Have always run K&N filters bc they are cleanable and slightly increase horse power. Are they as good on bikes? I like my factory air box look.

 

Most guys here run a k&n or a screaming eagle. With a stage 1 upgrade you can still use the stock cover.

 

The screaming eagle heavy breather runs K&N filter, but without any markings. If what I remember is true, they dont hold up as long as the true K&N filters. I have a K&N fipk on my night train. I can't tell you I see any performance out of it, but like you, I have found themto be reliable over the years in all the vehicles I have had. They make just a filter, that you can stick under your stock air cleaner cover and I'm sure it is superior to the factory filter. Here is a pic of mine.

 

I have a K&N on my '83 Sportster and it's been on there since '84. I also have a Screamin' Eagle Heavy Breather on my Fatboy. I don't know if I really noticed any significant increase in power but the reliability, cleanability and performance when wet make K&N worth the price. Paper filters just don't cut it IMO.

 

The SE filter used to be made by K&N,, but its not the lifetime washable that K&N makes..

Found that out on my 07 (did the SE/ac at 1k) when they did the 10k service, the SE backing rubber on the filter went bad and they replaced it for free.

Got a call from the dealer when they found it and asked me if I wanted another SE filter at no cost,, or if I wanted to pay the $18 difference and get the lifetime washable/rechargeable K&N filter.

26k and 4yrs later I still have the Real K&N filter on my bike that I clean every yr.


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I was always worried that an exsposed filter would get wet in the rain. Is there any performance con to going with anything other than a K&N in the stock air box?

 

You can get a rain sock for an exposed filter...just put it on when u pull over to put your rain gear on. I havd a round exposed filter but ive never had issues in light spotty rain. Havent hit a torrential downpour yet.

 

I like the idea of a closed air box. I also like the look of the factory cleaner, so K&N was for me.

 

i'd say probably 90% of most aftermarket intakes run some form of a K&N filter.. i know my Ness Big Sucker I does, so does the Stage II version (just fatter).. I clean and oil mine at the end of the season, and it's good for a whole new year.. never had any problems with water (even after being stuck in heavy down pours, light rains, and basically pointing the hose straight at it while washing my bike)..

 

You can buy a sock to keep the rain & dirt out.