I understand that the Savage/s40 backfires normally as it comes right from the factory.  From this Savage website, I know this can be corrected with carburetor modifications.  However, let’s assume that I keep it original.  Does anyone know if this backfiring will eventually cause damage to the engine or the muffler over time?  I own another bike that will backfire when certain mechanical conditions are not correct.  The people on that website (for that particular bike) feel that the backfiring will cause damage to the engine over time (i.e. exhaust valve and muffler).  Does anyone here feel that the S40 backfiring will cause damage to the engine, or muffler, etc.  over time?  One last thought.  I live in California, and I see that the California S40 carburetor may be unique. … maybe even more restrictive and lean.
Open to your thoughts.

Thanks,
Ron G.

+1 to Serow, pops and cracks are characteristic to big singles. The gun shots may or may not cause issues down the road, either with your bike or neighbor  

On the "Demo for buyer" run  I did last week, mine hadnt been started in about 2 months, got her fired up & off the choke after about 30 seconds of it gaggin & tryin to die every time Id twist the gas a little. Finally got it ready to roll, took it up the drive & about 50 feet down the road,raised the idle up, back to the shop, where it sat & idled & accepted quick throttle input & slappin shut, rumbling & grumbling, no BANG,, steady idles,
on shut off it gave a very gentle Plumphh..