Over the last few years, the Predator 212cc has dominated the small engines market. Go Kart lovers can’t get enough of it. Even owners of mud-motors, drift-trikes, and mini bikes, have all jumped on the Predator bandwagon. If you spot an outdoor piece of performance equipment, chances are, it is using a Predator 212cc engine as its power source.
The one thing we can all agree on is this: These tiny engines are powerful.
Even then, you still crave more speed, and you’re likely racking your brain trying to figure out how to squeeze out more horsepower from your Predator 212cc. The secret lies in the exhaust filter system.
To get more torque, your engine needs to take in more fuel and air for combustion. You then need to maximize the efficiency of the exhaust flow. One way to do this would be to get the best exhaust for Predator 212cc.
We tested some of the best-selling options on the market to bring you our top picks for 2021.
| ARSPORT Exhaust Pipe | Miaowa Exhaust Pipe | LOSTAR Exhaust Pipe | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Best for Beginners | Best for Balance and Mobility | |
Size/weight | 1.8 lbs. | 1.22 lbs. | 1.15 lbs. |
Construction | Steel | Steel | Steel |
Color | Chrome | Chrome | Chrome |
Muffler included | No | No | No |
| View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
How We Tested and Compared These Products
Every exhaust system designed for Predator 212cc engines is pretty standard. We were more interested in performance and durability.
We know that exhausts on Predator engines can get pretty hot. We automatically eliminated any product that had paint on it. This was a clear indication that the manufacturer did not make it for high-performance engines.
Next, we looked at the construction. We wanted something made of heavy-duty uncoated steel. It also needed to have thick wall tubing of 1/8 inches or higher and at least a 1/4 inch thick flange.
Our Pick: ARSPORT Exhaust Pipe – Best Overall
Features:
- Size/weight: 8 lbs.
- Construction: Steel
- Color: Chrome
- Muffler: No
Top on our list is the ARSPORT exhaust pipe. It has a chrome finish that gets a slight tint when hot. The metal tubing is made of heavy-duty steel and comes with two nuts and two lock washer components. The Predator engine and gasket are not included in the purchase.
When we put it to the test, the first thing we noticed was just how loud it was. This was due to the fact that it didn’t come with a silencer. This wasn’t a deal-breaker since it is something we’ve come to expect from exhaust headers made for high-performance engines.
The installation process was quite straightforward. A few nuts and bolts and we were ready to roll. It has a 1/4 inch thick flange, a 46mm diameter from flange hole to flange hole, and a 21.7mm center hollow.
The engine delivered a massive amount of torque with minimal backpressure, increasing our top speeds tremendously. It’s unbelievable the difference installing a new exhaust header makes to the performance of our Go Kart.
The ARSPORT is compatible with Predator Hemi, DuroMax 7 HP, Powerhouse 208cc, Box Stock Project, Honda GX200, and Predator 212cc engines. All in all, we were pretty pleased with its performance.
- Made of durable steel parts
- Compatible with Go Karts, bikes, and generators
- It comes with pre-drilled bolt holes
- Quick and easy installation process
- Minimal back pressure compression
- It can get pretty loud
- MADE IN THE USA...This is custom made, Weighs around 13oz. Good for:...
Best Alternatives
Miaowa Exhaust Pipe – Best Value Option
Features:
- Size/weight: 22 lbs.
- Construction: Steel
- Color: Chrome
- Muffler: No
If you’re in the market for a high-quality, durable steel exhaust for your GoKart or mini bike, you will like what the Miaowa exhaust pipe brings to the table. Unlike the ARSPORT unit, this particular exhaust is center-rear-mounted and has a low profile design.
The kit we got came with one gasket, two screws, and the exhaust pipe. We proceeded to mount the pipe in an optimum position on the Predator 212cc engine. The installation process was quick and easy and took less than 3 minutes from start to finish.
It has a heavy-duty steel construction that feels remarkably sturdy and looks like it would hold up well in racing conditions. Once we installed and tested it, there was a huge improvement in our top speeds. Miaowa exhaust was able to extract more horsepower from the engine.
All in all, for the price, the performance of this unit surpassed our initial expectations. It is definitely worth checking out.
- Made of high-quality, durable steel
- Fast and easy installation process
- Sleek chrome finish
- Excellent value for the money
- This resulted in enhanced torque with no backpressure
- Since it is not a muffler, it does get quite loud
- For 212cc Go Kart
- Package include: 1 x exhaust pipe,2 x screws,1 x gasket
- Easy To Install and Convenient To Use, Brand New High-Quality...
LOSTAR Exhaust Pipe – Best Durable Option
Features:
- Size/weight: 15 lbs.
- Construction: Steel
- Color: Chrome
- Muffler: No
LOSTAR is no stranger to the world of high-performance engine components and accessories. The company prides itself in manufacturing premium quality parts like air filter and muffler components, OEM carbs, Mikuni carb devices, Stock carb parts, and throttle linkage hardware kit packages for Predator 212cc, Honda GX160, and Box Stock Project engines. It is made of heavy-duty steel with a sleek, chrome finish that shimmers in natural light. It was stunning.
It is worth noting that the exhaust gasket is not included in the purchase, so we had to bend the pipe to leave enough clearance for the tire. The installation process was quite easy and only required two screws to bolt it to the engine. Since it is not a muffler, it did get pretty loud. You might want to give your neighbors a heads up if you plan to rev the engine on your driveway.
