Fitment Guide: Triumph Rocket 3 Slip-Ons

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Socket set (metric)

  • Allen / hex keys (metric)

  • Torque wrench (recommended)

  • Ratchet extensions

  • Soft cloth or masking tape (to protect finishes)

  • Thread locker (medium strength, optional)

Product: Hitchcox Motorcycles Triumph Rocket 3 Slip-Ons

Fits: All Triumph Rocket 3 models from 2020 onwards, including later models with post-cat sensor
Skill level: Beginner / home mechanic
Estimated time: 45–90 minutes

Overview

These Hitchcox Motorcycles Rocket 3 slip-ons are designed as a Ready-To-Ride upgrade. They bolt directly onto the stock headers, reuse the original mounting points, and do not require an ECU remap. Installation is straightforward with basic hand tools.

The dual slip-ons are mounted on the same side of the bike and are engineered to maintain correct exhaust flow while enhancing sound and appearance. Removable DB-killers are included.

Important Notes Before You Start

  • ✅ Reuse the original (stock) exhaust gaskets when fitting the new slip-ons. Do not discard them unless damaged.

  • ✅ No engine management light issues.

  • ✅ No remap required – only Triumph’s recommended 15-minute idle auto-tune (see below).

  • ❌ Pannier bags are not compatible with these slip-ons.

  • 🔥 Exhaust components get extremely hot – work only on a completely cold bike.

Preparation

  1. Put your phone away and make a brew. 

  2. Park the bike on level ground and place it securely on the side stand or paddock stand.

  3. Allow the exhaust to cool fully before starting.

  4. Lay out the new slip-ons and confirm all supplied hardware is present.

  5. Protect painted or polished surfaces with a soft cloth or masking tape.

Removal of the Stock Exhausts

  1. Locate the stock silencers on the right-hand side of the bike.

  2. Loosen (do not fully remove yet) the clamp(s) securing the stock exhausts to the headers.

  3. Remove the rear mounting bolts that attach the silencers to the bike’s original mounting points.

  4. Carefully slide the stock exhausts off the headers.

  5. Inspect the original exhaust gaskets:

    • If in good condition, retain them for reuse.

    • Clean gently if needed – do not damage or deform them.

  1. Installing the Hitchcox Rocket 3 Slip-Ons

Refit the stock gaskets onto the header outlets if they came off during removal.

  1. Slide the new Hitchcox slip-ons onto the stock headers, ensuring they seat fully and evenly.

  2. Align the slip-ons with the bike’s original mounting points.

  3. Install the supplied mounting bolts loosely at first.

  4. Adjust the exhaust position so:

    • Both silencers sit parallel

    • Adequate clearance exists from swingarm, wheel, and bodywork

  5. Tighten the header clamps evenly.

  6. Torque all mounting bolts to Triumph’s recommended specifications.

  7. Apply a small amount of medium thread locker if desired.

DB-Killers (Optional)

  • The slip-ons are supplied with removable DB-killers.

  • Install them if you prefer a quieter, more road-friendly exhaust note.

  • Removal will increase volume and deepen the three-cylinder exhaust tone.

Post-Installation Checks

  1. Wipe down the exhaust with a clean cloth to remove fingerprints (prevents staining).

  2. Start the bike and check for:

    • Exhaust leaks at the joints

    • Secure mounting

    • Clearance during gentle throttle blips

  3. Shut off the engine and allow it to cool. Recheck all fasteners.

Triumph 15-Minute Idle Auto-Tune (Required)

Although no remap is required, Triumph recommends a simple ECU re-learn after exhaust changes.

  1. Follow these steps exactly:

  1. Start the bike without touching the throttle.

  2. Allow it to idle until the cooling fan comes on.

  3. Once the fan is on, let the bike continue to idle for 15 minutes.

  4. After 15 minutes, turn the bike off.

  5. Restart the bike normally – the ECU will have re-learned the new exhaust setup.

Final Notes

  • These slip-ons are fully compatible with all Rocket 3 models from 2020 onwards, including those fitted with post-cat sensors.

  • Designed to deliver a deeper, richer three-cylinder howl while maintaining smooth running.

  • Bolt-on installation using factory mounting points makes this an ideal upgrade for beginner mechanics.

Enjoy the Hitchcox Motorcycles style, sound, and instant transformation of your Triumph Rocket 3.

 

July 15, 2026 — David Robinson
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