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What Defines Tuning Stages?

Old Jul 18, 2013 | 11:51 PM
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Default What Defines Tuning Stages?

Right now i'm rocking an intake and exhaust with a PC3usb. I'd really like to find a good cam set to put in because i really love the sound change they offer, but i'm not sure what to get.

This has led me to wondering what constitutes each stage of tuning, example; Stage 1, 2, and 3?

If i opt for a CAM set, does that start me into stage 2? If so, then by answering the above question for me will allow me to understand how to better tune my bike.

So far i've learned many things on these forums by some very knowledgable induviduals. I'm looking forward to learning about this because i'm a planner, to the extreme. I love plans, and lists, etc. Knowing whats included in each stage will help me in my OCD ventures on my bike. Thanks in advance guys.
 
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Old Jul 19, 2013 | 04:19 AM
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These things aren't clearly defined in any black and white way! A stage 1 can be said to be changing the stock airbox for a simple free-flow air filter and the quiet stock mufflers for noisier free-flow ones. In the good ole days of carbs that would also have included a jet kit to sort out fuelling. These days with EFI there are many views on what to do about that, some of them frankly misguided. Read the sticky in the Tech Electrical section on 'Why EFI Vehicles Need To Be Tuned'.

Does new cams equal stage 2? I'm not sure and I suggest you don't bother about it! The stock cams on Sportys are quite good and will support other engine mods, like a boost in CR and ported heads. Careful choice of exhaust will give improved results, poor choice can reduce it - your Samson pipes are a good choice (I have a 2-into-1 on my Glide).

Developing your bike your options are indeed cams, although I personally would put increased CR and ported heads first, unless you are looking for a serious increase in performance. If you can manage to do your next 'stage' in one go, contact one of the Sporty specialists like Hammer, to get a matching combination of components.
 
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