Keeping Your ATV Exhaust Quiet
In my opinion, it is becoming more and more important to keep exhaust noise pollution from Quads, UTV's, and ATC's down to a minimum. Not only are our communities being patrolled and monitored for sound pollution, so are our favorite riding areas and local race tracks. We as riders need to make sure we are doing everything we can to not irritate the people around us, who may not enjoy the same recreational activities that we do. There is no quicker way to get our favorite riding area's shut down than to run around full throttle with a super loud exhaust. It only takes a couple complaints to the authorities before they take action and shut the area down.
So what options do we have to get the power we want while maintaining an acceptable sound level? Here are a couple options on how to quiet your ATV exhaust:
1. Buy an aftermarket ATV silencer add on that attaches to the end of your exhaust. This isn't the best looking option but will certainly work to quiet things down.
2. Buy a stealth ATV exhaust system. Stealth ATV exhaust systems are typically slip on exhaust systems that replace your existing muffler. since this replaces your existing exhaust, it is your best option for long term use. There is no tip to come loose and fall off. Also typically a stealth exhaust system won't noticeably affect your performance over stock.
While all these options are great for silencing your ATV, none of them are very desirable when it comes to getting the most performance. With all this in mind, most ATV performance exhaust companies have realized this and begun making quieter high performance exhaust alternatives. Some examples are the FMF quiet series, DMC afterburner, HMF Quiet Race Series, FMF Q series. A lot of these aftermarket exhausts come with "quiet core" inserts that allow you to choose between maximum performance and lower sound levels. With this new breed of ATV and UTV exhaust systems we can be sure to get the best balance between power and sound.
