Motorcycle Headers & Link Pipes

What Are Headers & Link Pipes?

Headers are the primary exhaust pipes that connect directly to the engine's exhaust ports. Link pipes connect the headers to the silencer. Together, they form the foundation of the exhaust system.

Performance headers and link pipes are engineered for optimal flow dynamics — larger mandrel-bent tubing, smooth radius bends, and precision welds reduce backpressure and improve exhaust gas velocity.

Types of Headers

• •4-into-1: All four primary pipes merge into a single collector — maximum flow for inline-four sportbikes
• •4-into-2-into-1: Primary pipes merge into two secondary pipes, then into one collector — balanced flow and torque
• •2-into-1: Both cylinders merge into a single pipe — classic V-twin configuration for Harley-Davidson
• •Stepped header: Primary pipe diameter increases in steps to optimise exhaust gas velocity across the RPM range

De-Cat Link Pipes

A de-cat link pipe replaces the catalytic converter section with a straight-through pipe, reducing backpressure and increasing flow. This improves performance but may affect emissions compliance.

Note: De-cat link pipes are recommended for track use only. Road-going motorcycles should retain the catalytic converter to comply with emissions regulations.

Compatible Brands

• •Dominator — Full systems with performance headers for sportbike and adventure
• •Scorpion — Performance headers and link pipes for sportbike
• •Vance & Hines — 2-into-1 headers for Harley-Davidson V-twin
• •Bassani — Stepped-header 2-into-1 systems for Harley-Davidson