If you're looking to swap out your stock 2020 low rider s exhaust, you've probably realized that the factory setup is a bit too quiet for such a mean-looking machine. Don't get me wrong, the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine is a beast right off the showroom floor, but Harley-Davidson has to follow some pretty strict noise and emission laws. This means the bike ends up sounding a bit more like a sewing machine than a heavy-hitting cruiser.
Upgrading the pipes is usually the first thing most owners do. It's not just about making more noise, though that's definitely a perk. It's also about shedding some serious weight, improving the bike's throttle response, and letting that 114-cubic-inch engine finally breathe. But with so many options out there, it's easy to get overwhelmed by all the different styles and brands.
Why the Stock Exhaust Just Doesn't Cut It
The stock 2020 low rider s exhaust is a 2-into-2 system with those big, heavy mufflers. While they look okay in a "classic" kind of way, they are incredibly restrictive. If you've ever taken them off, you know exactly how much they weigh—it's like carrying around a small boat anchor on the side of your bike.
By switching to an aftermarket system, you're usually cutting that weight in half. More importantly, you're getting rid of the catalytic converter that's stuffed inside. This helps the engine run cooler, which is a huge plus for those hot summer days when you're stuck in traffic.
Deciding Between 2-into-1 and 2-into-2 Systems
This is the big debate in the Low Rider S community. Do you go for the performance-focused 2-into-1 look, or do you stick with the balanced aesthetics of a 2-into-2 setup?
The Case for 2-into-1 Pipes
Most guys riding the FXLRS (that's the model code for the Low Rider S) lean toward a 2-into-1 system. Why? Because the Low Rider S is built for "performance cruising." It has the inverted forks and the dual disc brakes, so it makes sense to put a performance pipe on it.
A 2-into-1 system uses scavenging technology to pull exhaust gases out of the cylinder more efficiently. This usually results in a significant bump in low-end and mid-range torque. If you like pulling hard away from stoplights, a 2-into-1 is probably your best bet. Plus, they give the bike that aggressive, "club style" look that's so popular right now.
The Case for 2-into-2 Pipes
On the flip side, some people just love the look of two separate pipes running down the side of the bike. Brands like Vance & Hines make some great-looking 2-into-2 systems like the Shortshots or Big Radius.
While you might sacrifice a tiny bit of torque compared to a high-end 2-into-1, the sound is often much louder and more "traditional" Harley. It's a crisper, sharper crackle. If you aren't chasing every single horsepower on a dyno sheet, a 2-into-2 system will still feel like a massive upgrade over stock.
Top Brands for Your 2020 Low Rider S
When you start shopping for a 2020 low rider s exhaust, a few names are going to keep popping up. Here are the ones that most riders swear by.
Bassani Xhaust
The Bassani Road Rage is practically the gold standard for this bike. It's an upswept 2-into-1 system that fits the lines of the Low Rider S perfectly. It has a deep, throaty growl that isn't overly obnoxious at idle but absolutely screams when you twist the throttle. It's also built like a tank.
S&S Cycle
S&S has been in the game forever, and their Sidewinder 2-into-1 is a fantastic choice. What's cool about S&S is that they focus heavily on engineering. Their pipes often include removable DB reducers, so if you're worried about waking up the neighbors every single morning, you have some control over the volume.
Two Brothers Racing (TBR)
If you want a more "sporty" sound, the TBR Comp-S is a killer option. It's incredibly light because it uses a carbon fiber end cap and thin-wall stainless steel. The sound is a bit more high-pitched and raspy compared to the Bassani, giving the bike a bit of a racing vibe.
Don't Forget About the Tuner
Here is the thing a lot of people forget: if you change your 2020 low rider s exhaust to a full system, you must tune the bike. The M8 engine is already tuned to run fairly lean from the factory to pass emissions. When you add a high-flow exhaust, you're letting even more air move through the engine, which makes it run even leaner.
Running too lean can cause the engine to run hot, pop on deceleration, and eventually, it could even damage your valves. A simple "stage 1" tune using something like the Vance & Hines FuelPak (FP3 or FP4) or a Dynojet Power Vision will make the bike run smoother, cooler, and faster. It's honestly the best couple hundred bucks you can spend to protect your investment.
The Sound of the M8 Engine
It's worth noting that the Milwaukee-Eight engine sounds different than the older Twin Cam or Evolution engines. Because it has four valves per cylinder and a different cam setup, the "potato-potato" sound is a bit more rhythmic and less chaotic.
When you pick an exhaust for your 2020 model, you're looking for something that brings out that deep bass. A lot of the cheaper pipes can sound "tinny" on an M8. You want a pipe with a good amount of backpressure and quality baffling to keep the tone deep and rich.
Installation: DIY or Pro Shop?
Swapping out an exhaust on a Softail like the Low Rider S isn't rocket science, but it can be a bit of a pain if you don't have the right tools. You'll need a good set of Torx bits, some sockets, and a bit of patience.
The hardest part is usually getting the flange nuts tight without scratching your shiny new pipes. Also, always buy new exhaust gaskets. Don't try to reuse the old ones; they're "crush" gaskets designed for a single use. If you reuse them, you're almost guaranteed to have an exhaust leak, which sounds terrible and ruins your performance.
If you aren't comfortable turning a wrench, any local independent shop can probably swap the pipes in about an hour or two. It's a straightforward job for a pro.
The "Slip-On" Alternative
If you're on a budget or you actually like the look of the stock headers, you can just go with slip-on mufflers. This is the cheapest way to get a better sound out of your 2020 low rider s exhaust setup.
Slip-ons are exactly what they sound like—you remove the stock mufflers and slide the new ones onto the factory head pipes. You won't get the same performance gains as a full 2-into-1 system, but you'll definitely get the volume and tone you're looking for. It's a great "middle ground" if you aren't ready to drop $1,200 on a full stainless steel system.
Final Thoughts on Upgrading
At the end of the day, your bike should reflect how you ride. If you're a canyon carver who likes to lean deep into corners, go with a high-clearance 2-into-1 system like the Bassani or TBR. If you're more about the classic cruiser look and want to be heard from three blocks away, a set of Vance & Hines 2-into-2s will do the trick nicely.
The 2020 low rider s exhaust market is huge, so take your time and watch some videos of different setups. Just remember that YouTube videos never quite capture the true "thump" of the exhaust in person. If you can, go to a local bike night and see what other M8 owners are running. Most bikers are more than happy to rev their engine for you if you ask nicely!
Whatever you choose, getting rid of that stock "quiet" exhaust is going to make you fall in love with your Low Rider S all over again. There's nothing quite like that first ride after an upgrade when you finally hear what your engine is supposed to sound like. Safe riding!