DMC Afterburner Quiet Dirt Bike Exhaust System Review - Real Rider Tested

DMC Afterburner Quiet Exhaust System

Even though I've owned and ridden KTM's line of various enduro and cross-country bikes over the years, I'm still not too familiar with aftermarket exhaust systems available for them. However, since my new bike is a KTM 450 XC, it has no spark arrestor and in stock form is "closed course-only." In order for to be legal for a local grand prix, I chose the DMC Afterburner Quiet Exhaust as it is USFS-legal spark arrestor. Mounting the muffler was quick and completely hassle-free, a perfect slip-on fit. Meeting the mandatory sound test requirements was a cinch with a 94-decibel reading at the sound check. The exhaust note was decidedly quieter than even the long stock KTM muffler. The shape and appearance drew many compliments throughout a weekend of racing. It seems the triangular shape and the trick, stainless steel, stamped end-cap make it an eye-catcher. Performancewise, the exhaust was adequate with only a minor reduction in low-end power--not a problem on the 450 XC. In fact, the exhaust made the power more controllable on the dry, slick hardpack of the Hungry Valley SVRA. Minor jetting changes included reducing the pilot jet from 45 to 42 and moving the needle down one position. The main jet remained stock. If you're in the market for a performance-yielding, lightweight spark arrestor with a civilized exhaust note, then the $329.95 Afterburner Quiet Exhaust is a wise choice. -Jason Gardner