One side hotter than the other

[ChrisK]

Ever since I've owned my bike I've noticed that one pipe "smokes" more when warming up in cold weather. Since I've installed the new slip-ons, I've noticed that one is getting darker than the other around the rim. Yesterday, while the bike was idling I put my hands in front of each of the pipes and I easily noticed a difference in heat output from each of them. The hotter pipe was the darker pipe and the side that has always smoked a little more. I'm very certain each side's carb is tuned the exact same. What causes this and is it a problem?

[ducpainter]

It's pretty typical.

My 96 only 'smokes' out the right can on warmup...it isn't smoke, it's steam.

Bruce Meyers told me it has something to do with the way the crossover flows.

He only lied to me a couple times, so I believe him.

[ChrisK]

I kinda figured it had something to do with the crossover this whole time, but I had never felt the heat difference for my self, so I had to ask. The one side felt like a blow dryer, the other side felt like a fan.

But if it's normal, great!

[Speeddog]

Take a look at the direction that the rear header enters the crossover, and see that it will direct a good bit more exhaust to the right side.

[memper]

I have been told that each cylinder's needs are not equal and that similarly each carb will be tuned differently.

[oldndumb]

^ True dat. 

[ChrisK]

I have been told that each cylinder's needs are not equal and that similarly each carb will be tuned differently.

That's probably true, but I'm thinking the only efficient way to get that done is with a dyno and some fancy emissions testing equipment... none of which I have access to.

[memper]

That's probably true, but I'm thinking the only efficient way to get that done is with a dyno and some fancy emissions testing equipment... none of which I have access to.

Well sure if you want to get it spot on. But with some various jets, some spark plugs, a dual vacuum gauge and a whole lotta patience, it can be done on your own. Or you can say fcuk it and spend your spring riding instead of tuning.

[lpgoldtop]

HD air cooled twins do that too. Only 1 carb on them and they do it even in the best of tune. I've noticed it more so in the crossover exhaust systems. I've always been told it has to do the x-over in the exhaust .