Motorcycle Repair: 2005 XL1200C Exhaust, loud bikes, drag pipes

Question
Mike,  I have a 2005 XL1200C that is fully stock.  Everything is great except for the sound.  I do not want to make the entire neighborhood mad by running drag pipes, I'm just looking for some additional sound so that cars around me are aware that I am next to them [As they say, loud bikes save lives...].  I'm quite happy with the performance of the bike.  Can you offer any suggestions?  Are the Screaming Eagle stage I pipes [with rejetting and bigger air intake] worth the $600 bill?  Are there other alternatives out there?  Thanks.

Answer
There are many exhaust mufflers out there as well as air boxes the are alot less then the harley brand and work just as well.
I would start by checking out the mufflers out on other bikes and see which ones you like the sound of. Ask the rider what he has on his bike. usually they will be more than glad to tell you. One brand that comes to mind is Cycle Shak brand. They have a great throaty sound and are not that expensive.
As to the rejetting. I would install a Dyna-jet kit inthe carb. You should be able to do it yourself, has great directions and comes with all the parts you need. I t will give you more throttle responce and correct the lean condition that you are going to experence fromchanging the air box and mufflers.
As to the air box, get you a high flow air filter. take the back plate off the bike and drill some holes in it. make sure the holes you drill are on the outside of the air filter, so the air have to go through the filter.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike