1. Can slip-on's be powder coated? If so, any opinions on a chrome header with black mufflers? I'd like to get a little more black on my bike (2013 Fat Bob)
2. I've read so much on this subject that I'm now confused: Do I need a tune with an aftermarket intake (thinking DK Customs) and Slip-ons.

Thanks from a newbie.

 

From another newb...

I don't know about powder coating the mufflers. You might as well buy black ceramic coated ones in the first place. There are lots available, unless you already have some chrome ones in hand that you want to use.

On the tuning side, I think the answer is "it depends". If all you do is put the slip ons on and the rest of the bike is stock, then you should be fine.

If you also change the air intake, or go to a full replacement exhaust system, or both, then you will need to have the ECM recalibrated. You can either take it to the dealer to have them do this, or buy a tuner unit and do it yourself.

 

That's what I done black slip ons with no tune.

 

Rc components slip ons

 

Just to add to this, I have Khrome Werks slip ons on the bike. They sound great and the bike goes well. But in my opinion they are no substitute for a proper performance exhaust system.

Especially here in Europe as the stock exhaust header gives us Adaptive Exhaust System, Adaptive Inlet System and a Catalytic Converter.

Luckily, my PowerVision tuner allows me to turn off the AES and AIS, but the cat is still there.

So I am waiting for my DK Customs Outlaw 636v A/C and my D&D BobCat exhaust to arrive. Once I get those bits on, I will have a properly de-restricted bike.

 

Unsolicited advice warning - Save your money for a full system, and get it in black. You can get VH Short Shots for $400. May as we'll invest in a good tuner, if you have any more mods planned, it'll be worth it in the long run.

To answer your question.... Black and chrome looks cool, and you don't NEED a tune if you just have slip ons.