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Ease of Installation/Fit & Finish
We're combining these two categories as they go hand in hand. We looked at a multitude of aspects on the systems themselves, including how quickly and easily each went on the quad. Some went on fast and easy with zero clearance issues, with the Barker's and MonsterQuads leading the way. These two kits clearly outshined the others in this area. Both the Barker’s and MonsterQuads were installed in a matter of minutes with no touching of the engine case or wires, compared to the LTEs and DMCs. To LTE’s credit, the versions we used were of the older design that would not fit with the rear shock reservoir of the GYT-R Raptor, and we had to switch out the shock to finish the installation. The newer units include a “dent” in them to accommodate the shock.
Barker's Performance: 4/4 stars
They went together very fast and easy. Truly a great looking system all the way around, with the general consensus being that they're the best looking of the bunch. The exhaust pipes flow with the bike and the megaphones look tough. What's also nice is, if you decide you want drag racing pipes, simply unhook the canisters and you have a set of in-frame drag racing pipes because of the reverse megaphone design. The canisters are solid, with the best looking tips. The availability of different colored labels is great for those of us who like to match. Attention to design detail and clean welds really make these shine. The fact that they have two heat shields on each pipe (one up front and one near the rear fender) is a huge plus in our minds. We have melted more than a few pairs of riding pants from machines without heat shields on the exhaust pipes, and have the scars to prove it. The only thing we feel could be improved is the canister mounting system and clamps. A welded-tab design or billet clamps would be an improvement in our opinion.
MonterQuads ATV Products: 4/4 stars
The MonsterQuads guys have a real nice product on their hands and definitely earned our respect after comparing them side-by-side with the others. Like the Barker's, they went on fast and hassle free (once we figured them out. The first time we threw them on they weren’t done correctly and were nicknamed "Marty Feldman pipes" because they were so crooked). They flow very nice with the Raptor and the welds are clean. They step up in diameter size progressively as you flow down them. Very clean looking canisters with nice, yet simple end caps. Someone mentioned that they resembled the end caps often seen on street bikes, and that seemed accurate. Not that they're any worse than the Barker’s, they're just not as detailed and unique. It’s a simple matter of taste, and overall still a very nice package. Our set didn't have heat shields, but we hear now from MonsterQuads that they're available as an option.
Looney Tuned Exhaust: 3/4 stars
These have been the benchmark dual exhaust setup for quite some time. They look good, but have a definite unique appearance. They're welded the entire length of the pipe opposed to the "stepping" or megaphone style found on the others. Not that it's bad, just different. Great looking canisters and tab-welded mounts. Heat shields near the rear fenders are nice, while the middle mounting section really secures everything to your machine. They do not have the clearance that the Barker's and MonsterQuads do, and you'll have to install small heat shields on the motor itself to protect wires from melting. They also can rub the engine cases if not properly tweaked. Also, they do not fit together as well as the others, especially at the head, as they seem to come in at an aggressive angle causing poor seating. The clamp at the head could be bigger at the stud holes to help the problem. A front heat shield is really needed on them. They tend to stick out wide enough to necessitate them. We had to fabricate our own after burning our legs.
DMC: 2/4 stars
They have a completely different look from the other three competitors. The only manufacturer to run both header pipes down the right side, then cross over the left side pipe just in front of the rear shock. The large front heat shield is a definite plus. Their canisters are a dark gray color that gives a completely different look to the bike, opposed to the shiney billet look most are accustomed to. We see that as a plus, although many seem to not care for it personally. Getting this set on the quad turned into a wrestling match. They just didn’t want to go on no matter how much we fought with them. Spry lube finally did the trick, after a short battle though. We had to "zip-tie" wires up on the motor, and it took a bit of tweaking to get clearance from the the engine case. They definitely need a rear heat shield near the fender to prevent unwanted burns. We noticed burned material from riding pants already stuck on them.
  
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MISC
