How noticeable is the Engine heat: F3 vs RT?

[RetiredBikerKenJ]

Potentially, it depends upon the issue, and the dealer. For jurisdictions that still do emissions testing for bikes, there is that to consider.

That's what I thought. Apparently, enough people aren't concerned with the possiblities to stop that mod. Guess ya just got to decide what's more important.

 

[BajaRon]

Are there any regulatory/warranty issues to consider when removing the catalytic converter, depending on jurisdiction?

Just Google whether your state or local requires an inspection of motorcycles, (or 3 wheeled vehicles if your juristiction makes this distinction). If you do, then you may encounter issues. If not, then it is extremely unlikely that you will have any problems.

The other fact is that swapping back to the Cat is pretty easily done.

 

[RetiredBikerKenJ]

TX requires a $7.50 'inspection program replacement fee' at renewal time. Other'n that, good to go.

 

[Peter Aawen]

That's what I thought. Apparently, enough people aren't concerned with the possiblities to stop that mod. Guess ya just got to decide what's more important.

IIRC, I don't think we've seen even ONE reported issue with Authorities getting upset about a Cat Delete on a Spyder here on the Forum.

Of course, that may be due to the fact that the owners in Countries/States/Regions where it would/could be an issue simply don't do Cat Deletes, but I doubt very much that someone wouldn't have at least tried at some stage in the last, what... 16-18 years or so?! However, I do recall an owner in Singapore (I think?? Altho it might've been Hong Kong?!) who was trying to source an OEM replacement after the Cat on his early RT was damaged &/or went missing, I think during accident repairs or a period of it being off the road/unregistered.

Here in Oz, I believe that while owners aren't meant to touch/change anything 'Emission Control' related like Catalytic Converters, the fact that our Australian Design Rules don't specifically demand the inclusion of Catalytic Converters on anything classed as a motorcycle or auto-cycle may have some bearing on this, even tho we do have some States which have regular inspections. I believe that there still haven't been any reports of any problems being raised with the many, many, MANY Cat Delete pipes fitted to Spyders here in Oz.

This 'compliance' thing is certainly worth some consideration tho, especially if you live somewhere that does have those inspections.

 

[RetiredBikerKenJ]

Thanks for that input, Peter.

 

[Jb74texan]

One of the best, simplest, and cheapest ways to reduce engine produced rider heat on the Spyder is to remove the plastic splash panels from the bottom of the frame. This gives heat buildup in the engine compartment somewhere to go other than on you or your passenger. Not to mention the added simplicity for an oil change.

The next step is to replace the cat, which can typically operate at 800 degrees or more.

One more thing, you can wrap your exhaust with exhaust tape.

Do these things and you'll be surprised how much cooler your ride will be. Especially on hot days &/or long trips.

This...

I never measured temperature before and after, so my data set is my rear end. The cat delete was noticeable, especially at traffic lights... So, slightly cooler, louder, and lost a few pounds with an easy fix. Kinda like wife #2

 

[RetiredBikerKenJ]

This...

I never measured temperature before and after, so my data set is my rear end. The cat delete was noticeable, especially at traffic lights... So, slightly cooler, louder, and lost a few pounds with an easy fix. Kinda like wife #2

...like wife #2. Ouch!!

 

[Jb74texan]

...like wife #2. Ouch!!

Well, she does check all those boxes compared to #1. I'm careful with #2, I don't want her to think "cat delete" is code for no more fun for me... Sorry, lame joke!

 

[mecsw500]

...like wife #2. Ouch!!

I'm on wife #4, but I wouldn't make the mistake of passing comment on the weight of any of them. Been married to #4 for 32 years now and she's been the only one to really encourage my two or three wheel addiction without complaint. If my Spyder has a top heavy weight issue, it isn't due to my wife, it's very definitely a me problem.

 

[Jb74texan]

Agreed. Elka is going to need a stage 8 kit if I don't get more cardio time.