V&H StraightShots Wrapped?

[BlackBikeDave]

Hello Forum,
2003 xl1200c. I want to wrap my straitshots because of scratches on the chrome. I have read to not include the header heat shields(though it would look cool).
Few Questions before I start ordering parts.



Design Engineering Inc. looks to be the best brand. Opinions?



What length of 2" do I need to wrap the entire length of each pipe from the head to end of muffler?


Is Titanium the way to go by not having to use sealer?


Also in 2019 have they been able to keep the black wrap from fading? (Just what I've read in older posts. I'd like to use the Black but not if its gonna fade in 6 months.)


How well does the wrap hold up after getting rained on?


Any experience with this welcome

Thank you

[motorend]

Wrapped pipes were done to create a scavenging affect, thus boosting the temperature of the exhaust itself. I just want you to know that it's probably the worst thing you can do if your looking for some mileage out of your exhaust. The increased heat can cause the exhaust to crack and degrade. I only know this from reading about it, as I was once to interested. And most pictures I've seen of wrapped exhausts don't hold up over time. They kinda create a rat rod look.

[jharback]

Originally Posted by motorend

Wrapped pipes were done to create a scavenging affect, thus boosting the temperature of the exhaust itself. I just want you to know that it's probably the worst thing you can do if your looking for some mileage out of your exhaust. The increased heat can cause the exhaust to crack and degrade. I only know this from reading about it, as I was once to interested. And most pictures I've seen of wrapped exhausts don't hold up over time. They kinda create a rat rod look.

Spot on!

[BlackBikeDave]

That's ok. After a few accidents I have the extra parts. I will eventually get a 2 into 1 when I can pack the coin away for it. I've read about the degredation and the worn look of the wrap. I'm all in to do it.
As I've read through posts stretching back 12 years, the DEI brand rates best. 2" is the width to go. Haven't seen any recent posts regarding the black tape and the black sealant and its longevity. I'd like the black if it doesn't turn grey. If it does I might as well go with Titanium but then I read there is no need to put sealant on it. Pro/Con? Length I would need still in question.

[Toejam503]

I've considered wrapping in the past and everyone I talked to said the pipes rust rather quickly, especially if you ride in the rain or wash your bike a lot. Motorend is right on about the heating up and help with scavenging. Buying the cheaper wrap, the wrap doesn't like to stay tight.

[sportsterpaul]

All three of my Sporty’s are wrapped. In close to 300,000 miles, no rust. One pipe hade a fracture caused from the mount, not wrap. The 2000”C” has over 80,000 on its wrap but in truth is getting ready for a second fitment. On the 2004”R”, I noticed a marked reduction in heat felt at my right upper leg. And yes the black will fade over time, I apply another can of high temp paint every couple of years, use the whole can, the more the better. The pipe will smoke upon start up, typical, and you will get steam when it is wet. Of course my three must be the exception but f.w.i.w. I believe most of the detractors were running drag pipes, some of the least expensive pipes availible and of lesser quality.

[BlackBikeDave]

Well here is a calculator I found for estimating the length of wrap needed.
https://designengineering.com/calculator/

I'm gonna go DEI Black 2" with 1/2" overlap and spray them after the moisture gets steamed out. Also leaving the shields on and wrapping over. Might as well since I have 2 sets of scratched up V&H straight shots. I'll keep up on the progression here.