Original Kerker 3-2-1 system3-2 Overlander (Kerker) Headers
I realized that in order to mount the hard bags I needed to find a 3-2 system that would allow them to mount. The original 3-2 Standard system cost $800 in 1979 and has long been out of production and unavailable from Yamaha. I wanted to try something different anyway. The best exhaust system ever made for the triple by the aftermarket was the Kerker 3-2-1. It was unique for a couple of reasons.
The Kerker featured a split center pipe reminiscent of the old Triumph/BSA 750cc triple center pipe. It also featured an unusual configuration by blending the three pipes into two then finally into a single one on the right side. Evidently Kerker did their homework because this system produced the best performance the triple ever delivered with a non-racing exhaust system. The power band was widened and the torque and horse power were measurably increased. I wondered if a 3-2 system utilizing a split center pipe would deliver a similar increase in performance and allow for the use of dual mufflers that I wanted.
I canvassed many of the stainless steel exhaust system fabricators in North America. After they heard my plans and saw my drawings I never heard back from any of them. When I made my pitch to Barry Bligh at Overlander in OZ (Australia) he was not only receptive, but he was enthusiastic about the project. Barry and I began several weeks of email communications before his first attempt at fabrication of the 3-2 arrived for testing. It was damn close. I photographed the problem areas and added extensive descriptions and returned it to him for tweaking.
When I got them back the second time they were so close that I decided to use them as is. They still had a little too much up angle and had to be bent some to fit properly.
Original Kerker 3-2-1 system
Overlander (Kerker) 3-2
Overlander 3-2 installed