At least half the experience of riding a motorcycle is to hear the sound of a growling engine. A powerful sound enhances the experience markedly.

It is important to take into consideration the environment. You shall not interfere unnecessarily, drive carefully.

Different motor types have different sound characters The most common type for a motorcycle engine is an inline four-cylinder four-stroke. But there are many variations. Two-stroke engine has its own special sound. The cylinders can be arranged in V formations so called V-engines. The sound is impressive and similar to that of an V8 engine. Some people say that the sound is rawer than a straight four, which is more balanced.

When I chose my motorcycle the engine type was a decisive factor. My choice landed on a Honda VFR 750 -91. It has a V4 engine without timing chain, it has cogwheels for the camshaft instead. With this configuration it's a very durable engine.

Besides the engine, the type of exhaust system is crucial to get a enjoyable exhaust sound.

This instructable describes how I managed to create the perfect sound for my bike. The sound experience is highly personal, but other people have praised this :) !

Step 1: The Stock Muffler

Stock mufflers often have a very impersonal sound and appearance to suit many personalities and preferences. Sure, if you are satisfied with this sound, it is perfectly okay. But if you want a cooler personal sound the stock muffler need to be replaced or modified.

Sometimes it's enough to just take out the insert to get a more powerful sound. Often this solution resemble the original sound. But it can be a good starting point.

It can be useful to save the original muffler if you are going to sell the motorcycle later. In Sweden, it can be helpful to mount the original muffler when the motorcycle is to be inspected by the authorities.

Step 2: Performance Muffler

Many companies offer custom-made mufflers as a complement to the original. They can be a very good choice, but if you want a unique personal sound, these no alternative.However, these have often slightly better performance than the original and also better than the self-made.

When I bought my motorcycle, I got an extra performance muffler, as you see in the picture above. I have really nothing to complain about but there is clearly a satisfaction to build your own personal muffler.

Step 3: Finding a Muffler to Modify

The easiest way to create a personal sound is to buy a second hand muffler which you then modify.

Second hand muffler can be found on websites such as Ebay or similar. Looking a little, you can find some really cheap ones. It is important to ensure that it fits and that connections are compatible with the rest of the exhaust system.

I chose to purchase a Muffler from a Yamaha YZF 600. For a good and functional solution the muffler should adapt for roughly the same engine size.

Step 4: The Modification

I started by try how the new assembly would be like. By going through several Youtube clips, I could guess how I would do the modification in order to get a good result.

The procedure as follows (see pictures);

Drill the existing rivets for detaching the end pieces.
Locate the delimitation of muffler and marking of were to cut.
Cutting was done with an angle grinder and a hacksaw.
Remounting the end pieces.

I chose to have a completely open large chamber without internal wall. It gives a loud sound without each stroke creates a distinct bang. The nature of the sound is duller and more rumble like.

Step 5: Installation of the Modified Muffler

To begin the installation, I started to make a preliminary attachment. Once everything was in place as I wanted, I drilled holes for mounting. It can be a little tricky to get to the connection of the exhaust pipe to the rest of the system right and tight. I was able to use the existing exhaust clamp for attaching.