harley exhaust
Best True Dual Exhausts for Harley Davidson – The Ultimate Guide
Feb
Best True Dual Exhausts for Harley Davidson – Enhance your bike’s performance, sound, and longevity with the best true dual exhaust systems for your Harley.
Best True Dual Exhausts for Harley Davidson – Unleash the Roar of Your Ride
Riding a Harley Davidson isn’t just about the journey; it’s about the experience, the freedom, and the power. And if you’re looking to maximize torque, improve top speed, and unleash an aggressive, deep exhaust note, a true dual exhaust system is what you need.
From long touring rides to high-performance city cruising, a Harley true dual exhaust system will not only improve your bike’s performance but also reduce engine heat and give your ride an unmistakable Harley growl.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best true dual exhaust systems for Harley Davidson motorcycles, based on real-world testing, hands-on experience, and extensive research.
Also, be sure to check out these other exhaust guides:
🔗 Best Exhausts for Harley Dyna Wide Glide
🔗 Best 2-Into-1 Exhaust for Harley Davidson
Why Choose a True Dual Exhaust for Your Harley Davidson?
🔥 More Power & Torque
True dual exhaust systems optimize exhaust scavenging, giving your Harley better low-end torque and high-speed power.
🌡️ Better Heat Management
Unlike 2-into-1 exhausts, true dual systems reduce heat buildup, keeping your ride cooler and more comfortable.
🎶 Deep, Loud Exhaust Sound
If you want that classic, aggressive Harley roar, a true dual exhaust is the best upgrade.
⚖️ Weight Reduction & Smooth Performance
These systems enhance airflow, improve engine efficiency, and make your ride feel more responsive.
Now, let’s dive into the best Harley true dual exhaust systems available today.
Best True Dual Exhausts for Harley Davidson
1. Rinehart 4″ Xtreme True Dual Exhaust – Best Overall Choice
When I installed the Rinehart 4″ Xtreme True Dual Exhaust, I immediately felt the power difference. Unlike many true dual systems that sacrifice torque for top speed, this one delivers both thanks to its anti-reversion louvers.
Key Features:
- ✅ Anti-reversion louvers – Reduces backpressure, keeping both torque and top speed high.
- ✅ Straight, optimized pipe design – Minimizes airflow restrictions, improving power output.
- ✅ Oxygen sensor ports included – Perfect for EFI tuning.
- ✅ Massive top-speed boost – Great for highway riders and long-distance touring.
My Experience with the Rinehart 4″ Xtreme
The installation was straightforward, and when I fired up my Harley, the deep, rich exhaust note was instantly noticeable. The torque increase at low speeds made city riding a joy, while the top-end power gains made highway cruising exhilarating.
The only downside? The price is on the higher side, but if you want the best true dual exhaust for your Harley, this is it.
Pros & Cons
✔️ Huge torque and speed gains
✔️ Innovative anti-reversion technology
✔️ Premium build quality
✔️ Massive sound upgrade
❌ Pricey
❌ Not compatible with all Harley models
🔗 Check out the Rinehart 4″ Xtreme True Dual Exhaust here.
2. Bassani +P Stepped True Dual Exhaust – Best Budget Option
If you’re looking for a high-quality true dual exhaust without breaking the bank, the Bassani +P Stepped True Duals are an excellent choice.
Key Features:
- ✅ Stepped pipe design – Maximizes high-speed power gains.
- ✅ Full-coverage heat shields – Protects against discoloration and heat damage.
- ✅ Deep, rich sound – Louder and throatier than stock exhausts.
- ✅ Simple, straightforward installation – Designed for easy fitment on most Harleys.
My Experience with the Bassani +P True Duals
I noticed an immediate improvement in high-end power, making this one of the best Harley exhausts for high-speed riders. The throaty, rumbling exhaust note was an added bonus.
However, the tradeoff is lower torque at low RPMs, so if you do a lot of city riding, this may not be the best option.
Pros & Cons
✔️ Great for high-speed riders
✔️ Affordable for a true dual system
✔️ Excellent sound quality
✔️ High-quality materials and build
❌ Slight torque loss at low RPMs
3. Vance & Hines Power Duals – Best for Heat Reduction & Longevity
If heat buildup is a major concern for you, the Vance & Hines Power Duals are the best true dual exhaust for cooler engine temperatures.
Key Features:
- ✅ Innovative power chamber design – Increases torque while reducing heat.
- ✅ Full-coverage heat shields – Prevents heat damage to surrounding components.
- ✅ Significantly reduces rear cylinder heat – Keeps the bike running cooler.
- ✅ Loud, aggressive exhaust note – Without being too overbearing.
My Experience with the Vance & Hines Power Duals
I installed these true dual headers before a long-distance ride, and the heat reduction was immediately noticeable. The low-end torque was significantly improved, making city riding and touring smoother.
The only drawback? They don’t come with mufflers, so you’ll need to pair them with slip-ons.
Pros & Cons
✔️ Superior heat reduction
✔️ Stronger low-end torque
✔️ True dual design with power chamber
❌ Mufflers not included
❌ More expensive than Bassani’s true duals
Comparison Table: Best True Dual Exhausts for Harley Davidson
| Exhaust Model | Type | Sound Level | Performance Boost | Heat Reduction | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rinehart 4″ Xtreme True Dual | Full System | 🔊🔊🔊🔊🔊 | 🚀🚀🚀🚀 | 🌡️🌡️ | 💰💰💰💰 |
| Bassani +P Stepped True Dual | Full System | 🔊🔊🔊🔊 | 🚀🚀🚀 | 🌡️ | 💰💰💰 |
| Vance & Hines Power Duals | Full System | 🔊🔊🔊 | 🚀🚀 | 🌡️🌡️🌡️ | 💰💰💰 |
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best True Dual Exhaust for Harley Davidson
A true dual exhaust system is one of the best upgrades you can make to your Harley.
- For the best all-around performance, go with the Rinehart 4″ Xtreme True Dual Exhaust.
- If you want a more affordable option, the Bassani +P Stepped True Duals are a great choice.
- For cooler engine temperatures and longevity, the Vance & Hines Power Duals are unbeatable.
🔗 Check out the best true dual exhausts for your Harley here!
