When it comes to motorcycle exhaust, the pipes can get very hot. Due to the proximity of the rider’s legs to the exhaust, accidental burns occur quite frequently. These burns can often be severe and require a significant amount of recovery time. Fortunately, there are inexpensive products available that can protect motorcyclists from accidental contact with exhaust pipes.
Motorcycle Exhaust Wrap is the leading solution for protecting motorcyclists from contact with exhaust pipes. These wraps are extremely easy to apply and are highly durable, even for those installing them on off-road vehicle exhaust systems such as an ATV or dirt bike. And the good news is that these wraps are usually very inexpensive and well worth it for the protection they offer.
Due to the ease of access to motorcycle exhaust systems, most people first remove the exhaust before wrapping it. In doing so, it allows easy access to difficult corners and allows for optimal wrapping that covers even the most complex turns. Regardless, most wraps are flexible enough to be applied without removing the exhaust system. The ones with straight pipes usually just install the wrap with the exhaust system still on the bike.
Exhaust wraps are usually made from fiberglass or pulverized lava rocks. Those who install fiberglass wraps should use a coating of high-temperature silicone on the installed wrap to protect it from dirt, grease, and other debris. However, the exhaust wrap made of pulverized lava rock naturally repels most contaminants on its own. Depending on the level of thermal protection desired and appearance, fiberglass wraps may be preferred to the dull gold color of most sprayed lava rock wraps.
The thermal protection offered by the different types of motorcycle exhaust wraps is quite significant. Wraps made of fiberglass are generally rated at 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, while pulverized lava rock wraps are rated at a much higher 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. While the added heat protection is desired by many, it is important to note that no high color temperature silicone coating will properly adhere to a motorcycle exhaust wrap made of pulverized lava rock. Therefore, many motorcycle owners ultimately choose fiberglass wraps to suit their personal color preferences.
While motorcycle exhaust wrap won’t prevent all burns, it will greatly limit the severity of accidental contact with exhaust pipes. In many cases, a complete motorcycle exhaust wrap can be purchased for less than fifty dollars and includes everything needed to wrap most exhaust systems. Most exhaust wrap kits include two rolls of wrap, stainless steel zip ties, and high-temperature silicone spray. And for less than $50, the added rider protection is well worth the minimal expense.