Increase Power, Not Noise

[Tom Ludolff]

I just bought a 2003 KDX 220R. The low end power is pretty good for a 2 stroke, but I'd like to make it better. Everyone always says a new pipe and silencer is the best first step. However, I like the quiet stock silencer. Could I increase my low end by changing the pipe but keeping the stock silencer? What kind of pipe would be best? All suggestions are greatly appreciated. :think:

 

[fatty_k]

Do a search for the best pipe. And yes, the new pipe will work perfect with the stock silencer. Aftermarket silencers don't do much, except add noise and reduce weight.

 

[Jim Crenca]

The factory pipe isn't as good as aftermarket, is heavy, but is much quieter than aftermarket. Silencers don't make as much of a change IMO.

 

[jeffw]

I just bought a used FMF spark arrester and I think its as quiet as the stock unit and only weighs 3 lbs or so. I'd guess the stock unit is 7-8 lbs.

I haven't noticed any difference in power.

 

[keith500r]

I wish everyone wanted to go quiet.. I got a FMF -Q spark arrestor for mine and its 93db or lower. about the same as stock, noise and power. except for how long it is I really like it.

 

[dirt bike dave]

If you must keep the bike as quiet as stock, your options are limited. Instead of changing the pipe, add a larger rear sprocket or drop 1 tooth off the front - it will feel like you have more low end.

 

[cweingartz]

I bought a moose reed spacer for mine that added a ton of low end power. My bike is a 92 and it has the FMF k-14 pipe on it. Just a thought.

 

[canyncarvr]

re: everyone always says...

Whew! That leaves me out!

First thing you do is what costs the less and gives you the most benefit.

Rejet. Check here:

http://justkdx.dirtrider.net

..for starting points for your bike.

Pipe'll certainly give you a big kick. Which, you ask? Certainly any sort of looking 'round this site gets you the idea that it's 100% personal choice. In the FmF line, -30 (rev) if you want to help out the restricted top-end of the 220, -35 (torque) if you want even MORE on the bottom than you've got now.

The -35 is a whole lot smaller pipe, btw. The -30 is a glass chin just hanging out there waiting to get whacked!

Another 'everybody always...' I thought the addition of my PC S/A made a BIG improvement in bottom-end tractable power.

The -30 is louder than the -35, too.

imho

...and k-14 won't fit on your bike......

Cheers!

 

[The Axman]

I went with the -35 and the Turbine Core II S/A. The difference in power is incredible. Jetting is critical to take full advantage of all available power. Ax

 

[Tom Ludolff]

Thanks for all the great suggestions everybody!!! I'm printing them out right now!! Regarding jetting, it's in the 50'sF right now in PA. I noticed a big increase in power by raising my pilot and main jets 1 step richer from stock. After reading the NGK spark plug info., I understand that colder air is more dense and causes the mixture to go lean. I'm guessing in the summer I may need to go back to stock jetting a step leaner. Is this typically the way it works? Thanks Again!!