Exhaust Pipes perforated from rust

[ColtMax]

My 1997 vmax is 82 000 miles, still runs fantastic. My stock exhaust has lost its round plates in the back so it is quite louder than it used to be and that's ok. But lately I notices that sound has been changing.
I discovered that the front pipe have developed holes just before the interconnection. See red spots.

I would like to know what are my options. I love the look of the stock exhaust system and would hate to change that. Also , if I could maintain the black aspect of my 1997 that would be a huge plus.
Than you for your help

 

[ColtMax]

Just realised I posted this in the 2nd gen section.
Can a mod or admin move this to 1st gen please?

Thank you.

 

[MaxMidnight]

The cheapest option I can think of would be to cut up a tin can to get some thin steel.
Apply a thin application of exhaust sealer and retain with jubilee clips.
Paint black with some VHT paint.

 

[ColtMax]

The cheapest option I can think of would be to cut up a tin can to get some thin steel.
Apply a thin application of exhaust sealer and retain with jubilee clips.
Paint black with some VHT paint.

Thank you. That's exactly what I did as a temporary measure.

I started by cutting the retaining bracket from the little shield and bent it away for clearance. Then I brushed the affected area and applied a layer of exhaust tape. I used some spring steel sheet I had under hand and secured it around with steel wire. Some more exhaust tape over and finally, a stainless C clamp to squeeze the shield and the repair all together.

And as a long term solution, I found a set of headers from a 2005 on eBay. They look much better than mine.