Let’s be honest. The first thing you want to change on your bike is the exhaust.
That stock system is too quiet, too heavy, and it’s robbing you of power. You want a motorcycle sound that announces your arrival, a deep rumble that you can feel in your chest.
This is where Voodoo Exhaust comes in. They’ve built a reputation for crafting systems that deliver a perfect trifecta: a signature aggressive sound, proven performance gains, and an aesthetic that transforms your ride.
This guide is your complete resource for everything Voodoo, breaking down their product lines and helping you choose the perfect motorcycle exhaust system for your bike.
An exhaust system is often the first and most impactful performance upgrade. For a complete overview of all motorcycle performance modifications, see our Ultimate Motorcycle Performance & Upgrade Guide.
1 Voodoo Exhaust Systems: At a Glance
| Feature | Voodoo Shorty | Voodoo 2-into-1 | Voodoo Slash Cut | Voodoo Racing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Sportsters & Aggressive Style | Harley Touring & Performance | Cruisers & Classic Looks | Sport Bikes & Track Days |
| Sound Level | Very Aggressive | Deep & Throaty | Loud & Classic | Extreme & High-Pitched |
| Performance Gain | Good | Excellent | Good | Maximum |
| Installation | Easy (Slip-On) | Moderate (Full System) | Easy (Slip-On) | Moderate (Full System) |
| Verdict | Pure attitude and sound | The ultimate touring upgrade | Timeless style, modern roar | Uncompromised track performance |
2 What Makes Voodoo Exhaust Different from the Competition?
In a crowded market of aftermarket exhaust options, Voodoo has carved out a unique space.
They don’t just make pipes; they engineer experiences. It’s not about just being loud; it’s about having the right kind of loud, backed by a tangible power increase.
3 The Signature Sound: Deep, Aggressive, and Unmistakable
The number one reason riders flock to Voodoo is for the sound.
It’s not a generic rumble; it’s a carefully tuned exhaust note that is deep, throaty, and aggressive without being painfully shrill. Whether you’re on a Harley or a sport bike, a Voodoo system gives your machine a voice that is both intimidating and addictive.
This isn’t just noise; it’s the sound of power.
When you fire up a bike with a Voodoo system, you get it. The idle has a menacing pulse, and when you crack the throttle, it erupts into a roar that commands respect.
This is the motorcycle sound that turns heads at stoplights and makes you want to take the long way home every single time.
4 Performance Engineering: Power Gains You Can Feel
A great sound is one thing, but a Voodoo exhaust is also a true performance exhaust.
These systems are designed to improve exhaust flow, reduce backpressure, and cut significant weight compared to stock units. The result is a noticeable bump in both horsepower and torque, right where you need it in the rev range.
When I first unboxed a Voodoo full system, the quality of the mandrel-bent tubing and the precise welds immediately stood out. This isn’t just a hollow pipe; it’s an engineered component.
In my field test on a Harley-Davidson Street Glide, the bike felt more responsive off the line, with a stronger pull through the midrange. The torque increase was immediately obvious, making roll-on acceleration on the highway feel effortless.
5 Voodoo Exhaust Product Lines: Finding Your Perfect Match
Voodoo offers several types of exhaust systems, each designed for a different purpose and level of modification.
Understanding the difference is key to choosing the right setup for your needs and budget.
6 Slip-On Systems: Easy Installation, Instant Transformation
A slip-on exhaust is the easiest way to upgrade your bike’s sound and look.
These systems replace the stock muffler while keeping the original header pipes. The beauty of a slip-on is its simplicity; the exhaust installation can often be done in your garage in under an hour with basic hand tools.
For riders who want that signature Voodoo sound without the complexity of a full system, a slip-on is the perfect entry point. It’s a fast and effective motorcycle performance upgrade that delivers a massive improvement in auditory satisfaction.
7 Full System Exhausts: Maximum Performance and Sound
For those who want to extract every ounce of performance, a full system exhaust is the only way to go.
This replaces everything from the engine’s exhaust ports back, including the headers and mid-pipes. This allows for optimized pipe diameter and length, providing the most significant power gains.
A full system is a more involved installation and often requires ECU tuning to get the air/fuel mixture just right, but the payoff is enormous. You get the most aggressive sound, the biggest performance boost, and a dramatic reduction in weight.
8 Headers and Mid-Pipes: The Foundation of Power
Sometimes, you want to build a custom system piece by piece.
Voodoo offers high-flow headers and mid-pipes that serve as the foundation for a high-performance setup. These components are designed to maximize the flow of exhaust gasses, creating a better torque curve and paving the way for serious power.
9 Top 5 Voodoo Exhaust Systems for Popular Motorcycle Models
Here’s a breakdown of some of the top Voodoo exhaust options for different types of motorcycles.
10 1. Best for Harley Touring: Voodoo Performance 2-into-1 System
For bagger and touring riders, this full system is the gold standard.
The 2-into-1 design is renowned for producing excellent low-end torque, which is perfect for getting a heavy bike moving. It provides a deep, barking sound that is authoritative but not so loud that it becomes fatiguing on long rides.
While a Voodoo exhaust transforms sound and power, upgrading your braking system ensures you can safely handle the increased performance. Check out our guide to Beringer Harley master cylinders for premium stopping power.
11 2. Best for Sportsters: Voodoo Shorty Exhaust
The Voodoo Shorty is all about raw attitude.
This aggressive, slash-cut slip-on gives Sportsters and other cruisers a loud, snarling exhaust note that is impossible to ignore. It’s lightweight, easy to install, and completely changes the character of the bike, making it feel more like a stripped-down bobber.
