I have read many threads, learned a lot, and finally did some engine work on my 107 M8.

Waited 2 years until warranty was expired. 11,700 miles on 2017 SGS. For what it is worth, rarely rode this bike hard for those 2 years, just poked around with the wife or listening to tunes. Even when getting on it shifted early at 4,500 rpm or so. I have quicker and faster bikes that satisfied my need for speed.

Other than cosmetic items, the only prior modification was the installation of V & H Eliminator 400 slip-ons at 5,000 miles. They sounded better but no increase in performance, perhaps worse if anything. No history of sumping or transmission transfer. Bike used about a quart of oil between oil changes at 5,000 mile intervals.

Checked crank runout before the recent work. It was .003. I was not going to upgrade if the engine was sloppy. Runout measurement confirmed my perception I got a good motor from HD. The old cam and lifters looked good so another positive sign.

Just installed Fullsac touring stainless steel headpipe, Zippers RS 468 cam, Fueling oil pump and cam plate, adjustable push rods, lifters, Thundermax ECU, and SE air cleaner.

I knew from previous posts that the cam would do a nice job and decided to pay for the Fueling oil pump and cam plate in an attempt to avoid future sumping issues, insurance if you will. My main hesitation were the posts discussing a loss of low end torque when using the V & H Eliminator slip-ons, or similar slip-ons.

Happy to report the bike runs great. It is quicker and faster than expected. Very pleased and recommend this build to anyone wanting a nice lope at idle, better sound, and a significant performance upgrade in all ranges. I can still listen to the stock sound system at 60 mph with bike below 3,000 rpms and now have a nice bark and roar when having fun.

Hope I have gotten lucky with the motor as now shifting higher and riding harder.

 

It's so refreshing when these positive/good news threads pop up.

Congrats on a good bike, engine and build. I'm sure that you'll have continued success and enjoyment.
Steve

 

Thanks for sharing,Those eliminators seem to work well on a 117 RK in the dyno section here with the RS468

 

Sounds great, thanks for sharing!

 

Thanks for the positive review\statements

WE need to see more of these, I for one, am tired of seeing all the non-productive negitivity. I know there are M8s with issues and there forum guy like Steve and others the put a lot work and effort into fixes for those who need it, and they should be congrauduated for picking up the ball where HD dropped it.
I know there are a lot of good M8s out there, i don't if we know what the mix is, but they are out there.
We, I need more positive comments.

 

Just curious Crackerbiker, If you did nothing more than putz on your bike for 2 years, why in the world did you do all the performance work on your bike???.

 

Good question. A 6,000+ mile trip out west on the KTM in May caused a bad case of tendinitis in my elbow due to angle of the bars and long hours in the saddle. Getting old I guess. Decided to put 12 inch KST bars on the SGS to get a level arm position and try it on the next long trip. I must have adequate power to pass quickly on two-lane roads, especially in the mountains, and enjoy tearing up twistees. The SGS will never have the power and agility of the KTM, but I am modifying suspension and adding power in an attempt to make the bike adequate for the trip and my style of riding. Besides, I am a performance guy and was bored with the bike. More fun now!