AF Rayspeed Clubman

[mikeyb1]

Hello folks, recently bought a 42mm AF Rayspeed Clubman exhaust c/w U bend from a reputable supplier( proper shop, not an e-bay special). Scooter is a Series 3 150, bored out to 175, 175 head, no other mods to cylinder, so original height etc. Bolted on the U bend, after filing down the edges of the flange before it would fit between the cylinder fins, and re-fitted the cylinder cowl, Tried to fit the exhaust box. It sat hard against the cylinder cowl and yet the top mounting bracket still had at least 20mm to go before it would sit against the crankcase. The tailpipe clamp was also mis-aligned with it's mounting stud. Removed the U bend and tried to fit the box on it's own. If I lined up the tailpipe fixing (clamp is welded to the pipe) the main clamp would not even fit onto it's studs because the bracket fouled on the bulge of the crankcase. If I fitted it at the front first, it still hit the cowl and the tailpipe clamp was 10mm too high. I have e-mailed the retailer expressing my disappointment and disgust regarding what I consider to be an item unfit for purpose, but have yet to receive a response. What I would like to know is, is this a common problem with these exhausts? Are there any Clubman exhausts that fit properly, without spending a fortune? Just as a matter of interest I refitted the rusted out old standard exhaust. It slipped on beautifully. It's not difficult to weld up a bit of sheetmetal and make it fit properly, so how come my £100+ exhaust is so shoddy? TTFN Mike.

[Fast n Furious]

I think that you've just proved that the term "reputable" is a contentious one!

[mikeyb1]

You're so right.

[ToBoldlyGo]

You should stick with your standard exhaust. Designed to fit properly. Besides which a Clubman really doesn't offer a lot more.

[mikeyb1]

Respect your opinion To Boldy Go, however I have often fancied a Clubman, so bought what I assumed should have been of decent quality, considering that it was a respected manufacturer. I spoke to the retailer, who couldn't have been more hepfull. They admitted that as these systems are made in India, the quality can vary and they have encountered duff ones before. Guess I was just unlucky. Anyway the shop refunded my payment in full and sent me a prepaid label and arranged courier collection the very next day. Yesterday I ordered a Scootopia Clubman from TASS which arrived this afternoon. Would have popped down to Scootopia but they are out of stock until January. Did a trial fit and it fits a treat.

[ToBoldlyGo]

No problem with that Mikeyb1. The clubman is a good exhaust. I've used them myself, and still do. Exhausts are always a personal thing and what suits one might not suit another. It's just a funny thing. I run two scooters on standard exhausts and they go so well I honestly think to myself what is the point of anything larger. It's not just that extra few MPH at the top, but the overall experience. They are a well mannered exhaust and just do what they are supposed too. I'm glad to hear that you got yourself sorted out anyway.