Difference between 2002 SK2 and 2003 SK3 and a Bolt on Muffl

[davehenricks]

I recently purchased a 2003 SK3 model 1200S.  I could not find a manual for the SK3 so I down loaded a manual for a 2001/2002 SK1/2 1200S. Can anybody tell me if there are many differences between the SK2 and SK3 that I should be aware of concerning the carburation or exhaust?  I want to rejet the carb with a stage 1 type of kit and also look into a bolt on exhaust for a more throaty sound.  I need to have the carbs cleaned so I will go ahead and rejet it at the same time.  Also, any suggestions for a good quality and lower price bolt on exhaust muffler.  It looks like the muffler on the 2003 just bolts onto the rear of the main header and can just be replaced with an after market unit.  Has anybody done that.  I appreciate any help or suggestions for a muffler that is not to noisey unless you get on it and then it can bust loose.  

[PaulVS]

They are identical.

You want a "slip-on" as opposed to 'bolt-on' muffler for your bike.  The slip-on includes a mid-pipe generally which is where a lot of the performance increase can be gained.  Just make sure you get a slip-on made for the 2001-2005 Bandit.

I'm selling one of the best Bandit slip-ons here...

http://forums.banditalley.net/viewtopic.php?t=7730

Other good models include Yoshimura and Holeshot.