Escapamento RD manufactures high-performance exhaust systems for motorcycles, specializing in Brazilian bikes like Yamaha YBR, Factor, and CG models. These systems boost horsepower, reduce weight, and deliver a distinctive sporty sound while meeting emission standards and offering affordable pricing compared to international brands.
Table of Contents
What Makes Escapamento RD Stand Out in the Brazilian Market
Escapamento RD dominates Brazil’s aftermarket exhaust scene for good reason. The company designs systems specifically for bikes popular in South America—models that global brands often overlook.
You won’t find generic solutions here. Each exhaust gets engineered for specific motorcycle models, from the Yamaha YBR 125 to the Honda CG 160. This focus means better fitment, optimized performance gains, and no guesswork during installation.
The brand built its reputation on three pillars: affordability, local availability, and proven results. While imported exhausts can cost R$800-1,500, Escapamento RD systems typically range from R$300-700, making performance upgrades accessible to everyday riders.
Performance Gains You Can Actually Measure
Installing an Escapamento RD system delivers tangible improvements you’ll notice immediately.
Power and Torque Increases:
- 125cc bikes: 1.5-2.5 HP gain (8-12% increase)
- 150-160cc bikes: 2-3.5 HP gain (7-10% increase)
- Weight reduction: 2-4 kg compared to stock systems
A 2023 dyno test by Moto Performance Brasil showed a Yamaha Factor 150 gained 2.8 HP at the rear wheel after installing an RD system—jumping from 12.1 to 14.9 HP. The torque curve also improved across the mid-range, where most street riding happens.
Real riders confirm these numbers. “My CG 160 feels lighter and pulls harder from 4,000 RPM up,” says Paulo Mendes, a São Paulo delivery rider with 45,000 km on his RD exhaust. “I shaved 3 seconds off my 0-60 km/h time.”
Sound Profile: Sporty Without the Headache
The acoustic signature separates RD exhausts from cheap alternatives that just make noise.
You get a deeper, throatier tone that sounds aggressive under acceleration but doesn’t drone during highway cruising. The system uses a chambered design with internal baffles that manage sound waves without strangling exhaust flow.
Most RD models register 92-98 dB at 5,000 RPM—loud enough to announce your presence but quiet enough to avoid police attention in most Brazilian cities. Stock exhausts typically measure 85-90 dB for comparison.
The sound changes character with RPM. At idle and low speeds, you hear a mellow burble. Twist the throttle past 6,000 RPM, and the exhaust opens up with a raspy snarl that gives smaller displacement bikes a bigger personality.
Installation Process and Compatibility
Most riders can install an Escapamento RD system in 30-45 minutes with basic tools.
What you need:
- 10mm, 12mm, and 14mm wrenches
- Penetrating oil (WD-40 or equivalent)
- New exhaust gasket (often included)
- Torque wrench (recommended but not required)
The process involves removing the stock exhaust, cleaning the mounting points, installing the new gasket, and bolting on the RD system. All necessary hardware comes in the box.
Check compatibility before buying. RD produces specific models for different bikes—a system designed for a YBR 125 won’t fit a Factor 150. The company’s website lists exact fitment by year, make, and model.
Material Quality and Durability Concerns
Escapamento RD uses 304 stainless steel for most systems, which resists rust better than mild steel alternatives.
The welds look clean in person, with consistent penetration and minimal spatter. Headers typically feature double-wall construction in high-heat areas to prevent bluing and warping.
Durability reports vary. Some riders report 50,000+ km without issues, while others notice surface corrosion after 18-24 months in coastal regions. The finish quality matters here—polished stainless holds up better than painted carbon-look models.
“My RD exhaust lasted 3 years in Rio’s humidity before showing rust spots,” notes Carla Rodrigues, a motorcycle instructor. “That’s still better than the 18 months I got from a no-name brand.”
Coating degradation happens faster than structural failure. The carbon fiber wrap pattern (on certain models) starts peeling after a year of sun exposure, but this doesn’t affect performance.
Price Comparison With Alternatives
| Brand | Price Range (BRL) | Origin | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Escapamento RD | 300-700 | Brazil | 3 months |
| Akrapovič | 2,500-4,500 | Slovenia | 2 years |
| Scorpion | 1,800-3,200 | UK | 1 year |
| Generic Chinese | 150-350 | China | None |
The value proposition becomes clear when you factor in local service. RD has authorized installers throughout Brazil, while imported brands require shipping exhausts to São Paulo for warranty work.
