Best thing to do, if you are going to have the install done instead of DIY, is take it to either a H-D dealer that supports proper tuning of the bikes (High performance) or find a good local Indy shop then buy from the shop that is doing the work.
Take your time and talk to the tech that is going to do the work about tuning options.
This forum is a good source of ideas if you DIY but you need to do the final research yourself then make a decision.

 

I did basically the same upgrade to mine, with the air cleaner too. I tried the stage 1 download and thought it sucked big time. In fact, I found my thottle response time was reduced, as well as overall performance. I went to the dealer and complained about the $295 CND download. I felt ripped off. So I ended up with a SEST (super tuner) and had it dyno'd ($500) and haven't looked back. The bike performs better than ever, with increased HP, and it also seems a bit cooler. Just my 2 cents worth.

Good Luck!

 

i'l add my 2 cents as well. I did stage 1 with hd SE air cleaner (the round one), V&H straight shots, and a fuel pak. I don't anticipate doing anymore than this to my bike. the V&H system works great for me, I got the sound I wanted and a little extra performance. If my intentions were to be serious about speed/power I would have bought a different bike. These things cost $15,000, so as previously said don't cheap out on it. If you are not confident to do the mods yourself, then the dealer is your best bet. Most of all though decide what you want to do then stop when you get there. Horsepower = $$$

 

Both HD master techs at my dealership plus another HD master tech acquaintance that own Harleys do not have on their bikes nor recommend any aftermarket piggyback programmers on any rides. Yes, they have had them in the past and tried them all. They have complete understanding of the systems and have tuned many bikes. They know all about the other variables that are figured into each system. They have people come in all the time that think their bikes are tuned perfect without crackles or pops to find out the slight hesitation is caused by the fuel cut that was included in the tune to get rid of the afterfire pops that the owner thought was detonation. Riders complaining about poor fuel economy find out that 13.2 in closed loop during low load cruising is too rich. After riding many rides stock versus stage 1 done right (correct download without the good looking poor performing full exhaust) there is a great difference. Riding stage 1 versus tuned with same parts there isn't any acceleration difference. Heat - yes since there is a lot of fuel dumped in closed loop tuned applications. HD stage 1 still keeps my warranty in tact and no worry about ad on piggys getting wet and taking a dump. Remap retail is $160 plus 1/2 hr labor while the SERt is $460 plus labor. If going beyond intake and slip ons, I only suggest the SERT. If you are keeping it simple, the download will make you smile. If you really want something fast, get a V-Rod or sport bike. Remember, people don't buy Harleys because they are fast. They buy them as show pieces and riding enjoyment. I thinking about getting a 2nd bike as the fast one and keeping the Harley for cruising.

 

I have to disagree a little bit in this section of your post, based on our small group's experience. When a street bike tune is done right, fuel is not dumped in closed or open loop for that matter. Just the right amount is provided, sometimes less, sometimes more. Any tech that says that is out of touch with modern tools and techniques or simply tunes for raw power and I would question his competence (are you sure that didn't say this in reference to add on modules that they don't recommend).

I'm a novice and I've got a DIY tune on a stage 1 equivalent bike without any issues that gets 50 mpg on the highway and has less heat build up than stock or with XiEDs. No surging no flat spots, no hesitation, instantaneous acceleration, great 6th gear roll on power, just the fun of riding a well running machine. Its not about the fastest cruising bike for me, as some others here I have a second bike, a Ducati 916, if I want to ride quick on a fine machine. I just enjoy riding a twin that both looks good and functions well on the street.

If the techs are saying a stage one kit with factory download accelerates the same as a stage 1 tuned, they are drinking HD cool-aid. The throttle response is just not the same for one thing. These techs may have kept up with the factory training, but there are a few other better tuning tool options now. A factory down load is better than nothing however. And I had my bike tuned both stock and after stage 1 stuff was added and you could argue there is no noticeable difference in power until you reach 4500 rpm. (I installed the stage 1 equivalent stuff for style, not so much performance)

Those of you that don't want to tinker but also want a fine running machine are faced with some expensive options, but those of you that can run a laptop, can DIY tune. For about $400 in tools and a couple hours of riding you have a bike that runs better on the street than many pro shops, add on modules, or auto tune kits (remember they auto tune AFR not timing). And if you want to get into the EFI more, well there is timing and other nuances to experiment with.

I guess that was 5 cents worth, but even 2 cent opinions cost 5 cents when talking about a harley

Oh that warrantee thing is a classic HD dealer scare tactic to vacuum as much cash from your pockets as they can get away with. A lot of guys here wouldn't trust a dealer to work on their bike even if it was a warrantee fix... they do have to prove that what you did caused the failure.

 

So I am having a Stage I AC installed with new V&H Big Shots on my 2010 FXDB tomorrow. After reading this thread, I am confused about what should I be asking the tech when I drop her off?

 

minimum you need a down load. anything extra is just that extra.....

 

Not trying to hijack, but let me get this straight: TTS needs a laptop? All I got is a Mac desktop.
Do the other EFI products need a laptop (like Power Commander, etc)?

Sorry if I'm not using correct terminology. I'm a couple of months away from buying an EFI Dyna, and I'm still trying to get a handle on the EFI thing.

 

Well after all the good info here, I am taking the bike in tomorrow for a SE Stage 1 AC and remap. I will report on the results here. Already have the Rush 2.0 slip ons.

 

From: Dynojet

What is the difference between the HD Stage 1 EFI modulator 'flash' and an after market EFI programmable modulator?



The Stage 1 reflash from Harley raises your rev limit 500rpm and up to 2004 also altered the fuel curve slightly over the stock ECM. From 2005 and up all it does it raise your rev limit. This is a one time download that is not able to be altered in any way.

G:
See? I don't make this stuff up. Now, it's entirely possible that Dynojet is being a bit parochial about all this since they're trying to sell Power Commanders but, I dunno.