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Stage 1 worthwhile on High-output models?

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Old Sep 11, 2014 | 06:19 AM
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Default Stage 1 worthwhile on High-output models?

Hi Guys

I have a 2014 Road King 103 with the high-output engine, I have replaced the stock slip on's with Screaming Eagle Street Cannons.

The bike really goes and sounds excellent, but I am wondering if there is any power gains to be made by doing a stage 1.

Is there any benefit to replace the stock air filter with a K&N filter?

I am under the impression that the stock air filter on the high-output models are already high flow air filters, thus no gain in air flow by fitting a K&N.

Comments and advice please
 
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Old Sep 11, 2014 | 06:43 AM
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I believe it is absolutely worth it.

When you do a true stage 1, you are not just getting slip ons and a filter.

A true stage 1, you're also getting a tune. There are as many opinions as there are members here, but MY humble recommendation is to go with a flash tuner.

My setup is SE AC with a K&N element, RUSH True Duals, Big Louie 4" cans with 2.5" baffles, and a PV2.

There is definitely a difference from stock. To quantify that, I have not had it on a dyno.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 03:04 AM
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Originally Posted by SafetyMan
I believe it is absolutely worth it.

When you do a true stage 1, you are not just getting slip ons and a filter.

A true stage 1, you're also getting a tune. There are as many opinions as there are members here, but MY humble recommendation is to go with a flash tuner.

My setup is SE AC with a K&N element, RUSH True Duals, Big Louie 4" cans with 2.5" baffles, and a PV2.

There is definitely a difference from stock. To quantify that, I have not had it on a dyno.
I am with you regarding the tuner, I had a PV2 on my Night Rod, but I am still uncertain if the K&N air filter allows more airflow vs stock air filter.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 06:31 AM
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You'll probably add a little bit of low end torque with a low restriction air cleaner & a tune. How much I don't know, but that is pretty much what HD tells you.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 06:36 AM
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I was shocked at the change the stage one kit made. The header made the biggest change. Getting rid of the cat not only made the bike run smoother, but MUCH cooler on the right leg.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 06:40 AM
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I gained around 11 ft/lbs tq and 10 hp across the rev range with a 2-1 supermeg and big sucker. Tuned with Powervision.
I'll finalize the tune soon and post results. Probably get a little more.
Dropped about 15-20 degrees on engine temps also.
Very noticeable!
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 07:28 AM
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Ben- I started with the street cannons and sound was good, slight seat of the pants better pull and great mileage. More than enough power and sound for me. Perfect, but I had decel pop, idle shake (normal but annoying) and a slight surge in the low throttle settings around town. Annoying enough to move to HD stage one air filter and dealer download. Improved but not eliminated.


For a new bike I didn't think (especially the surging) that was ok - So I went with a V&H FP3 tuner. I am sure any of the tuners would be an equivalent for results, but I wanted it to keep it simple but effective. After a couple of auto tuning runs, Pop is gone along with the surge. Idle shake is substantially reduced. AND mileage did not change. 43 -44 around town and 49 to 51 over the road.


As for power, I am sure the numbers did not go down / up ? probably - but for me they were fine pure stock. Drivability and comfort -- much more better with these changes.


Pass with care! -- Tom
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 09:22 AM
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Originally Posted by SafetyMan
I believe it is absolutely worth it.

When you do a true stage 1, you are not just getting slip ons and a filter.

A true stage 1, you're also getting a tune. There are as many opinions as there are members here, but MY humble recommendation is to go with a flash tuner.

My setup is SE AC with a K&N element, RUSH True Duals, Big Louie 4" cans with 2.5" baffles, and a PV2.

There is definitely a difference from stock. To quantify that, I have not had it on a dyno.
This is a great post as I am mired in finalizing what I would like to do based on the amount of options

Based on what SafetyMan stated I think I will go that route but have a question

My plan is to get the following

- Jackpot 2-1-2 SS Headpipe
- Rineheart 4" slip ons
- PV 2

The question is on the intake side, I really like the stock air cleaner cover and was wondering if the stock intake has enough flow, if not was looking at the SE Heavy Breather
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 09:26 AM
  #9  
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Really like the stage 1 upgrade. The rineharts are high quality and look good, the high flow filter works well but I should have gotten the black or Crome backing plate (painted mine black), V&H will advise you what map and you can auto tune if you want but there map is great. See the pic of the invoice, good pricing, there on eBay, I called them and he made me a sweet deal. You won't be disappointed with the performance or milage.
 
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Old Sep 12, 2014 | 09:30 AM
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Originally Posted by RK_2014
The question is on the intake side, I really like the stock air cleaner cover and was wondering if the stock intake has enough flow, if not was looking at the SE Heavy Breather
I kept the stock cover and have the A/N big sucker on. It is an option.
 
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