Loud Pipes: Why its Music to our Ears

The Soundtrack of the Open Road

There is the age old saying, ‘why fix something that aint broke?’ 

Well, my friend, because it makes it more fun, that's why. 

Motorcycles are not quiet at the best of times, but adding extra rumble to that exhaust just flips a switch, it ignites a flame of attitude and boldness. Before you are even in anyone's view, every living being within 5Ks will know you are coming. Sleeping babies will wake and car alarms set off. Heads turn and you get noticed. What are these people thinking? Who cares. 

But how loud is too loud and are we justified to make this noise. Let's find out how our loud pipes make a difference and what regulations there are. 

Why Riders Love Loud Pipes

Every twist of that throttle gives riders such a thrill. Its telling people, “I'm here and I live loud”. Depending on the change, the bike will even perform better with more airflow. 

Making your pipes more vocal will give you such a rush when riding. That sound just hits your chest. And it is now personal; this motorbike is now unique and it's just for you. 

But let's not get the love of loud motorcycles mixed with ego. Even the most introverted people have the loudest bikes. It is their happy place and brings out their best in confidence and performance. 

It just sounds cool.

Do Loud Pipes Really Save Lives? The Safety Debate

“Loud Pipes Save Lives”. Is this true or is it just something a bunch of rebels told the cops? The answer- Yes. Definitely Yes. 

We also know that drivers also say, “I just didn't see them”. 

Cars will change lanes, stop suddenly and even turn around roundabouts and just not see us. Loud pipes will surely let them know you are around. If they can't see you, they will hear you. Heads turn when there is a loud noise, you will make yourself noticed which will then bring attention to the driver. That lane change they were suddenly going to do will have to wait, there is a bad biker coming up. 

Of course, there are negative people that say the loud pipes make more of a noise behind the bike, so drivers in front may not actually be alerted to your presence. 

Yeah, I don't think so. Its damn loud. 

How Loud Is Too Loud? Understanding Maximum Volume Limits

Ok, so here’s the part where eye rolling is acceptable. There are noise regulations in Australia. Noise restrictions are quite serious and if our exhausts are exceeding the noise limit, we are looking at some pretty hefty fines or even a defect notice. 

Generally, the maximum allowable noise level for motorcycles depends on the age of the bike:

Motorcycles built before 1985: up to around 100 decibels (dB).

Motorcycles built after 1985: typically limited to around 94–96 dB when tested.

In Layman's terms, a conversation is 60dB, a lawnmower is around 90dB, and a rock concert is about 110dB. So, if you are worried that your bike can't be loud enough, you should be ok as it's not far off a rock concert. 

It is tempting to gut the muffler and go for max volume but it's just not worth it. Police will use noise meters to test the bikes and groups of bikes can be targets. So, if you think you can hide your loud exhaust amongst your fellow riders, think again. You may be looking at a defect and losing a nice chunk of money. 

The Balance Between Power, Performance, and Respect

A well-tuned exhaust can do wonders for your bike's performance. The exhaust can even weigh less. You may be getting a better performance with an awesome authoritative sound, but you need to still respect other road users and most importantly, your neighbours. (Unless you hate your neighbours but that's a whole ‘nother article.)

There are different sounds you can achieve with your pipes. There are deep rumble sounds or there is the loud cracking sound that will break windows. Whatever you prefer, you need to have balance.

Now adays, it is possible to achieve the sound you prefer but still be in the regulation zone. Performance exhausts can offer Slip-on mufflers, baffled pipes or even variable exhaust systems. These work by having adjustable components inside the muffler such as valves that will open, close or change the length of the path depending on the RPMs.

You be quieter in traffic and a loud beast on open roads. 

Living Loud — The Culture Behind the Sound

Loud pipes are part of a rider's atmosphere. It just comes naturally. At any Bike rallies or meetups, it's something that us riders love to hear. 

Loud pipes are a story on their own. Night rides on quiet streets are quickly made into a memory of thrills.

Keeping the culture of loud powerful bikes strong, depends on still being respectful and mindful of others. Unleashing your pipes doesn't mean disrupting the law. 

Conclusion: Ride Loud, Ride Smart

Much like food, if you want flavour, then add some spices. It makes the experience that much better. 

Loud pipes are expressive and powerful. They make you feel dominant in the riding world. 

Whether you are a purrer or a thunder muffler kind of biker, loud pipes is a sweet sound that hits your soul and gets you noticed.