The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX is a brilliant blend of sportbike performance and touring comfort. However, one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make is to replace the stock system with a high-quality Ninja 1000SX exhaust. Whether you're chasing more aggressive sound, reduced weight, or increased horsepower, the right exhaust can transform your ride.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best exhausts for the Ninja 1000SX, examining their features, benefits, and how they can elevate your riding experience.
Why Upgrade Your Ninja 1000SX Exhaust?
1. Improved Sound
The factory exhaust on the Ninja 1000SX is fairly conservative. Aftermarket options deliver deeper, throatier tones—turning heads and enhancing your bike’s character.
2. Increased Power and Performance
Many performance exhausts improve airflow, reduce backpressure, and unlock horsepower and torque—especially when paired with an ECU tune.
3. Weight Reduction
Stock exhausts are often bulky and heavy due to catalytic converters and sound dampening. Premium aftermarket systems use materials like titanium or carbon fiber to shed weight.
4. Sleek Aesthetics
Beyond performance, an aftermarket Ninja 1000SX exhaust gives your bike a sharper, more aggressive look that matches its sporty DNA.
Top Exhausts for the Ninja 1000SX
Here are the best options that strike a perfect balance between performance, style, and price.
1. Akrapovič Slip-On Exhaust
Best for Premium Performance and Sound
Pros:
Lightweight titanium construction
Deep, aggressive tone without being overly loud
Substantial weight savings
ECE-approved (street legal in many countries)
Why it stands out:
Akrapovič is synonymous with quality. This slip-on exhaust improves the Ninja 1000SX's tone and responsiveness without compromising emissions standards.
Estimated Power Gain: ~2-3 HP
Weight Savings: Up to 4 kg
2. Yoshimura Alpha T Slip-On
Best for Aggressive Styling
Pros:
Signature carbon fiber tip
Loud, race-inspired tone
High-flow design
Excellent build quality
Why it stands out:
Yoshimura’s Alpha T slip-on gives your Ninja 1000SX exhaust a bold look and sound. It’s ideal for riders who want an edgy aesthetic and commanding presence on the road.
Estimated Power Gain: ~2.5 HP
Weight Savings: ~3.5 kg
3. SC-Project S1 GP Exhaust
Best for Racing Performance
Pros:
Compact, GP-style design
Titanium or carbon fiber options
Unmatched aggressive sound
Extremely lightweight
Why it stands out:
If you're after race-inspired looks and a roar that screams performance, the SC-Project S1 GP is hard to beat. It’s minimal and massively powerful in sound output.
Estimated Power Gain: ~3 HP
Weight Savings: ~5 kg
4. Two Brothers S1R Black Series
Best for American Muscle Sound
Pros:
Unique deep and throaty exhaust note
Carbon fiber canister
Designed and built in the USA
Aggressive blacked-out finish
Why it stands out:
This Ninja 1000SX exhaust is perfect for riders who want to stand out. With a brawny sound and dark styling, the S1R delivers serious attitude.
Estimated Power Gain: ~3 HP
Weight Savings: ~4 kg
5. LeoVince LV One EVO
Best for Budget Performance
Pros:
Stainless steel build with carbon fiber end cap
Affordable pricing
Noticeable sound upgrade
Durable and corrosion-resistant
Why it stands out:
The LeoVince LV One EVO offers excellent value for money. It improves your Ninja’s sound and look without the premium price tag of some competitors.
Estimated Power Gain: ~2 HP
Weight Savings: ~3 kg
6. Arrow Race-Tech Exhaust
Best for Customization Options
Pros:
Available in titanium, aluminum, and carbon finishes
Compatible with and without dB killer
Track-ready performance
High-quality Italian engineering
Why it stands out:
Arrow offers a customizable approach to your Ninja 1000SX exhaust. Choose your materials, tips, and tone to match your style and sound preferences.
Estimated Power Gain: ~3 HP
Weight Savings: ~4.5 kg
Slip-On vs. Full System – Which is Right for You?
Slip-On Exhausts
Easier to install
Generally more affordable
Primarily changes sound and weight
Full System Exhausts
Replaces headers and mid-pipes
Greater power gains
Ideal for racing or aggressive tuning
Usually requires ECU remapping
Recommendation:
For most Ninja 1000SX riders, a slip-on exhaust provides enough sound and performance gain without complicating emissions or tuning. However, if you're aiming for full performance potential, a complete system may be worth the investment.
Considerations Before Buying
1. Local Emissions Regulations
Some aftermarket exhausts aren’t road-legal in certain regions. Check for ECE or EPA compliance before buying.
2. ECU Remapping
Some exhausts (especially full systems) require a remap for optimal performance and to prevent engine issues.
3. Warranty and Insurance
Make sure your ninja 1000sx exhaust upgrade doesn’t void your motorcycle’s warranty or insurance policy.
4. Personal Sound Preference
Loud pipes might sound thrilling—but they can get fatiguing over long rides. Pick a tone that suits your riding style.
Conclusion
Upgrading to an aftermarket Ninja 1000SX exhaust is one of the most rewarding modifications you can make. From a thunderous roar to sleek, weight-saving design, the right exhaust can breathe new life into your bike.
Whether you choose the refined power of Akrapovič, the aggressive growl of Yoshimura, or the value-packed LeoVince, each of these systems can transform your riding experience. Just be sure to match your choice with your goals—whether that’s more power, better sound, or pure street style.
With the perfect exhaust, your Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX will not only look and sound incredible but also perform at its peak.
