Hooker 2 stroke pipes/expansion chambers

This page is dedicated to information about "Hooker" Motorcycle exhausts, primarily 2 stroke vintage bikes of the early-mid 70's.  Here is what a typical Hooker 2 stroke pipe looks like.  Typical identification is that it will have a "heart" cut into the heat shield.

Hooker pipe for Kawasaki KE100

Hooker pipe for Kawasaki KE100

Hooker exhaust article (Photo credit: Brady Barber)

Hooker exhaust (Photo credit: Brady Barber)

Hooker exhaust ad (Photo credit: Brady Barber)

Vintage Hooker motorcycle exhaust price list from circa 1975.  Features many brands and models of motorcycles from the early-mid 70's (credit: Brady Barber)

Vintage Hooker motorcycle exhaust pricelist (Photo credit: Brady Barber)

Hooker Headers, a well-known name in the performance automotive industry, has an interesting history with motorcycle exhaust systems. The company originally made its mark in the 1960s with high-performance headers for cars, but they expanded into the motorcycle market as well.
Here’s a brief overview of their involvement in motorcycle exhaust history:

Early Beginnings

• 1960s-1970s: Hooker Headers was primarily focused on automotive performance parts, particularly headers and exhaust systems for cars. The company built a reputation for its high-quality products that improved engine performance.

Entry into Motorcycle Exhausts

• 1970s: Hooker Headers began to make a name for itself in the motorcycle community by developing exhaust systems designed to boost performance and improve the sound of motorcycle engines. Their motorcycle exhaust systems were known for their durability and efficiency.

Popular Products

• Sportsbike Exhausts: During the 1980s and 1990s, Hooker introduced exhaust systems for popular sportbike models. These exhausts were designed to offer a balance of increased horsepower and a distinctive exhaust note.
• Cruiser Exhausts: In addition to sportbikes, Hooker also catered to cruiser and touring motorcycles, providing systems that enhanced both performance and aesthetic appeal.

Innovations and Developments

• Technology: Hooker Headers was known for integrating advanced technology into their exhaust designs, such as tuned length headers and performance-oriented muffler designs. They focused on optimizing exhaust flow to enhance engine performance.

​Legacy and Impact

• Reputation: Hooker’s motorcycle exhaust systems were well-regarded for their quality and performance. They contributed to the broader trend of performance upgrades in the motorcycle industry during the late 20th century.
• Current Status: While Hooker Headers continues to be a significant player in the automotive exhaust market, their motorcycle exhaust products have become less prominent in recent years. However, their influence on performance exhaust design remains notable in the industry.

Overall, Hooker Headers’ venture into motorcycle exhaust systems reflects their broader commitment to performance and innovation. Their products helped shape the evolution of motorcycle performance parts during a transformative period in the industry.