Motorcycle Repair: 1991 Honda ATV, exhaust flange, exhaust gasket

Question
This ATV seems to run fine except when gearing down while going down hill, then it backfires. The muffler seems a little louder than most. Any suggestions? Thanks, Gary

Answer
Gary, depending on the model sometimes the muffler baffels are rusting out and become loose and make the system louder. However the exhaust gasket between the cylinder head and the exhaust flange on the pipe can draw in air and backfire on deceleration. It may need replaced or just tightened up. Also just check for any weird holes in the system that would allow air in.