As far as performance goes, we managed to squeeze some extra torque from the engine. As a result, we got higher top speeds. While the mph difference wasn’t as big as what we saw with the ARSPORT and Miaowa, it was still higher than what we had been clocking previously.
All in all, if quality matters a great deal to you, we recommend getting this header pipe for your Predator 212cc.
- Made of premium-quality steel kart parts
- Exceptionally durable and reliable
- Enhanced speed
- Quick and easy installation
- Backed by a 1-year quality guarantee
- Gasket not included in the purchase
- ✅Premium Quality, Direct Fit, 1-3 Days Delivery
- ✅Compatibility: Fits Predator 212cc Engine. Fits most 196cc OHV...
- ✅Enhance Performance. Easy Installation. High Reliability.
YHB Exhaust Pipe – Best for Engine Compatibility
Features:
- Size/weight: 17 lbs.
- Construction: Steel
- Color: Chrome
- Muffler: No
The YHB exhaust header pipe is no doubt one of the most versatile units we’ve come across. It is compatible with a wide range of engines, including the Predator 212cc Hemi and Non-Hemi, Box Stock Project, and Honda Clone 196cc engines. Other than the ARSPORT, we haven’t come across any other exhaust header that fits quite as many engines as this particular one.
At the point of installation, we noticed that the brace and muffler were not included in the purchase, so we expected it to get quite loud. It did come with two screws which we used to bolt the pipe onto the Predator 212cc. The installation process was quite fast and took less than 3 minutes from start to finish.
Based on the stats we had, the YHB header pipe increased torque and yielded higher top speeds than we had recorded previously. These readings were right up there with those for the ARSPORT and Miaowa. It was faster than the LOSTAR as well.
Overall, we were pleased with the performance of this exhaust pipe. It is definitely worth checking out.
- Sleek, chrome finish
- Compatible with several engine types
- Easy installation process
- Increased torque and top speeds
- Custom made for racing Go Karts and bikes
- Gasket and muffler not included in the purchase
- Exhaust Header Pipe Header:1" pipe with 2 stages to 1-5/16"
- Exhaust Header Pipe is intended for use on racing go karts.It can...
- Fits Predator 212cc Engine, most 196cc OHV Clone engines, Box Stock...
How to Choose the Best Exhaust for Predator 212cc – Buying Guide
When choosing the best exhaust for Predator 212cc, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when making your purchase decision.
Exhaust Headers vs. Intake Manifolds
Exhaust headers and manifolds technically do the same job. The difference between them comes down to the manufacturing process.
Exhaust headers have several individual steel tubes that serve each of the several exhaust ports in the engine. These are all-welded down to a single pipe at a specific section of the tubes. This section of exhaust curves is known as the “collector" since all the exhaust gas consolidates at this point before passing down to a single pipe.
On the other hand, an exhaust manifold consists of a solid structure made of cast iron across all the engine cylinders.
From a performance standpoint, you’re better off getting an exhaust header over a curved intake manifold. It generates more torque and gives your ride better power and economy.
Mufflers
The second thing you need to think about is the muffler. Most of the exhaust headers on the market don’t include silencers in the purchase, and here's why.
Adding a muffler can increase backpressure, which, in turn, has a negative impact on performance. If you’re concerned about the loud noise, consider using a longer, large-diameter pipe. That way, the exhaust gas from the engine has a longer distance to travel, allowing some of that awesome sound to disperse.
Construction
It goes without saying that the exhaust header pipes in Go Karts and other high-performance vehicles are subjected to a lot of abuse, not to mention, they get superhot. This leads to faster wear and tear.
To prevent this, ensure you get an exhaust that's made of heavy-duty steel. That way, it is less prone to breakage, so you don’t have to worry about replacing it any time soon.
Performance
The final thing you need to consider is performance. The whole point of installing an exhaust header on your Predator 212cc engine is to increase torque. This is what translates to higher top speeds when you hit the track.
While there’s no foolproof way of knowing which header will enhance the performance of your engine beforehand, the best thing to do would be to purchase products from reputable manufacturers. ARSPORT, Miaowa, LOSTAR, YHS, and VRSCR Street Rod, are all brands with a proven track record of higher top speeds.
Installation
Last but certainly not least, exhaust pipes for Predator engines should come with screws and a gasket. The installation process will then involve bolting the pipe onto the engine. This should take no more than 3 minutes to do.
FAQ
What’s the horsepower on a Predator 212cc?
The technical specs on the Predator 212cc list the engine horsepower as 6.5 HP. This translates to around 3,600 high rpm. With slight modifications to improve torque and efficiency, you can get 9 HP out of a 212cc engine at the same 3,600 revolutions without a higher rpm. The best way to do this would be to install an exhaust header.
Is a Predator Hemi better than a Non-Hemi?
The short answer is – no, it is not. Some Kart racers consider the Hemi Predator 212cc engine superior to the Non-Hemi, simply because it appears to have a better-looking head. In terms of performance, they’re both at par.
What size exhaust is on a Predator 212cc engine?
The ARSPORT Exhaust Pipe has a 1/4 inch thick header flange with a 46mm diameter from flange hole to flange hole and 21.7mm center hollow. The length is about 19.75 inches. Use this as a guide when shopping for exhaust pipes for your Predator 212cc engine.
Conclusion
There you have it – the best exhaust for Predator 212cc. While any of the options we’ve reviewed in this guide would be an excellent choice, if we had to pick a winner, it would have to be the ARSPORT Exhaust Pipe. It is durable, reliable, and performance-driven, which is what you want when you’re chasing top speeds.
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