Triumph X-Pipe vs Competition Header

At British Customs, we understand the thrill of transforming your motorcycle into something uniquely yours. Whether you’re aiming for improved performance, a sportier exhaust note, or a lighter ride, your Triumph deserves the best parts to bring out its full potential. Two popular options for upgrading your exhaust system are the British Customs Competition Headers and the British Customs X-Pipe. But which is the right choice for your ride? Let's dive into the details.

Competition Headers: A Complete Exhaust Solution

The British Customs Competition Headers are designed to replace the stock headers, mid-pipes, and catalytic converter, transforming your exhaust system into a performance powerhouse.

Key Features

• Innovative Crossover Pipe Design: The Competition Headers feature a crossover pipe, similar to an X-pipe, which improves exhaust flow and balances exhaust pulses.
• Weight Reduction: You'll significantly reduce weight by removing the catalytic converter and optimizing the exhaust layout. The stock head pipes, mid-pipes, and catalytic converter collectively weigh 16.65 lbs, while the Competition Headers weigh in at 7.3 lbs (measured on a 2024 Bonneville T100). This saves you 9.3 lbs, giving you a lighter, more agile ride. To reduce the weight further, consider adding a British Customs Slip-On Exhasut.
• Premium Materials: Crafted from 100% 304 stainless steel, these headers are built to last. Durable and heat-resistant, they ensure your Triumph can take on any challenge you throw its way.
• Performance Gains: A well-designed header system offers comprehensive performance gains across the RPM range. The free-flowing design improves power and torque, making acceleration smoother and more responsive.
• Made for Triumph: The Competition Headers are designed specifically for Triumph models, including the Bonneville T120, Street Twin, Thruxton 1200, and Bobber, and have been tested with all British Customs Slip-On Exhaust.

The Competition Headers are perfect for riders looking to overhaul their entire exhaust system. They bring enhanced power and a deep, resonant exhaust note to match.

The X-Pipe: A Precision Performance Upgrade

The British Customs X-Pipe is a more focused upgrade, ideal for riders looking to improve performance while retaining certain elements of their stock exhaust. The X-Pipe is only available for non-Euro 5 models of liquid-cooled Triumph motorcycles manufactured before 2022, with the exception of the Triumph Bobber and the Triumph Thruxton R, RS, and Speed Twin 1200. This is because Euro 5 models have the mid-pipes welded to the catalytic converter.

Key Features

• Dedicated X-Shape: Unlike the Competition Headers, the X-Pipe features a more pronounced X-shaped intersection, enhancing exhaust flow and promoting balance between the pipes.
• Improved Exhaust Pulse Equalization: Our X-configuration helps equalize exhaust pulses for a smoother flow, resulting in a refined exhaust note and more efficient performance.
• Enhanced Scavenging Effect: The X-design optimizes scavenging, helping extract exhaust gases more effectively and contributing to improved throttle response. 
• High-RPM Performance: X-pipes are known for improving high-RPM performance due to their scavenging effect. *
• Weight Reduction: The stock catalytic converter (non-Euro 5 models) weighs 5.65 lbs. The X-Pipe weighs only 1.25 lbs, resulting in a weight savings of 4.4 lbs.  To save additional weight, consider adding a British Customs Slip-On Exhasut.

The X-Pipe is an ideal choice for riders who want an upgrade that delivers performance enhancements and a balanced exhaust note while preserving some of the existing components of their Triumph’s exhaust.

Key Differences Between Competition Headers and X-Pipe

• Design Philosophy: Both options feature crossover elements, but the Competition Headers replace a broader range of components, providing a more extensive exhaust system upgrade. The X-Pipe is a dedicated upgrade focusing on improving exhaust flow and sound while retaining some original parts.
• Installation Scope: With the Competition Headers, you’re replacing the headers, mid-pipes, and catalytic converter in one piece, which can simplify the installation. In contrast, the X-Pipe is added to the existing system.
• Sound Characteristics: Both upgrades enhance the exhaust note, but the tone varies. The X-Pipe tends to create a balanced, harmonized exhaust sound, while the Competition Headers deliver a deeper and more aggressive growl.
• Performance Tuning: To maximize either option, we recommend additional tuning, such as using a Power Commander V to optimize performance gains.

Note: The X-Pipe and Competition Headers are intended for off-road/closed circuit use only and are not legal for use on public roads. These products cannot be sold or used in California. Please check your local laws to ensure compliance.

Which Exhaust Upgrade is Right for You?

Choosing between the Competition Headers and the X-Pipe comes down to your personal preferences and goals. If you're looking for an all-in-one exhaust overhaul that provides a significant boost in performance, power, and sound, the Competition Headers are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a focused upgrade that balances performance, exhaust flow, and sound while keeping some stock elements, the X-Pipe might be your perfect match.

At British Customs, we believe every rider deserves a bike that’s as unique as their journey. With either of these exhaust upgrades, you’re not just improving your motorcycle’s performance—you’re connecting more deeply with your ride, making it your own.

Ready to take your Triumph to the next level? Start your customization journey with British Customs today and unleash your ride's full potential.