If you're looking to wake up your quad, a new yamaha raptor 700 exhaust is probably the single best modification you can make. It's not just about making more noise for the sake of it; it's about unlocking the potential that the massive 686cc single-cylinder engine actually has hidden inside. Most people buy a Raptor because they want that stump-pulling torque, but the stock pipe often feels like it's trying to breathe through a tiny straw.
When you start looking at options, the market can feel a bit overwhelming. You've got different materials, shapes, and the big debate between single and dual setups. It's easy to get lost in the specs, but choosing the right one usually comes down to how you ride and, let's be honest, how much you want your neighbors to hate you.
Why Even Swap the Stock Pipe?
The factory exhaust on the Raptor 700 is built for two main things: meeting noise regulations and keeping costs down for Yamaha. It's heavy, it's restrictive, and it sounds a bit like a lawnmower at idle. By switching to an aftermarket yamaha raptor 700 exhaust, you're dropping anywhere from five to ten pounds right off the back of the machine. That might not sound like much, but on a sport quad, you'll feel that weight difference in the corners and over jumps.
Beyond the weight, you're looking at a significant power jump. A good system, paired with a fuel controller, can easily net you a 10% to 15% increase in horsepower. On a machine that already has plenty of grunt, that extra kick is what makes the front wheels want to come up in every gear.
Slip-Ons vs. Full Systems
This is usually the first fork in the road. A slip-on is just the muffler section. You keep your stock head pipe and just swap the back end. It's cheaper, easier to install, and gives you a much better sound. If you're on a budget and just want a deeper rumble and a tiny bit more pep, a slip-on is fine.
However, if you want the real gains, you have to go with a full system. The stock head pipe is fairly narrow and has some pretty restrictive bends. A full yamaha raptor 700 exhaust kit replaces everything from the engine port to the tip. These head pipes are usually stepped or have a larger diameter to allow the exhaust gases to escape much faster. If you plan on doing other mods later, like an intake or internal engine work, a slip-on will eventually become a bottleneck. Just go full system from the start if you can swing the extra cash.
The Big Debate: Single vs. Dual Exhausts
You'll see a lot of Raptors out at the dunes running dual pipes. Since the Raptor 700 is a single-cylinder engine, you might wonder why it needs two mufflers. Truthfully, it doesn't need them, but there are some real benefits.
Duals look incredible. There is something symmetrical and aggressive about having a canister on both sides of the subframe. From a performance standpoint, duals offer more volume for the exhaust to move through, which can actually result in better top-end power without being quite as "raspy" as a big single pipe. Brands like Barker's and Monster are famous for their dual setups.
The downside? They're more expensive, heavier than a single aftermarket pipe, and take a bit more work to align perfectly during installation. If you're a racer looking for the absolute lightest setup, a high-quality single is usually the way to go. If you want the ultimate "cool factor" and a unique sound, duals are the winner.
Don't Forget the Fuel Controller
Here is the thing a lot of people miss: you can't just slap a yamaha raptor 700 exhaust on and go riding. The Raptor 700 is fuel-injected. When you put a high-flow exhaust on, you're letting way more air out of the engine. To keep the ratio right, the computer needs to be told to add more fuel.
If you run a new exhaust without a fuel controller (like a Power Commander or a Vortex), the bike will run lean. Running lean means the engine runs hotter, pops on deceleration, and can eventually cause damage to your valves. Plus, you won't even get the full power gains you paid for. Budget for a tuner when you buy your pipe—it's not really optional if you want the bike to last.
Materials Matter
Most exhausts you'll find are made from aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum is great because it's light and relatively cheap, but it can show wear faster if you're riding in muddy or salty conditions. Stainless steel is the workhorse. It's durable, handles heat well, and won't rust out on you.
Then there's titanium and carbon fiber. These are the "gucci" materials. They look amazing and weigh next to nothing, but they are expensive. Carbon fiber mufflers also tend to be a bit more fragile—if you tip the quad over in some rocks, a carbon canister might crack where an aluminum one would just get a scratch. If you're mostly a dune rider, carbon is fine. If you're a woods rider treading through tight trails, stick to metal.
Sound Levels and Spark Arrestors
We all love a deep, throaty exhaust note, but there's a limit. If you ride on public lands or in state parks, there are often decibel limits you have to follow. Some of the loudest pipes on the market can hit over 100dB, which might get you a ticket in certain areas.
Check if the yamaha raptor 700 exhaust you're looking at comes with a quiet core insert or a spark arrestor. Spark arrestors are mandatory in almost every forest or trail system to prevent forest fires. Most high-end brands like Yoshimura or HMF include them, or at least sell them as an add-on. It's better to have it and not need it than to get turned away at the trailhead.
Popular Brands to Watch
There are a few names that have dominated the Raptor scene for years. Barker's Performance is legendary for their duals and the "Barker's Bark." They have a very distinct, aggressive sound. Monster Quad is another heavy hitter, known for big-bore pipes that really scream.
If you want something a bit more refined and "factory" looking, Yoshimura makes some of the best-fitting pipes in the business. Their RS-2 system is a classic for a reason—it fits perfectly and has a very smooth power curve. HMF is the go-to for variety; they offer different series like the Titan or the Performance, allowing you to choose how loud or quiet you want to be.
Installation Tips
Installing a new exhaust on a Raptor 700 isn't rocket science, but it can be a bit fiddly. The hardest part is usually getting the old, rusty stock bolts off the cylinder head. Use some penetrating oil the night before to make your life easier.
When you're putting the new head pipe on, don't tighten everything down right away. Start all the bolts loosely, get the muffler hung on the subframe, and then tighten from the front to the back. This helps ensure there are no air leaks at the header flange. Also, make sure to wipe down the pipes with some rubbing alcohol before you start the bike for the first time. If you leave oily fingerprints on the stainless steel, they can actually "burn" into the metal permanently once the pipe gets hot.
Wrapping It Up
At the end of the day, picking a yamaha raptor 700 exhaust comes down to your personal style and where you ride. If you want the best performance and a look that turns heads, go for a full dual system and a high-flow intake. If you just want a bit more sound and a cleaner look without spending a fortune, a solid single slip-on will do the trick.
Just remember: whatever you choose, get that fuel controller dialed in. A Raptor that sounds like a beast but runs like crap because it's too lean isn't fun for anyone. Do it right, and you'll fall in love with your quad all over again every time you hit the thumb throttle.