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zx9r header vs. aftermarket z1000 header?

10679 Views 12 Replies 5 Participants Last post by  nopulse95
I recently just purchased the zx9r header after doing some research on it.

I understand that there was some research on the stock zx9 header outperforming the aftermarket zx9 headers. It this the case when comparing it to the aftermarket z1000 headers as well? I would think that they would be very similar but was wondering if anyone had any hard data to back it up.

Research didn't get me many hard numbers. Thanks all!

-Mike
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This is a good question. I am thinking of doing something different with the exhaust and would hate to chop up a nice aftermarket one. So a zx9r header would be a much better doner.

Anyone had both? Even if it hasn't been on a dyno, butt dyno would still give an idea of the difference between them.
I cant imagine the stock ZX9R header being better than aftermarket pikes specifically made for the Z such as Muzzy or Ak's, but I guess you never know. The ZX9R header will be better than the stock Z1000 exhaust, and will give you a ton of option if your looking for a single sided look.

I will probably have some Muzzy headers for the Z up for sale soon. I just bought another exhaust so if I like it better than my current setup I will sell it. I will probably be wanting more for it than what you could pic up ZX9R headers for though
Very true. I would guess that an aftermarket one would be a better performer than the stock zx9r, but you just never know. Or if it's just a slight difference, it would be worth getting the 9 just because you can pick up a used one for $50.

Main reason I wonder about this is that I could sell my better set up and get a zx9r one on the cheap and chop it up if the performance would be close.
Very true. I would guess that an aftermarket one would be a better performer than the stock zx9r, but you just never know. Or if it's just a slight difference, it would be worth getting the 9 just because you can pick up a used one for $50.

Main reason I wonder about this is that I could sell my better set up and get a zx9r one on the cheap and chop it up if the performance would be close.
Yea, I would say it would be worth a shot, especially if you can weld or have a fried who can weld for free or cheap. If not that can get pretty pricey.
A few years ago I read a post someone put up about testing a number of different headers on a ZX9r on another forum. On the dyno they got the best overall results with the oem header and a slip on. Aftermarket will certainly be lighter. Look at the zx9r header design and it's very obvious they put some research into getting the optimum design. Just because it has "super-duper racing performance" printed on it doesn't mean it's light years better.
Very true also(about how "sdrp" doesn't mean it's better), but still the ZX9 headers were designed for the 9 and not the Z. I'm hoping someone who has had both will jump in and tell us their thoughts on ZX9R vs. aftermarket Z1000 on a Z1000.
PM TheOne, I think he has had both if I remember right
I'm going to bet the difference in performance between the choices is marginal at best. On a budget, willing to put a little elbow grease into it? Throw on the zx9r header and can of your choice. Got the money and want the bling? Aftermarket. Having the bike tuned afterwards is important.
I had both installed on my 03 Z1k. First was a full D&D system designed for a ZX9r. I didn't have a power commander, therefore I can't tell you how it would perform with a correct map and dyno tune. But as it was, I lost a lot of bottom end. I then bought a stock zx9r header, Had a midpipe custom bent from a local exhaust shop, and installed a yoshimure TRC exhaust can. Again, I didn't have a power commander, but this setup out performed the full D&D system.

I think unless your going to have a custom map, and are searching for those last few horspower's, Your money is better spent on a used zx9r header. I'd save the few hundred dollars. Just my .02 cents
Thanks, nopulse.

1 for ZX9R header setup w/o tune.
I had both installed on my 03 Z1k. First was a full D&D system designed for a ZX9r. I didn't have a power commander, therefore I can't tell you how it would perform with a correct map and dyno tune. But as it was, I lost a lot of bottom end. I then bought a stock zx9r header, Had a midpipe custom bent from a local exhaust shop, and installed a yoshimure TRC exhaust can. Again, I didn't have a power commander, but this setup out performed the full D&D system.

I think unless your going to have a custom map, and are searching for those last few horspower's, Your money is better spent on a used zx9r header. I'd save the few hundred dollars. Just my .02 cents
How was the d&d sound-wise, every one I've ever heard would make your ears bleed. Those things were designed for all out racing on closed courses.
the D&D, imagine the loudest thing you've ever heard, then multiply that by 2. Really it was obnoxious. It was however super light, and I bought it so cheap it was worth a try. I wouldn't recommend it however, unless your ride by yourself, and with earplugs.
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