even the mikunis I put on), and they're really easy to tune after you've messed with the breath-ability of the engine. For now, my 650 runs good... if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Eh? Maybe just leave it alone?
 
#2 ·
When I built my 650 custom in the UK the chances of getting stock mufflers was nil as the 650c was never sold here. I had a spare pair of sportster cans but found unlike the 500's they wouldn't fit, the H box outlet is way smaller and too close to the frame for the steep flare near the inlet.
I found some new reverse cone cans from a jumble that give a slightly louder sound than stock and I quite like the look.

 
#4 ·
Hi, they were new but in a plain box with no name on them unfortunately, think they are some aftermarket ones, I've seen them on quite a few different bikes. I've still got the standard H box in place and it hasn't altered the mpg just a bit louder, I'll try to find out the make of them.
I think if you retain the original H box you shouldn't have to re-jet.
 
#7 ·
If you aren't married to the H-box you can get Murray's Quick Build piles and use whatever mufflers you want. A lot of us use Harley mufflers on everything because you can usually get brand new ones that were only on the bike from the factory to the dealer cheap.
 
#9 ·
#12 ·
As I understand it, any HD mufflers that don't have catalytic converters will work and even some of those can be used if you remove the cats.
 
#14 ·
FWIW, I was planning to replace the exhaust system on my GoldWing this year and still might if the lockdown is ever lifted (more likely it will wait for next year). When I do I will go to the local Harley aftermarket place and ask if he has any pull off mufflers and choose from what he has available. I'm more interested in function than style but if he has some fishtails they could look nice on the 'Wing.....
 
#15 ·
I took a MAC 2-into-1 for a CX500, cut the downtubes, welded in extension tubes, and used that. Sounded great with a big ole harley muffler hanging off. Painted the welds with header paint and then wrapped it with header wrap to hide my welds. (It was originally a chrome version of the MAC, so it didn't really take to paint readily).

Charles.