The Best Slip-On Exhausts For Harley Davidson Motorcycles

If you’re like me and have a thing for Harley Davidson motorcycles, then you know that their loud exhausts can be heard from blocks away. It’s a defining trait that’s become synonymous with the Harley brand over the decades. That rumble, that roar – it’s pure Harley.

Now, a number of companies have tried to improve on that iconic sound and style, creating their own aftermarket exhausts. I’ve been down that road, and let me tell you, with so many options out there, finding the best slip-on exhaust can be a real challenge.

But the hunt for better volume, performance, and reduced weight led me to some remarkable discoveries. Among the aftermarket exhausts, the ‘Vance and Hines 3” Round Twin Slash’ stood out as the best overall slip-on for Harleys. I found it to not only amplify that signature Harley sound but also enhance the riding feel.

Are you intrigued? Well, stick with me, and I’ll share with you why this particular slip-on caught my attention and became my go-to choice for my Harley.


Overall Best

Vance & Hines 3″ Round Twin Slash Slip-On Exhaust

When it comes to Harley exhausts, no one does it quite like ‘Vance and Hines.’ My fellow HD enthusiasts and I swear by ‘Vance and Hines’ exhausts, and there’s a reason behind our loyalty. Having spent decades fine-tuning their craft, ‘V&H’ has become THE go-to aftermarket exhaust company for Harleys. One look at their 3″ Round Twin Slash Slip-On, and I knew I’d found something special.

The first time I saw this slip-on style exhaust, I was struck by its class and sophistication. The sleek twin pipe design is a sight to behold, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s all looks and no substance. When I fired it up, that’s when I really understood what this exhaust was all about. This thing roars to life, delivering a throaty rumble even at idle, and when revved, my bike transformed with a passionate growl that sent shivers down my spine.

I couldn’t help but notice how this exhaust improved upon the stock sound. The signature dual barrel design adds something extra to the bike’s appearance, and the improved airflow actually gave me a noticeable power boost. And the heat shields? They’re not just there for show; alongside the louvered core baffles, they contribute to that thrilling soundtrack that’s pure music to an HD lover’s ears.

Trust me, if you’re looking to upgrade your Harley, you can’t go wrong with this pair of slip-ons. It’s a choice that’s as much about ‘Beauty’ as it is ‘Beast,’ and one that I’ll never regret.

Pros
  • Great build quality
  • Seasoned manufacturer
  • Massive improvement over stock
  • Impressive sound and power output
  • Heat shields prevent discoloration of the chrome
  • Optional baffles available to reduce sound by 3-5 dB
  • No engine tuning needed
  • Plug and play
Cons
  • The manufacturer installation guide is not the most intuitive
  • May not work flawlessly with older, carbureted engines

Premium Choice

Vance & Hines 4″ Monster Rounds Slip-On Mufflers

When I found out that ‘Vance and Hines’ had not just one, but two products on my top list, I knew it was a testament to the brand’s quality. The 4” Monster Rounds Slip-On Mufflers caught my eye as the perfect addition to my top-of-the-line Harley, and I had to have them.

Designed for the big, bad touring machines that Harley is known for, I realized these ‘Monsters’ were exactly what I needed. These premium slip-ons added a unique look to my bike and a terrific sound, all without sacrificing any of the function or usability I had come to love.

When I first installed the ‘Monsters,’ I was struck by the dual exhaust configuration and the way the pipes sat under the saddlebags. There was something almost minimalist about these slip-ons, yet the sleek pipes fit perfectly with the overall Harley design. Just like the ‘Twin Slash Slip-ons,’ they featured the same heat shield style to keep the metal looking fresh, and I could choose between chrome or black to match my bike.

But what really sold me was the sound. As a tourer, I needed an exhaust note that was powerful and rich but not overly harsh. These slip-ons delivered exactly that. Loud enough to be heard but not so loud that it would annoy those around me. It was the kind of ‘loud’ that resonated in a balanced, pleasing way, letting people know I was there without alerting the entire neighborhood.

In the end, these were more than just an awesome set of pipes for my Harley Davidson. They were a statement, a blend of aesthetic and function that took my bike to the next level. And I have ‘Vance and Hines’ to thank for that.

Pros
  • Top notch materials and construction
  • Reputable brand
  • Compatible with saddlebags for touring
  • Balanced sound
  • Sound not annoying for longer trip
Cons
  • May require a tune or remap to deliver optimum performance

Emgo Universal Slip-On Exhaust

I’ll be honest with you. Owning a Harley doesn’t come cheap. I’ve poured tens of thousands into mine, and that’s before considering any extra options or miscellaneous costs. So, when it came time to shop for a new exhaust, I was downright disheartened to see even low-quality products demanding sky-high prices.

Then I stumbled upon the ‘Emgo Universal Slip-On’, and it was like a breath of fresh air. Here was this retro-styled, universal-fit exhaust made from top-notch materials. It had a punchy, heavy sound that immediately grabbed my attention, and its looks were even more appealing than pipes that were selling for three times the price! Emgo was offering this gem at such a reasonable price, I couldn’t help but be impressed.

And believe me, this exhaust is nothing short of compelling. I couldn’t find anything else on the market that combined such a cool design and distinct sound signature without costing an arm and a leg. It brought me back to the golden age of Harleys, when customizing bikes was more than just a hobby; it was a status symbol. The free-flowing exhaust added that extra ‘OOMPH!’ that my bike needed.

I realized the Emgo would be perfect for my next motorcycle build, whether I wanted a stripped-down bobber or a lean, mean dragster. Its versatility, ease of installation, and simplicity to maintain convinced me it was THE exhaust for my garage projects.

Now, there’s just one word of caution I need to share. This exhaust’s sound is absolutely other-worldly. It’s not something you’ll forget, and neither will your neighbors. Trust me on this one; it’s worth every penny, but you might want to warn the folks next door.

Pros
  • Heavy, raw sound
  • High quality construction and materials
  • Budget friendly
  • Makes the motorcycle feel much more responsive
Cons
  • The sound may be a bit too loud for everyday use

Author
Hugo Alais

Hi, I'm Hugo, I'm a motorcycle enthusiast who’s been riding for the last 10 years. I'm passionate about all things motorcycles and started Bikes Future to help other riders make the right motorcycle moves. I ride a white Kawasaki Ninja 400. You can find out more about me and my experience with motorcycling here.