12 3. Best for Cruisers: Voodoo Slash Cut Pipes
This classic slip-on design works on a wide range of metric and American cruisers.
The long, tapered slash-cut look is timeless, while the Voodoo internals deliver a sound that is far from old-fashioned. It’s a great way to get a custom look and a powerful sound without breaking the bank.
For riders focused on complete customization, pair your new Voodoo exhaust with a custom Harley derby cover to achieve a cohesive, premium look.
13 4. Best for Sport Bikes: Voodoo Racing System
Designed for maximum performance on Japanese and European sport bikes, this full system exhaust is built for the track.
It’s incredibly lightweight and engineered to produce top-end horsepower. The sound is a high-pitched scream that signals pure, unadulterated performance.
14 5. Most Versatile: Voodoo Universal Slip-Ons
If you have a custom build or a less common model, Voodoo’s universal slip-ons are a fantastic solution.
They come in various styles and diameters, allowing you to adapt the Voodoo sound and style to nearly any motorcycle with some minor fabrication work.
15 Installation Guide: Professional vs. DIY Considerations
One of the biggest questions riders have is whether they can handle the exhaust installation themselves.
For a slip-on, the answer is usually yes. If you have a basic socket set and can follow instructions, you can typically swap a muffler in your own garage.
A full system, however, is more complex. It requires removing the entire stock system, fitting new headers, and ensuring there are no leaks.
While still doable for an experienced home mechanic, it’s a bigger job. If you’re not comfortable with it, there’s no shame in having a professional shop handle the installation to ensure everything is perfect.
16 Tools Required and Complexity Assessment
For slip-on installations, you’ll typically need:
Basic socket set
Screwdrivers
Maybe a torque wrench
About 30-60 minutes of time
Full system installations require:
Complete socket and wrench set
Gasket scraper
New gaskets and hardware
Torque wrench
2-4 hours depending on complexity
17 Tuning Requirements After Installation
Here’s something crucial that many riders overlook: tuning.
A slip-on might not require immediate tuning, but it’s still recommended for optimal performance. A full system almost always needs a tune to prevent running lean, which can damage your engine.
Consider this an investment in both performance and engine longevity.
18 Sound Comparison: Voodoo vs. Other Premium Exhaust Brands
To give you a better idea of what to expect, here’s a chart that compares the approximate sound levels of Voodoo systems to a typical stock exhaust.
Decibel (dB) ratings are logarithmic, meaning a small increase represents a much louder sound.
| Exhaust System | Idle (Approx. dB) | Under Load (Approx. dB) | Sound Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Harley Exhaust | 80 dB | 95 dB | Muffled & Subdued |
| Voodoo Slip-On | 92 dB | 110 dB | Deep & Loud |
| Voodoo Full System | 96 dB | 118 dB | Aggressive & Throaty |
| Stock Sport Bike Exhaust | 82 dB | 98 dB | Whiny & Tame |
| Voodoo Racing System | 98 dB | 120+ dB | Sharp & Screaming |
The key takeaway? Voodoo systems are significantly louder than stock, but they maintain a quality tone that doesn’t become annoying over time.
19 Where to Buy Authentic Voodoo Exhaust Systems
To ensure you’re getting a genuine product with a full warranty, always buy from authorized dealers.
You can find authentic Voodoo Exhaust systems on major online marketplaces like Amazon and directly from specialized motorcycle parts retailers.
Be wary of knock-offs on auction sites, as they often use inferior materials that can crack or discolor over time.
Look for:
Authorized dealer badges
Full manufacturer warranty
Proper packaging and documentation
Competitive but not suspiciously low pricing
FAQ: Your Voodoo Exhaust Questions Answered
How much horsepower does a Voodoo exhaust add?
The amount of horsepower gained from a Voodoo exhaust depends on whether you install a slip-on or a full system.
A slip-on might provide a modest gain of 3-5 horsepower, while a full system, especially when paired with a new air cleaner and an ECU tune, can add 10-15 horsepower or more.
Are Voodoo exhausts loud compared to stock?
Yes, Voodoo exhausts are significantly louder than stock systems.
They are designed for riders who want an aggressive and audible exhaust note. The sound is deep and throaty rather than just loud and raspy, but they are among the more aggressive-sounding options on the market.
Do I need to tune my bike after installing a Voodoo exhaust?
For a slip-on exhaust, a tune is not always required, but it is recommended to get the best performance.
For a full system exhaust, a tune is almost always necessary. Changing the entire exhaust system dramatically alters the engine’s airflow, and an ECU tune is needed to adjust the air-fuel ratio for optimal power and engine safety.
What’s the difference between slip-on and full system exhausts?
A slip-on exhaust replaces only the muffler portion of your exhaust, making it an easy and affordable upgrade for sound and style.
A full system exhaust replaces all components, from the header pipes connected to the engine all the way to the tip. Full systems offer the largest performance gains by optimizing the entire exhaust path.
Will a Voodoo exhaust void my motorcycle warranty?
Installing an aftermarket exhaust like Voodoo may affect your warranty coverage, but manufacturers cannot void your entire warranty for modifications.
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, they must prove that the modification directly caused the failure. However, it’s always best to check with your dealer before making modifications to understand potential warranty implications.
How long does it take to install a Voodoo exhaust system?
Installation time varies significantly between slip-on and full system exhausts.
A slip-on system typically takes 30-60 minutes with basic tools, while a full system installation can take 2-4 hours depending on your motorcycle model and mechanical experience. Professional installation is recommended for full systems if you’re not comfortable with the process.
