The FMF Powerline full-system exhaust gave our Outlaw a boost on the top end and an even bigger aesthetic shot in the arm.
Our
Polaris Outlaw 525 IRS test quad is one impressive ATV, but like any stock bike, there're plenty of things we'd like to do to it for performance and increased bling factor. One of the major areas of drawback with the IRS system is in weight. Polaris' claimed difference between the IRS and straight axle models is 20 pounds. Some of the best ways to drop pounds and add performance is with an aftermarket exhaust system, so we put in a call to
FMF and had them recommend a suitable alternative to meet the needs of our 2008 Outlaw test quad.
The Scoop
Stainless steel is tough and hands-off when it comes to maintenance. That's exactly why it is used exclusively on both the muffler and header. In addition to adding a little shine and smoother lines where there was previously only the crusty black of our stock unit, the Powerline and PowerBomb combo give a different sound and feel. The stainless material is a core representation of what the Powerline stands for - durability and long-lasting function. Unlike traditional mufflers, this model uses a completely mechanical design to disperse its decibels. There is no packing inside the can. The PowerBomb header allows expansion and cooling of gasses, but also works as a sound damper. Combined, the output of our fiberglass-less system was a comfortable 95dB on the big-bore IRS.
"Not only does the machine look and sound better, but the power curve has been altered slightly"
There is a slight sacrifice on the bottom end to make way for high-rpm improvement. Due to the 525's torquey nature, we don't really mind.
Not only does the machine look and sound better, but the power curve has been altered slightly. Peak horsepower numbers are unchanged, but the motor is able to keep more ponies churning out in the higher rpm. The 525 peaks 500 rpm later at 7240 with 33.5 HP. While the stocker began to fall off, the FMF-equipped Outlaw continues to hold strong with nearly 32 ponies all the way to redline. Torque is delivered much the same but the Powerline actually drew a little extra with a 27 lb-ft. at 6K rpm, just a few hundred lower than stock. Again, the top-end pull is well-defined by our Dynojet, something we plan to make good use of on an upcoming dune trip. The downside is that both categories are both less than the stock output in the bottom half of the rev range.
The Sentence
We would have liked to see a gain across the board, but finding a pipe combo that truly accomplishes that is tough regardless. Horsepower especially takes a hit, but the 525 motor is so strong and luggable that we weren't too concerned with a slightly lower bottom-end tradeoff. The upper revs receive the benefit as well as a cleaner look and less maintenance with the mechanical design. We have no doubts that this pipe will continue to offer its performance characteristics as the miles rack up. Throw in a US Forestry approved spark arrestor and the FMF Powerline muffler and PowerBomb header are a good fit for the Polaris Outlaw 525 IRS.
Product: FMF Powerline Full-System Exhaust
MSRP: $599.99
Buy It Now: FMF Powerline Exhaust
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