It's been a while since I have posted in this thread. My carbs are back together and ready to be mounted. I am still wrestling with what do do about a seat and whether to chop the frame a bit to allow for a more traditional, flatter seat position.
The biggest issue has been the exhaust system. I had decided to try the MAC Performance TT Exhaust system, which is sold by Niche Cycles. However, in early August, their site showed it being out of stock. So, I searched and found the MAC Performance website and they showed that it was IN STOCK for the same price. I ordered it and received the invoice for the order via email. Then..... NOTHING! No status updates, no shipping details, etc. After 3 weeks I started emailing, calling, leaving voice mails, etc., they have NEVER contacted me. (SO, BUYER BEWARE!)
I decided to go back to Niche Cycles and ask them if they have had a bad experience with MAC, or if they had a contact person/number I could call to get an actual person. In that process, I discovered that the TT System was now IN STOCK on their site. So, I canceled the MAC order (via email) and ordered the system from Niche.
http://www.nichecycle.com/ncs/categ...xs650-tt-exhaust-w-reverse-cone-m-144035.html
The kit arrived in good time, but upon opening the package it had blemishes in the chrome finish from the factory (under the protective packaging). Niche was willing to give me a "blem discount". However, when I started to actually mount the system, the welded on muffler mounting brackets do not line up with any possible mounting point on my frame. I am in the process of returning the entire kit as I do not believe it was designed for this year/model.
So, I am in need of recommendations for an exhaust system! I am looking for an "open flow", 2-into-2 system with reverse cone style mufflers (short or long) for a more traditional cafe racer look. I prefer a slight upsweep for the mufflers similar to the photo below. I would also prefer a more raw stainless look over bright shiny chrome... but I can go either way... maybe even black ceramic coated. I don't mind them being "louder" than stock... I'm looking more for the performance boost.
Also, I do like the sound of the headers and Yamaha Performance mufflers on the 1977 YamahaXS650D project that I did previous to this one (see thread below)
http://www.xs650.com/threads/mikesxs-electronic-ignition-kit.55090/
I was hoping to get a similar sound/performance but with an upswept look.
Any recommendations, ideas, sources would be much appreciated!
Randy