Ok a little bit of context here. -I am nowhere close to be a mechanic, and clearly, I know very little about how bikes actually work, self servicing, etc... (it will come, just been riding since 2 days ) -It is mostly for appearances -Yes I have seen a couple of videos How easy is it really to put exhaust wrap on the pipes ? I read something about re-mapping and I have no idea what that means. Should I try to do it myself ? ( i won't blame you if I screw up )
Hi Samuel, first of all there is no need to change the fuelling map (ref re-mapping) within the bike's ECU if all you are going to do is wrap the pipes. I'm assuming you want to do this for the look ? It's dead easy to do. Clean and polish the pipes very thoroughly before you wrap them. Secure each end with something that will stand a bit of heat. Most peeps use copper core wire. Make sure when you do the wrapping that you get a good, overlapping tight fit.
First above all thank you for your answer the big lad. Secondly would you be kind enough to explain to me what is the fuelling map ? I could google it, but I'd rather exchange with humans if you don't mind. thank you.
A few tips on that job: soak the wrap before applying it to the bike (it'll allow you to wrap it much tighter around the pipes); start wrapping at the exhaust end, finish at the engine head (that way there'll be less dirt, etc getting stuck under the wrap overlaps); some people actually take the whole header pipe assembly off the bike: while this will allow you to do a much better job, it is not required (and it is a much bigger job). The fuel map has to do with the ECU in your bike, and as biglad stated, you needn't worry about it when wrapping your exhausts. It's a fairly complex subject, maybe start by reading the basics: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engine_control_unit
Agree with Mischa, soak the wrap first and start at the silencer end so that the overlap is the correct way. Depending on what wrap you buy, you should bet some form of fastening with the kit. Mine came with steel cable ties that were very easy to use and neater than wire. Some people use Jubilee clips at each end for extra security. This is on my Enfield but you get the idea.
Hi Samuel, the "fuelling map" is the generalised name for the set of parameters and tables the ECU uses to control the fuelling of a fuel injected vehicle - car or bike. The ECU is programmed with a set of instructions, plus a collection of sensors that measure things like air temp; engine temp; manifold pressure; crank position; fuel pressure; throttle position etc etc. The ECU receives these various inputs and using pre-determined information, times the injection and duration of fuel entering the engine. If changes are made to inlet and/or the exhaust side of the motor then the fuel map is changed or modified, to take these changes into account to maximise the modifications. Modifications are also often made to Bonnevilles to remove the exhaust pollution equipment that strangles the engine.
Can't get my head round why people wrap strange bandages round a perfectly good, shiny, exhaust pipe! If it was bruised, broken, bleeding or just plain sore and in need of ointment I could probably understand. But it seems not to be the case. In my humble opinion it looks like a bloody awful bodge job. However, you may think differently to me, and you are perfectly entitled to do so, with no hard feelings from me whatsoever. We need to be different. Variety is the spice of life, after all. I still don't like it though!
It has a separate heat shield which I left off when I wrapped it - but I wouldn't want to wear biglads shorts!
Thank you for your very open minded answer stevethegoolie. It is simply a purely aesthetic choice. I never liked chrome that much. Same for the engine covers which I will end up changing to matte black. Without falling to far into the major modern bike fashion of cafe racers, I do like the general style, the effort of simplification and minimalism. And I tend to go towards that, with my bonnie over the years. I am, after all a Graphic Designer, and a photographer who started in the Parisian Fashion, no wonder I am influenced by style. And thank you very much for this very clear answer BigLad !
Wrapping is one of those things you either love or hate. I would say take the exhaust off thou. Then wrap it. That way it looks half decent rather than something the cat dragged in. Taking the exhaust on/off is an easy job. All you need is a socket set and replacement exhaust gaskets.
Thanks mate. Started life as a blue 05 plate Electra X, but previous owner had the full Hitchcocks Trials conversion done and removed the electric start. All I've really done is replace the CV carb with an Amal Mk I concentric one. The bike runs much better with it.
If you do take the exhaust off where the exhaust goes into the engine there is a copper sealing gasket. They are one use and need to be replaced when the exhaust is put back on.
Wrap looks good on some bikes and bobbers / rat bikes but what will pipe look like when wrap removed??