Topic: 1973 cb500 k2 exhaust options

[manjisann]

I have a 73 cb500 that has the factory original 4 into 4 exhaust.  Idealy I would like to keep that set up, but the ones on it are rusted in spots and one is missing its baffle, so I am afraid it won't pass safety. I wish I could afford another set, but that is cost prohibitive. So, does anyone know of somewhere I can get a good 4 into 2 set?  Also, if I do something like that, am I gonna have to rejet my carbs?  I just bought this bike and I am trying to get it up and running and it is already gonna cost me $400 in parts and labor to get a tune up and the forks changed, so I am about out of money. Also, where are some good sources for used parts, maybe I can just pick up the one pipe and muffler I need?  Thanks, and sorry if this is a bit jumbled, this is my first motorcycle.

Brandon

[bryanj]

Pipes come up on ebay but regularly sell for more than new price from Dave Silver!.

Lots of systems on ebay, 550 up to and including 76 will fit.

REMEMBER if you ever want to go back to originals keep the mounting brackets as they dont come with the exhausts

[manjisann]

bryanj, thanks for the info and advice.  I found some on dennis kirk that are a 4 into 2 mac slip on and asked mac about them and was told they wouldn't require any modification to my carbs, and they are only about $230. Hooray!

[manjisann]

   also, do I need to get new exhaust gaskets or anything?

[greenjeans]

Yep, pick up some new exhaust gaskets...they aren't re-usable.  At least they are relatively cheap
and your local cycle shop will probably have some in stock.