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...just another new guy with a technical question.
I've got a 2007 Softail with a stage 1 kit. It has Rush mufflers with 2" baffles and a K&N filter. I've read through the forum and did quite a bit of research on whether I need a tune (some enrichment) or not. I've read yes and I've no. I've called the local Harley shop and they said the can flash the module for $85.
The bike has no popping on decel, makes good power and no bad symptoms that I can detect.
My bike set up sort of like yours. I thought it ran good and it did but then I decided to go with a power vision and man what a difference!. But as others had told me if you're happy with it then ride it.
My answer is Yes. Even a new stock Harley can benefit from a proper tune. Harley tunes their bikes slightly lean staying on the good side of the EPA and insuring that owners will pass any state smog inspections. You may currently not be experiencing any performance problems with your bike but it will perform better with a proper tune. The $85.00 dollar dealer tune would seem the easiest and most inexpensive way to go but but it won't unleash your bikes full potential.
I'm not looking for more power though. Even with MAJOR mods it'll still be slower than both my 4 wheel toys, by a bunch. I did the stage 1 to get a better sound, not so much power. Having said that, who couldn't use more HP?
As I read the first post. My question was how do you know that the ECM has not been flashed when the stage one was done.. Then I read your next post that says YOU did the pipes and air cleaner!!,, The funny part is you say you have no decal popping????
If you are going to keep this bike and maybe do the cams then I would go with a power vision....
I have a new 2014 Heritage and I'm a "new" rider after 40+ years. I put Rush slip-ons with 2" baffles and had some backfire. Called Rush and they said (a) get a high flow air filter, and (b) need to tune. Called dealer and they agreed. I then got the V&H FuelPak 3 and did the tune that way (and added a V&H air filter). Pretty slick product, not cheap but search and you can find some decent deals, and it has some pretty cool benefits in addition to the tune.
Tanks for all the replies. I did a bit more research on the forum. No matter what I do I'm not going to turn a stage 1 into a rocket. My main goals is just to ensure it's running correctly, A/F good, heat down, plugs burning light tan an no decel popping.
I read though 57 pages on Superchips' recent bike addition. While there were some problems the overall consensus was that it was a good stage 1 performance addition. It's a canned flash tune and I like that there's no 'piggy-back' add-ons. The real good thing that they're offering at a 50% off ($149.99) on a forum intro special. They're offering it on a 30 day money back if for whatever reason you're not satisfied with it. All that led me to ordering it. I really can't lose. Well... maybe some time and shipping costs.
I just didn't want to tie up another $400+ since the bike will never see more than stage 1. I will report back after I do the reflash and get some ride time. Again, thanks for everyone's help and suggestions.
Your setup is very popular and many people ride like that with no tuning. If there is no decel popping it's most likely running good. Some people will require it due to location and every bike is unique. If you will not be doing any other engine mods the basic tuners work great. After tuning there should be a power increase you can feel in the seat.
I've met the Superchips guys and those systems are great!
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