Since my post in August regarding my vacation riding in Wyoming, etc. and the issue of less/more aggressive riding, I've increased my shifting rpms as follows (approximately):
1st gear- 0-25 mph
2nd-       25-35
3rd-        35-45
4th-       45-50
5th-       50-0n up (typically I don't go over 60-65)

I don't have the owner's manual handy, but I believe these are all within the acceptable range and probably wimpy compared to some of you veterans.

So, I changed my style at 10,000 miles. During all those miles, my exhaust pipe had a gold discoloration that extended approx. 2" out. In the past 1,000 miles that has changed to a purple/blue discoloration that extends out approx. 6'. Is there a engine issue  here that I should be concerned about?