Is a K&N High flow filter much of an upgrade. I looked at the Ness Big sucker and was going to go with that style. Biggest hold up for me is no cover. Hate the idea of needing a rain coat for my filter so I don't launch the motor. Thanks.
Ozzy

 

Yes, IMO K&N is a big improvement, besides the fact that they can be cleaned and reused over and over for many years with proper care. Myself, I wouldn't waste a single or a million dimes on any overpriced Ness products. As always, JMO.

 

2009/2013 uses stock cover on the Ness big sucker. FYI Just ordered one.

 

From what I have read on here, unless your motor has had head work or something like that, a k&n filter in the stock housing will flow more air than a stock motor can handle. So unless you want to change to an aftermarket air intake for looks, just put a k&n filter in the stock housing and call it a day.

 

You dont need a rain cover. I have an open AC, been through dozens of biblical downpours, several trips of all day riding in the rain. Never had a problem. Dont over think it. Especially if you keep it properly oiled, the water just beads off. Plus, behind a fairing and lowers, if youre moving surprisingly little water actually hits it.

But I've had zero problems despite a lot of riding in the rain, I wouldnt worry about it.

 

I went with the A/N Big Sucker with their "Million Mile Filter"(That looks like a K/N filter to me) and I am well pleased. The intake is far superior to the stock HD, and the price is not bad if you shop around. Mine came from Eastern Performance.
Stock cover over it seals the whole deal. No problems.

 

I, too, run the Ness Big Sucker with the stock air cover. No problems. I like the the stock air cover, so I was glad it fit with the Big Sucker.

 

Ozzy, it depends what year you have- so?

2014+ get a K&N if you like- performance will be good- flow about 185 CFM

2013 earlier get a BS, the chrome backing plate version. easy install, reuses stock cover and has a washable reusable filter media.
about $120 on ebay from easternpc *
for this model the potential flow will increase from about 160 to 250 CFM- 250 is more than your motor will ever demand

and as below don;t fear no water- unless you pour in more than it can burn...which you'd need a hose for

Mike

* and i always add that for the vendors who pimp here, competition helps keep the prices down

 

Kuryakyn has the Street Sleeper filter that works with the stock cover as well. You can install an Alley Cat housing later if you want the open look (that's what I did).

Here's the thing regarding a rain sock. Back in the day they actually had a thing called water injection. That's right, they would inject water right into the intake air. It cools the charge and actually helps to keep the top end a bit cleaner. If you ride through rain, you will get some droplets get through, but you would have to be under water to inhale enough water to ever hydrolock the engine and do any damage. If you are ever riding through the rain and are getting enough moisture in the engine to actually damage anything, please document it. You would be the first!

After riding in the rain you may need to re-oil the filter, or just give it a wash / oiling, keeps things clean that way. It's seriously not a big job and can wait until your trip is over and you get home.

 

OZZY---What mkguitar said correct, Mike is usually right 99.9% of the time.

2014 and newer Rushmores can use K&N air filter part #HD-1614 for about $60.oo.
1999-to-2013 Harley's use K&N air filter part #HD-1508 for about $70.oo.

John