The Honda CBR300R benefits from an exhaust that reduces weight while keeping noise levels reasonable for daily riding. Finding the Best Exhaust For Honda Cbr300r can transform your bike’s character without making it obnoxious. This guide breaks down the top options, installation steps, and what to look for.
Stock exhausts are heavy and restrictive. Swapping to an aftermarket system drops pounds and lets the engine breathe. You get a sharper throttle response and a more exciting sound.
We tested several exhausts for fit, sound, power, and build quality. Below is the full breakdown to help you choose.
Best Exhaust For Honda Cbr300r
The market offers slip-ons and full systems. Slip-ons replace only the muffler. Full systems replace headers and muffler for maximum weight savings and performance.
Here are the top contenders for the CBR300R.
Akrapovic Slip-On Exhaust
Akrapovic is a premium choice. The titanium construction saves over 4 pounds compared to stock. Sound is deep and sporty but not deafening. It includes a removable db killer for track days.
- Weight savings: 4.2 lbs
- Sound level: 92 dB (with db killer)
- Material: Titanium muffler, carbon fiber end cap
- Price: High
Installation is straightforward. The slip-on bolts directly to the stock header. You’ll need basic tools and about 30 minutes. The fitment is perfect, no modifications needed.
Some riders report a slight dip in low-end torque. But the mid-range and top-end gains are noticeable. It’s a solid all-around upgrade.
Two Brothers Racing M-2 Slip-On
Two Brothers offers a more affordable option. The M-2 is made from aluminum with a carbon fiber end cap. It saves about 3.5 pounds. Sound is louder than Akrapovic but still streetable.
- Weight savings: 3.5 lbs
- Sound level: 96 dB (with quiet insert)
- Material: Aluminum muffler, carbon fiber end cap
- Price: Mid-range
The included quiet insert is essential for daily riding. Without it, the exhaust is too loud for most neighborhoods. The build quality is good, but the finish may fade over time.
Performance gains are similar to Akrapovic. Throttle response improves, and the bike feels lighter. It’s a great value for the price.
Yoshimura Alpha Slip-On
Yoshimura is a trusted name in aftermarket exhausts. The Alpha series uses a stainless steel muffler with a carbon fiber end cap. It saves 3.8 pounds. Sound is aggressive but controlled.
- Weight savings: 3.8 lbs
- Sound level: 94 dB (with db killer)
- Material: Stainless steel muffler, carbon fiber end cap
- Price: Mid-high
The db killer is removable. Without it, the exhaust is loud but not unbearable. Fitment is excellent, and the included hardware is high quality. Installation takes about 20 minutes.
Power gains are modest but noticeable. The bike revs more freely. It’s a reliable choice for daily riders.
Delkevic Slip-On Exhaust
Delkevic offers budget-friendly options. Their stainless steel slip-on saves 3.2 pounds. Sound is louder than stock but not excessive. It includes a removable baffle.
- Weight savings: 3.2 lbs
- Sound level: 95 dB (with baffle)
- Material: Stainless steel
- Price: Low
The build quality is decent for the price. Some riders report fitment issues with the bracket. You may need to adjust it slightly. But overall, it’s a good entry-level upgrade.
Performance gains are minimal. The main benefit is weight reduction and sound. It’s a solid choice if you’re on a tight budget.
LeoVince LV-10 Slip-On
LeoVince is known for stylish designs. The LV-10 has a conical shape and carbon fiber end cap. It saves 3.6 pounds. Sound is deep and throaty.
- Weight savings: 3.6 lbs
- Sound level: 93 dB (with db killer)
- Material: Stainless steel muffler, carbon fiber end cap
- Price: Mid-range
The db killer is easy to remove. Without it, the exhaust is loud but still manageable. Fitment is good, but the bracket may need slight bending. Installation takes about 30 minutes.
Performance gains are similar to other slip-ons. The bike feels lighter and more responsive. It’s a stylish option that performs well.
Full Exhaust Systems
Full systems replace the headers and muffler. They offer the most weight savings and performance gains. But they are more expensive and harder to install.
Akrapovic Full System
Akrapovic’s full system saves over 6 pounds. The titanium headers and muffler are lightweight. Sound is deeper and louder than the slip-on. It includes a removable db killer.
- Weight savings: 6.2 lbs
- Sound level: 96 dB (with db killer)
- Material: Titanium headers and muffler
- Price: Very high
Installation is more complex. You need to remove the stock headers and install the new ones. The fitment is perfect, but you may need to remove the radiator for access. It takes about 2 hours.
Performance gains are significant. The bike pulls harder throughout the rev range. It’s the best option for serious riders.
Two Brothers Racing Full System
Two Brothers offers a full system with aluminum headers and muffler. It saves 5.8 pounds. Sound is loud but can be tamed with a quiet insert.
