I have a stage 1 kit on my 2017, and don't find it objectionable at all, except perhaps during "spirited acceleration" when it can get a bit loud. Modulating the throttle seems to keep it in check when needed. Are you more concerned about noise at cruise, or in-town? I don't wear a helmet, and find the BB and wind noise more than balances out the pipes.
You might try fitting some deflectors to direct the exhaust more down and to the outside, but with the flared pipe ends on the Stage 1 pipes, it would be a challenge to fit something on the end.
