Motorcycle Repair: Removing Baffles From Screaming Eagle Pipes, screaming eagle pipes, drag pipes

Question
I have an '04 883 Sportster. I put on Screaming Eagle pipes and had all the associated work done (rejetted carb and high flow air package). My question is can the baffles be removed from the Screaming Eagles and not change the bikes performance. I'm looking for the deeper rumble this will give me, but only if it won't damage my bike.

Answer
If you remove the baffles you will one, lean the bike out and two, lose performance. What you are doing is making drag pipes. Drag pipes work well at high RPMs, but will make you lose power at midrange and lowend. You would be better off getting some pipes that are tuned and give you the sound you are looking for.
Good luck and happy riding
Mike