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, according to the enthusiast community.
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 headers installed