Titanium Exhausts
If you've been considering a titanium exhaust system upgrade, you would be joining most lovers of motorsports who have already upped their game with this great product.
But should you go for a titanium exhaust?
Sports car exhaust systems made from titanium can be pricey compared to the regular stainless-steel exhaust. Still, there are many benefits, including improved sports car performance, aesthetics, durability, lightweight, and great appearance.
Compared to steel, titanium can be more readily hammered into thin sheets to form many shapes utilised in the manufacturing process. This metal can be water cut and heat cut, and transformed into several products, including titanium exhaust piping.
Titanium exhausts for motorcycles
Aside from cars, titanium has other features that make them suitable for motorcycles. Heat dissipation in titanium is highly effective than that of steel, plus its cooling is instantaneous. This is why a titanium motorcycle exhaust will not be bent or twisted out of shape under too much heat. For a rider using a titanium exhaust motorcycle, self-burns will not be a problem as they are riding. And of course, the appeal of titanium is worthy of mention. Unlike exhausts from stainless steel that are available in dull or polished silver colour, titanium boasts of beautiful azure, purple and gold shades - another reason for choosing titanium exhaust pipe for motorcycle.
Stainless Steel Exhausts
As a manufacturing material, stainless steel is known for its corrosion-resistant, superb high temperature and non-magnetic properties. This is why they excel in use for producing exhaust and header systems. They're called stainless steel because they are alloys of steel with a chromium content of 12 per cent. The chromium-nickel grade of stainless steel is widely used in race cars and bikes because of the nickel content.
There are differences between titanium and stainless steel. Cosmetically, titanium is more attractive than steel but are pricey. Steel is heavier than titanium, but the latter has more strength. And for sound, titanium exhaust has thin walls that produce a very raspy note. The cost difference between these two exhaust systems is significant.
Mass producing bikes with titanium exhaust are costly, though the material is a great preference. However, titanium appeals to many because of its lesser weight and aesthetics. So, stainless steel exhaust is mostly used for their relative affordability.
Exhaust systems differ based on the material used. While the choice is personal when it's about selecting what type of exhaust to use, it is critical to know how aluminium differs from stainless steel as an exhaust material. The main difference between these systems is the process of production. Others to consider in stainless steel vs aluminium exhaust include:
- Aluminium is lightweight, economical, and very workable
- Steel is stronger, heat- and corrosion-resistant
Each one is unique, it depends on your need and choice.
Stainless Steel Exhaust Sound
Several factors determine how an exhaust will sound. This includes the type of material and muffler, exhaust tuning, lengths of resonators and flow restrictions. So, does stainless steel exhaust sound better? The sound from stainless steel exhaust is close to that of a mild steel exhaust, however, steel has improved airflow because the systems are mandrel-bent. Steel-produced exhausts are a good cost-effective option.
One may also want to consider titanium exhaust sound vs stainless steel. Due to its reduced density compared to steel, the sound titanium produces is more like a top-quality metal. This is because the system is made of thin walls, so the sound is loud and clear.
Does titanium exhaust sound different? The simple answer is yes!
Standard cars with titanium exhausts will sound like luxury cars! Titanium is strong and at the same time light in weight, between 40 to 50 per cent less than steel. And because they come in ultra-thin tubing, they release an aggressive, rich exhaust note which counts for titanium vs stainless steel exhaust sound.
So, if the sound is important for your choice of exhaust, you can make a better choice now that you know stainless steel vs titanium exhaust sound.
Motorcycle Exhaust Brands
Getting an exhaust system for your bike may not be easy, especially if you're a newbie when it comes to bike exhausts. The right choice is essential to upgrade your motorcycle's performance, sound, and appearance.
Full Titanium Exhausts
A full titanium exhaust is much appreciated by racers, especially where weight matters. Thanks to the very high strength-to-weight ratio of titanium, it can equal the strength of steel even with its lesser weight. And the minimal weight of titanium enhances the operation, acceleration, and general performance of the race car or bike.
Still leveraging on its lesser weight, the sound of a full titanium exhaust is very different from that of a steel exhaust. The tone is exactly that of a premier race car: metallic!
Titanium Exhausts are designed with protection against deterioration in mind as they don't allow rust and decay to set in on the component. And they can withstand early wear and tear too.
Titanium Exhaust Tubing
If you're looking for an exhaust capable of resisting corrosion very well, then you need titanium exhaust tubing. They are also notorious for great welding features and very tough to withstand high-level impact.
Titanium Exhaust Tips
This accessory can make your vehicle's tailpipe attractive. With titanium exhaust tips, your vehicle exhaust note will be deeper. Debunk the idea that it will make your car sound louder; factors like exhaust length can only change the note. How can you tell? Sometimes only the tip of a titanium exhaust is made of titanium. They will be bolted or riveted to the length of the pipe.
Titanium Exhaust Pros
Yes, some bonuses come with a titanium exhaust. Whilst there are some drawbacks, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
- Cosmetic appeal. Though beauty isn't that much of a priority, it matters when performance is in play. Titanium exhaust releases a blueish hue at the tailpipe's end, making it really stunning.
- Durable and reliable. Titanium exhaust is your go-to for freedom from stain, corrosion, and rust. With the high strength of titanium, you can have a long-lasting exhaust
- Safety. Because titanium can drive away heat, it is a safe component for motorcyclists as the risk of burning is reduced. Not only that, titanium exhaust cools more rapidly compared to steel exhaust
- Improved performance. The speed of the motorcycle or vehicle can be increased rapidly with titanium exhaust.
- Better resistance. There is no untimely wear and tear with titanium exhaust. Even rust and damage is kept at bay by the strength and rigidity of this material. It also balances power and flows very well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a full titanium exhaust cost?
Titanium is an automotive material that's highly advanced. This is why most titanium exhausts are fabricated based on certain types of vehicles.
The type of motorcycle or car and the brand, plus your needs, determine the cost of a titanium exhaust.
Why is a titanium exhaust better?
A titanium exhaust delivers the best overall performance for any vehicle because of its incredible characteristics. Titanium is a silver coloured metallic chemical element with low density and high strength. It's more reliable, durable, releases heat quickly, cools instantly, and is less prone to damage.
Is titanium exhaust louder?
The answer is simply yes. Because the exhaust walls are ultra-thin, the tone is often loud and clear.
What does a titanium exhaust do?
Keeps the exhaust from wearing down early, rusting and decaying.
Are titanium exhausts worth it?
Titanium is around 40% lighter than steel, emits a different tone, and makes a vehicle unique. Their durability and resistance to deterioration make them a more preferred exhaust option.
Is titanium better than stainless steel exhaust?
Corrosion can happen in stainless steel exhaust, but titanium offers more rigidity and strength. Both power and flow are efficient in titanium, and there's no breach in the exhaust functionality.
Does titanium change the exhaust colour?
Yes, and that's because of its lightweight compared to stainless steel. This gives a more luxurious metallic tone.
The exhaust turns a blue shade when heated. Polishing is required if the colour should change.
Do titanium exhausts turn blue?
Yes. Due to the heating of titanium, the exhaust turns blue - a mixture of oxides of titanium. Following research, atmospheric heating of titanium for 30 minutes at 200°C gives titanium a silver-white colour. It turns light yellow when heated to 300°C, golden yellow at 400°C, blue at 500°C, purple at 600°C, greyish red at 700 to 800°C, and grey at 900°C. This colour transition is awesome!
Need more help or have any other questions about titanium exhausts? Contact the expert team at Vandemon Performance today. We are happy to assist you with your motorcycle and car exhaust requirements.