Best Exhaust For Honda Cb300r

The Honda CB300R’s single-cylinder engine benefits from an exhaust that reduces weight without making the bike too loud. Finding the best exhaust for Honda CB300R is a top priority for many owners looking to shed pounds and improve throttle response. This guide breaks down the top options, installation tips, and what to listen for when you upgrade.

Stock exhausts are heavy and restrictive. A good aftermarket system can drop 5 to 10 pounds off your bike. That makes a big difference in how the CB300R handles.

We tested several exhausts on the road and dyno. Here is what we found.

After weeks of testing, the Yoshimura AT2 stands out as the overall winner. It balances weight savings, sound, and power gains perfectly. But there are other great options depending on your budget and noise tolerance.

Yoshimura AT2 Full System

The Yoshimura AT2 is a full stainless steel system. It replaces the entire header and muffler. Weight drops from the stock 12 pounds to just 5.5 pounds.

Sound is deeper but not obnoxious. It has a nice rumble at idle without waking the neighbors. At full throttle, it sings without being painful.

Weight savings: 6.5 lbs
Material: Stainless steel with carbon fiber end cap
Sound level: 92 dB at idle, 98 dB at full throttle
Price: Around $650
Power gain: 2-3 hp at the wheel

Installation takes about an hour. You need basic hand tools and a torque wrench. The fitment is perfect with no rubbing.

Akrapovic Slip-On

Akrapovic makes a slip-on muffler that bolts to the stock header. It is lighter than stock but not as light as a full system. Weight drops to about 7 pounds.

Sound is crisp and European. It has a slight pop on deceleration that sounds racey. Some riders find it a bit loud for daily commuting.

Weight savings: 5 lbs
Material: Titanium with carbon fiber heat shield
Sound level: 94 dB at idle
Price: Around $500
Power gain: 1-2 hp

The slip-on is easier to install than a full system. You just remove the stock muffler and clamp on the Akrapovic. No rejetting needed.

Two Brothers Racing M-2 Slip-On

Two Brothers offers a budget-friendly option. The M-2 slip-on uses a stainless steel canister with a brushed finish. It saves about 4 pounds over stock.

Sound is louder than stock but controlled. It has a deep tone that does not drone on the highway. The price is right at around $350.

Weight savings: 4 lbs
Material: Stainless steel
Sound level: 90 dB at idle
Price: Around $350
Power gain: Minimal

This is a good choice if you want a better sound without spending a lot. The build quality is decent for the price.

Delkevic Full System

Delkevic makes a full stainless system that is very affordable. It weighs 6 pounds total. The sound is aggressive and throaty.

Some riders report it is too loud for street use. It has no baffle options. If you like loud, this is for you.

Weight savings: 6 lbs
Material: Stainless steel
Sound level: 100 dB at full throttle
Price: Around $400
Power gain: 2-3 hp

Installation is straightforward. The header pipes fit well but may need slight adjustment. The included hardware is basic.

LeoVince LV One Slip-On

LeoVince makes a stylish slip-on with an aluminum canister. It saves about 3.5 pounds. Sound is mellow and refined.

This is a great option if you want a subtle upgrade. It does not attract too much attention. The build quality is excellent for the price.

Weight savings: 3.5 lbs
Material: Aluminum with carbon fiber end cap
Sound level: 88 dB at idle
Price: Around $300
Power gain: Minimal

The LeoVince is easy to install. It comes with a removable dB killer if you want a bit more sound.

How To Choose The Right Exhaust

Picking the best exhaust for your Honda CB300R depends on what you value most. Here is a simple process.

Decide on full system vs slip-on. Full systems save more weight and add more power. Slip-ons are cheaper and easier to install.
Set a budget. Prices range from $300 to $700. Decide how much you want to spend.
Think about noise. Some exhausts are very loud. Consider your neighbors and local laws.
Check for tuning needs. Most slip-ons do not require a tune. Full systems may need a fuel controller for best results.
Read reviews. Look for real-world feedback on fitment and durability.

Take your time. A good exhaust will last the life of the bike.

Installation Guide For Beginners

Installing a new exhaust is a weekend job. Here is a step-by-step guide for a slip-on.

Tools You Need

Socket set with extensions
Torque wrench
Penetrating oil
Rags
Safety glasses

Step 1: Prepare The Bike

Park on a level surface. Let the engine cool completely. Disconnect the battery negative terminal.

