4 into 4 or 4 into 1. Opinions?

[Slantyface]

Hey guys. Picked up a 78' CB550K and it has the stock 4 into 4 pipes on it. I can't decide if should keep the original stuff on there. It's in decent condition, but its just makes the bike look like it has a whole lot going on...What are your guys opinions? Is there going to be an advantage or disadvantage to changing it up?

 

[carnivorous chicken]

I dig the look of stock 4-4 pipes on the SOHC fours. They are getting more and more rare to see in decent shape, and I think they look cool. IF the bike runs well now, might be worth keeping it stock. I do dig 4-1 set ups too...

Edit: Ah... went back and read this. They're stock pipes from a '78 CB550? That's more complicated because, well, they're kinda ugly when compared to the earlier years (I think they changed in 1976 or 1977).

 

[VonYinzer]

I enjoy the look of a proper 4-1 quite a bit. Swapping to an aftermarket exhaust isn't cheap for these bikes (even the low end MAC system is $400 or more) and will change the characteristics of the motor. How much depends on the system though. The aforementioned MAC will be barely noticeable outside of sound and the obvious looks. A true tuned exhaust such as the Yoshimura set-up will have much more drastic effects on your rev range, low end power delivery and throttle response. The high end systems will also have a real effect on your wallet, as the prices range from a pile of money to holy shit that's more than my bikes worth.

 

[VonYinzer]

Also, keep in mind that swapping to a true performance exhaust will require more than just swapping pipes. You'll likely need to rejet(even if the change is minimal) the carbs at a minimum as the free flowing exhaust system will change the air fuel ratio and needed intake air/fuel mix. Its explained in WAY better detail than I could ever give you by way smarter folks than me in several threads here on DTT. Search around a bit and you'll find some great info.

 

[surffly]

4-4 is great. I live the performance, look and sound.

Deal to be had is on the yoshi reps.
Chris at motogpwerks makes killer pipes in SS for a little more then the junk Mac pipes.
Last I checked he was under $500 for a SS pipe.

Carpy has someone new (no longer Chris) making his yoshi reps.
He has been selling them super cheap. I'm sure they need some "fitment" but for sub $300 it might be something to look into.
While I know Carly's father invented the cafe racer in the 50s with a Honda cb750, I don't care for his attitude some times.

 

[Slantyface]

The four pipe look has grown on me since I was first looking at the bike. Originally I was thinking they had to go, but there aren't a huge number of good original systems left from what I understand. I might progress with the build a little bit and see how things look later on.