- Weight savings: 5.8 lbs
- Sound level: 98 dB (with quiet insert)
- Material: Aluminum headers and muffler
- Price: High
Installation is similar to Akrapovic. The headers are lightweight and easy to handle. The fitment is good, but some riders report clearance issues with the oil pan. It takes about 2.5 hours.
Performance gains are noticeable. The bike feels much lighter and more responsive. It’s a good alternative to Akrapovic.
Yoshimura Full System
Yoshimura’s full system uses stainless steel headers and a carbon fiber muffler. It saves 5.5 pounds. Sound is aggressive but not overwhelming.
- Weight savings: 5.5 lbs
- Sound level: 95 dB (with db killer)
- Material: Stainless steel headers, carbon fiber muffler
- Price: High
Installation is straightforward. The headers bolt on easily. The fitment is excellent, and the included hardware is high quality. It takes about 2 hours.
Performance gains are solid. The bike revs more freely and pulls harder. It’s a reliable choice for daily riders.
Installation Tips
Installing an exhaust is a DIY-friendly job. Here are some tips to make it easier.
- Gather tools: You’ll need a socket set, wrenches, and penetrating oil. A torque wrench is helpful.
- Remove the stock exhaust: Spray penetrating oil on the bolts. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Then remove the bolts and slide off the exhaust.
- Install the new exhaust: Apply anti-seize to the bolts. Slide the new exhaust into place. Tighten the bolts gradually.
- Check clearance: Make sure the exhaust doesn’t touch the swingarm or bodywork. Adjust if needed.
- Test ride: Warm up the bike and check for leaks. Listen for any rattles or unusual sounds.
If you’re installing a full system, you may need to remove the radiator. This is a bit more involved. But it’s still doable with basic tools.
Sound Level Considerations
Noise is a big factor for daily riders. Too loud, and you’ll annoy neighbors and risk tickets. Too quiet, and you miss the sporty sound.
Most slip-ons with a db killer are around 92-95 dB. This is acceptable for street use. Without the db killer, they can reach 100 dB or more.
Full systems are louder. They can be 95-100 dB with the db killer. Without it, they are track-only loud.
Consider your local noise laws. Some areas have strict limits. A removable db killer gives you flexibility.
Weight Savings
Weight reduction is a key benefit. The stock exhaust weighs about 12 pounds. A slip-on can save 3-4 pounds. A full system can save 5-6 pounds.
This may not seem like much. But on a lightweight bike like the CBR300R, it’s noticeable. The bike feels more agile and easier to maneuver.
Combined with other weight savings, it can improve handling. It’s a simple upgrade with real benefits.
Performance Gains
Aftermarket exhausts free up horsepower. Gains are modest, usually 2-4 hp. But the throttle response improves significantly.
The bike feels more responsive. It revs more freely. The power delivery is smoother.
For maximum gains, pair the exhaust with a fuel controller. This optimizes the air-fuel ratio. You can gain an additional 1-2 hp.
But even without a controller, the exhaust is a worthwhile upgrade. The weight savings and sound alone make it worth it.
Maintenance Tips
Aftermarket exhausts require some maintenance. Here are a few tips.
- Clean regularly: Use a mild cleaner and soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.
- Check bolts: Vibrations can loosen bolts. Check them every few rides.
- Inspect for leaks: Look for soot around the joints. Tighten if needed.
- Re-pack the muffler: Some exhausts need repacking every 10,000 miles. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
With proper care, an aftermarket exhaust can last the life of the bike. It’s a one-time investment that pays off.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best exhaust for a Honda CBR300R?
The Akrapovic slip-on is the best overall. It offers great weight savings, sound, and build quality. For a budget option, the Delkevic is a good choice.
Will an aftermarket exhaust void my warranty?
It depends on the dealer. Some may void the warranty if the exhaust causes damage. But most aftermarket exhausts are bolt-on and don’t affect the engine.
Do I need a fuel controller with a new exhaust?
Not necessarily. The CBR300R’s ECU can adapt to minor changes. But a fuel controller can optimize performance and prevent lean conditions.
How loud is too loud for street riding?
Anything over 100 dB is likely too loud. Most slip-ons with a db killer are under 95 dB, which is acceptable. Check local laws for specific limits.
Can I install the exhaust myself?
Yes, with basic tools. Slip-ons take about 30 minutes. Full systems take 2-3 hours. Follow the instructions and take your time.
Final Recommendations
For most riders, the Akrapovic slip-on is the best choice. It balances weight savings, sound, and performance. The build quality is top-notch, and it looks great on the bike.
If you’re on a budget, the Delkevic is a solid alternative. It saves weight and sounds good. Just be prepared for minor fitment adjustments.
For maximum performance, go with a full system. The Akrapovic full system is the best, but it’s expensive. The Two Brothers full system is a good alternative.
Remember to check local noise laws. A removable db killer gives you flexibility. And always use anti-seize on the bolts for easy removal later.
The Honda CBR300R is a fun bike. An aftermarket exhaust makes it even better. Choose the one that fits your needs and budget. You won’t regret it.