The Kawasaki Concours 14, a high-performance sport-touring motorcycle, is known for its power, reliability, and smooth ride. However, for riders who seek even more performance, improved sound, and a sleek appearance, upgrading to an aftermarket Concours 14 exhaust system is an excellent choice. In this article, we review some of the top-rated exhaust systems for the Kawasaki Concours 14 to help you make an informed decision.
Why Upgrade the Concours 14 Exhaust System?
Before diving into the reviews, it’s important to understand the benefits of replacing the stock exhaust:
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Performance Boost: Aftermarket exhausts can enhance horsepower and torque.
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Weight Reduction: Most are significantly lighter than OEM parts.
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Improved Sound: Many riders prefer the deep, throaty tone aftermarket systems provide.
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Aesthetics: Custom exhausts offer a sleeker, more aggressive look.
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Customization: Riders can choose the level of loudness, material, and finish.
Best Concours 14 Exhaust Systems Reviewed
Below are some of the top exhaust systems currently popular among Kawasaki Concours 14 owners.
Two Brothers Racing Black Series Slip-On
Performance and Sound
Two Brothers Racing offers a performance-driven slip-on system that is both aggressive in tone and lightweight in design. The Black Series features a carbon fiber canister, aluminum end cap, and a Teflon-coated magnesium end cap. This system enhances mid-range torque and produces a deep, growling exhaust note.
Key Features
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Carbon fiber construction
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Improved mid-range performance
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Deep, aggressive sound
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Lightweight design
Pros
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Sleek design and durable materials
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Simple slip-on installation
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Noticeable sound and performance improvement
Cons
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On the louder side (not ideal for long-distance touring without earplugs)
Delkevic Slip-On Exhaust System
Performance and Value
Delkevic is known for offering quality exhausts at a budget-friendly price point. Their slip-on kit for the Concours 14 includes stainless steel mid-pipes and a variety of muffler choices, including carbon fiber, stainless, and titanium.
Key Features
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Multiple muffler materials
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Bolt-on installation
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Lightweight and corrosion-resistant
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Affordable pricing
Pros
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Excellent value for the money
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Great sound quality without excessive volume
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Choice of styles and finishes
Cons
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Less brand prestige than competitors
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Moderate performance gain compared to premium models
Akrapovič Slip-On Line
High-End Engineering
Akrapovič is a premier name in motorcycle exhausts, and their Concours 14 slip-on is a testament to that reputation. Crafted from titanium, it is extremely lightweight, offers a modest performance gain, and features a refined sound profile. While it is one of the more expensive options, the quality and engineering are top-notch.
Key Features
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Titanium construction
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EC/ECE approved
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Unique hexagonal muffler design
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Reduced weight and improved throttle response
Pros
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Premium build quality
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Legal for street use in many regions
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Lightweight and stylish
Cons
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High price tag
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Limited sound customization
Muzzy Performance Exhaust System
Built for Performance
Muzzy’s full exhaust system is aimed at riders who are serious about maximizing the performance of their Concours 14. It’s a complete system that includes headers and a performance muffler, significantly reducing weight and improving flow.
Key Features
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Full system replacement
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Stainless steel headers and muffler
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Notable horsepower gains
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Available with optional quiet core
Pros
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Significant performance enhancement
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Durable construction
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Optional tuning options for even more gains
Cons
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Requires more installation time than slip-ons
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Louder than most stock replacements
Yoshimura R-77 Slip-On
Sporty Style Meets Function
Yoshimura’s R-77 series offers a stylish, performance-enhancing option for Concours 14 riders. The slip-on exhaust has a trapezoidal design and comes in stainless steel or carbon fiber. It is known for a crisp, sporty sound and respectable weight savings.
Key Features
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Trapezoidal canister design
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Carbon fiber end cap
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Bolt-on installation
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Enhanced throttle response
Pros
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Eye-catching design
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Strong reputation for quality
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Easy installation
Cons
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On the pricier side for a slip-on
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Mid-range performance gain
What to Consider When Choosing a Concours 14 Exhaust System
Type: Full System vs. Slip-On
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Slip-On: Easier to install, less expensive, modest performance gains.
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Full System: Includes headers, provides maximum performance, more complex install.
Material
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Carbon Fiber: Lightweight and stylish, slightly more expensive.
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Stainless Steel: Durable and cost-effective, but heavier.
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Titanium: Lightest and most corrosion-resistant, typically the most expensive.
Noise Level
Make sure your choice suits your riding style and local noise regulations. Some systems come with removable baffles or quiet inserts.
Legal Compliance
Check whether the exhaust is street legal in your region, especially if it doesn’t have a catalytic converter or a DB killer.
Installation Tips
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Always ensure the bike is cool before starting installation.
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Use anti-seize on exhaust bolts.
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Retune or re-map the ECU for best performance gains (especially with full systems).
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Keep stock components if you need to revert to original equipment for inspections.
Conclusion
Upgrading to one of the top Concours 14 exhaust systems can dramatically transform your riding experience. Whether you’re looking for more power, a better sound, or a lightweight design, there’s an exhaust option that fits your needs and budget.
For value-conscious riders, the Delkevic slip-on offers great sound and performance without breaking the bank. For premium seekers, the Akrapovič slip-on brings unmatched craftsmanship and subtle refinement. Meanwhile, performance enthusiasts will love the full system from Muzzy, and style-driven riders may gravitate toward the Yoshimura R-77 or Two Brothers Racing Black Series.
Choose based on your goals, riding style, and budget — and you’ll quickly experience the benefits of upgrading your Concours 14 exhaust system.