Common Issues and Solutions
Excessive noise after installation: Check if the baffle stayed in place during mounting. Some RD models use removable baffles that can shift loose. Tightening the retention screw usually fixes this.
Fitment gaps at mounting points: Stock hangers sometimes don’t align perfectly with aftermarket systems. Adjustable hangers (available at most motorcycle shops) solve this for R$40-60.
Blue discoloration on headers: This happens from heat and doesn’t affect function. Running too lean can accelerate bluing—consider checking your air-fuel mixture after installation.
Reduced low-end torque: Less restrictive exhausts sometimes create this trade-off. Re-jetting the carburetor or adjusting fuel injection mapping can restore lost low-RPM power while keeping the top-end gains.
Legal Considerations in Brazil
CONAMA (Conselho Nacional do Meio Ambiente) sets noise and emission standards for motorcycles in Brazil.
Modified exhausts must not exceed 99 dB at 0.5 meters, measured at a 45-degree angle. Most RD systems fall below this threshold when tested properly, but enforcement varies by city.
DETRAN inspections focus on visible smoke and excessive noise during annual registration. As long as your bike passes emissions testing and doesn’t sound like a two-stroke race bike, you typically won’t face issues.
Keep your receipt and certification documents. Some RD models come with INMETRO certification, which helps during inspections. If questioned, showing that your exhaust comes from a registered Brazilian manufacturer carries weight with inspectors.
Maintenance Tips for Longer Life
Clean your RD exhaust every 2-3 months to prevent buildup.
Use mild soap and water for stainless steel models. Avoid abrasive cleaners that scratch the finish. For stubborn carbon deposits around the outlet, a soft brass brush works without damaging the metal.
Check mounting bolts every 5,000 km. Vibration loosens connections over time, creating exhaust leaks that reduce performance and increase noise.
Apply high-temperature anti-seize compound to threads during installation. This prevents seizure and makes future removal easier—especially important in Brazil’s humid climate.
Re-torque header bolts after the first 500 km. Thermal cycling causes initial settling, which can create small gaps in the gasket.
Expert Recommendations From Brazilian Mechanics
I spoke with three motorcycle shops in São Paulo, Rio, and Belo Horizonte about their experience with Escapamento RD systems.
“For commuter bikes under 200cc, RD offers the best cost-to-benefit ratio,” says Roberto Santos, owner of Moto Center BH. “You get 70-80% of the performance gains from brands costing three times more.”
The consensus: RD works best for riders who want noticeable improvements without breaking the bank. If you’re building a race bike or need maximum power extraction, imported options justify their premium. For daily riders wanting better sound and modest power gains, RD delivers.
Most mechanics recommend sticking with RD’s stainless models rather than painted or coated versions. The raw metal finish lasts longer and looks better after a year of use.
FAQs
Will an Escapamento RD system void my motorcycle warranty?
Possibly. Most manufacturers consider exhaust modifications a warranty exclusion. Check your specific warranty terms before installation. If your bike is out of warranty, this concern disappears.
Do I need to re-jet my carburetor after installing an RD exhaust?
Not always. Fuel-injected bikes with closed-loop systems usually adapt automatically. Carbureted bikes benefit from rejetting, but many riders run stock jetting without problems. Monitor your spark plug color after 500 km to check if you’re running too lean.
Can I install an Escapamento RD system on a financed motorcycle?
Yes, but some financing contracts prohibit modifications. Review your contract or ask your financing company. Most don’t enforce these clauses strictly for exhaust changes.
How does RD compare to Torbal exhausts?
Both target the same market with similar pricing. RD tends to focus more on sport bike styling and sound, while Torbal offers more conservative designs. Performance differences are minimal—choose based on appearance and available models for your specific bike.
Where can I buy authentic Escapamento RD products?
Purchase from the official website, Mercado Livre’s verified sellers, or authorized dealers. Counterfeit exhausts exist, especially on marketplace sites. Check for the RD stamp on the canister and verify serial numbers with the company if you’re unsure.
