Short straight pipes valve damage?

[DoggieRider]

I recently purchased my 03 Mastiff which came with two sets of pipes. I am the third owner. The first owner replaced the factory exhaust with these short downswept pipes in the pic. Second owner put on some Samsons. I just put the downswept pipes back on. There are no baffles in them. Damn they sound good!

My question for those having more expertise on the subject is whether these shorter pipes pose a threat to sucking in cold air on cold days which could warp valves and such?? It seems to run much better with the open pipes on it. I know that less back pressure can make the bike run leaner too which could make it run hotter.

One guy mentioned torque cones to reduce air backflow.

Any input on the subject appreciated!

 

[Reaper]

Good question, although my pipes are even shorter than the set you have. I have the Santee L.A.F pipes, been on there for six years, and haven't had any issues.

 

[DoggieRider]

Thanks Reaper,

That makes me feel better!

 

[stlmikie]

I think you'll be safe as long as you are tuned to the pipe. They are short and will for sure without a doubt lean you out.

 

[Reaper]

Thanks Reaper,

That makes me feel better!

 

[DoggieRider]

I should probably have a tune done. I will put that on the list for next spring. lol

 

[john sachs]

Not a fan of short straight pipes cause they take a ton of low rpm torque away from the motor. :bang: Never saw valve warpage happen. Just have a good tune up, and you should be fine.
John

 

[Vince81]

As John Sachs said before me....
I've never sen any valve damage from Short /Dumper pipes although the torque equation will suffer a bit.
"Force Cones" in the tips would help replace *some* of the torque lost due to the back pressure they create and a bit of restriction to the flow.
Vince

 

[Bobby Schulz]

If you want to run straight pipes you will loose a ton of low/midrange torque.
I would not worry about warping the valves (old urban myth). I suggest getting some baffles and cutting them down so you get the sound you want...Loud and deep but at the same time will give you some low end torque that makes a v twin fun.

 

[Moespeeds]

What they all said! I have run super short pipes on my bikes for years with no ill effects other than the loss of low end. Torque cones help to tune them for sure. If you use torque cones I find it's easier to get a good seal if you use the flat style gaskets instead of the conical type.