Engine

Published on November 13th, 2012 | by Joe

Gibson Performance SFT Kawasaki Teryx Exhaust Test

Gibson Performance is well known in the truck and automotive industry for its power-building, fuel-saving, high-performance exhausts. With the explosion of the side-by-side industry, Gibson saw a budding market in which to apply their performance exhaust building talents. Looking to upgrade the fun factor of our Kawasaki Teryx Sport, we decided to try one of Gibson’s exhausts for ourselves.

Technical Stuff.

We wanted to enhance performance, but didn’t want all the extra noise or added maintenance that accompanies most aftermarket exhausts. Gibson Performance’s Superflow SFT exhaust is claimed to add 7 horsepower to the Teryx. The slip-on system is constructed of stainless steel and comes in either a satin or high temperature black ceramic finish. The exhaust comes with a USFS approved spark arrestor, tucked inside its polished T-304 stainless steel end cap. Gibson also offers an accessory turn down end cap, redirecting heat and sound, while providing a different look.

The coolest feature of the Gibson system is its packing free design. Instead of relying on fiberglass to absorb sound, Gibson uses the internal design and shape of the muffler to reduce noise output, the same way they do in their high performance truck and automotive exhausts. This means you never have to repack it!

The Test

Adding the Gibson exhaust takes a few pounds off the Teryx. It took well under an hour to remove the stock exhaust and install our Gibson unit. Fitment was precise, making installation a breeze. At a glance, the satin finished Gibson exhaust looks similar to the stock exhaust, although a bit dressed up.

With the system installed, we headed to Bills 491 Off Road, located in Demossville, Kentucky to put it to the test. When we fired up the Teryx, we were greeted by the Gibson Exhaust’s low rumble. It sounds meaner, without the ear bleeding sound output we have heard on some pure race systems. The increase in power was most notable in the lower end and midrange, pulling harder from a dead stop and exiting tight turns. The extra low end also helped the Teryx pull hills a little easier lower in the RPMs.

Under deceleration we did notice some popping. The Gibson exhaust clearly flowed better than stock as it leaned the Teryx out a bit. You will need to add an aftermarket fuel management system with a richer map to take full advantage of this exhaust. We would expect this result from any freer flowing exhaust. Throttle response remained crisp with the Gibson system, in spite of the stock fuel mapping. We would expect it to get even better with a remap.

The Verdict.

The Gibson exhaust improved the Teryx power where we wanted it most. The improvement was subtle, but noticeable, even with the stock fuel injection settings. The sound output is surprisingly low for an aftermarket system, which is good even on private land. Best of all, you’ll never have to repack the Gibson muffler, reducing maintenance time and maintaining a consistently pleasant sound output. Its price is middle-of- the-road compared to the other slip-on systems on the market. It’s not a full-on race system, but it is a nice option for the trail rider wanting a little more power, and less weight, while remaining sound sensitive.

Manufacturer; Gibson Performance

Product; Gibson Performance SFT Kawasaki Teryx Exhaust

Price;