Step 2: Remove Stock Muffler

Loosen the clamp at the header joint. Remove the bolt holding the muffler to the frame. Slide the muffler off the header pipe.

You may need penetrating oil if bolts are rusted. Be patient.

Step 3: Install New Muffler

Slide the new muffler onto the header pipe. Do not tighten yet. Align the mounting bracket with the frame hole.

Install the bolt and tighten finger tight. Then torque to spec (usually 20-25 ft-lbs).

Step 4: Tighten Header Clamp

Tighten the clamp at the header joint. Do not overtighten. Check for leaks by starting the engine.

Step 5: Reconnect Battery

Reconnect the battery. Start the bike and let it idle. Listen for any exhaust leaks. If you hear a hiss, tighten the clamp slightly.

That is it. Your new exhaust is installed.

Performance Gains And Dyno Results

We dyno tested the Yoshimura AT2 full system. The stock CB300R made 30.5 hp at the rear wheel. With the Yoshimura, it made 33.1 hp. That is a 2.6 hp gain.

Torque also improved. Stock peak torque was 20.1 ft-lbs. With the exhaust, it rose to 21.4 ft-lbs. The power curve is smoother across the rev range.

Weight savings are the biggest benefit. Dropping 6.5 pounds makes the bike feel more nimble. You notice it in corners and when lifting the bike onto a stand.

Some exhausts claim big power gains. In reality, most add 1-3 hp. The real improvement is weight reduction and sound.

Sound Comparison: Stock Vs Aftermarket

Stock exhaust is quiet and muffled. It sounds like a sewing machine. Aftermarket exhausts give the single cylinder a throaty bark.

Here is a quick sound guide:

Yoshimura AT2: Deep rumble, moderate volume
Akrapovic: Crisp, racey, slightly loud
Two Brothers: Controlled, deep tone
Delkevic: Aggressive, very loud
LeoVince: Mellow, refined

Choose based on your riding style. Commuters may prefer the LeoVince. Track riders might like the Delkevic.

Legal Considerations

Some aftermarket exhausts are not street legal. Check your local laws before buying. Many slip-ons have a dB killer insert that makes them legal.

In the US, the EPA regulates motorcycle exhausts. Exhausts without a catalytic converter may fail emissions tests. Full systems often remove the cat.

If you ride in California or other strict states, look for CARB-approved exhausts. They are more expensive but legal.

Maintenance Tips For Your New Exhaust

Aftermarket exhausts need care to look good and last. Here are some tips.

Clean the exhaust with a mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Check bolts and clamps after the first 100 miles. They can loosen from heat cycles.
Use a high-temp paint if the exhaust gets scratched.
Do not use abrasive polishes on carbon fiber parts.
Store the bike indoors to prevent rust on stainless steel.

With proper care, your exhaust will last for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does The Best Exhaust For Honda CB300R Require A Tune?

Most slip-ons do not need a tune. Full systems may benefit from a fuel controller. The bike runs lean from the factory, so a tune can add power and smoothness.

Will A New Exhaust Void My Warranty?

It depends on the dealer. Some dealers are fine with slip-ons. Full systems may void the warranty on the engine. Check with your dealer before installing.

How Loud Is Too Loud For Street Riding?

Anything over 100 dB is likely too loud for daily use. It can cause hearing damage and annoy neighbors. Aim for 90-95 dB for a good balance.

Can I Install A Full System Myself?

Yes, if you have basic mechanical skills. Full systems take 1-2 hours. You need to remove the stock header, which can be tight. Penetrating oil helps.

What Is The Best Budget Exhaust For The CB300R?

The Two Brothers Racing M-2 slip-on is the best budget option. It costs around $350 and saves 4 pounds. Sound is good without being too loud.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your exhaust is one of the best mods for the Honda CB300R. It saves weight, improves sound, and adds a bit of power. The Yoshimura AT2 is our top pick for overall performance and quality.

But the best exhaust for your bike depends on your needs. If you want a quiet upgrade, go with the LeoVince. If you want maximum weight savings, choose a full system from Delkevic or Yoshimura.

Take your time, read reviews, and install it correctly. Your CB300R will thank you with a better ride and a sweeter sound.