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Last week I bought a new 2021 FLHR. It's my second FLHR. I had a 2013 that I traded for a 2020 Softail Slim. After getting a stage 2 on the FLSL and several other tweaks I couldn't get over the feeling that I was riding a Dyna again. Been there done that so I found a deal for another Road King and jumped on it. Much happier.
My question is about getting Stage 1 and probably 2 for the new FLHR. I had a stage 1 on my 2013 FLHR and liked it, but the M8s seems different and I'm not sure that I'd get the same improvement. I bought a set of V&H Torquer 450's because they seemed like a good slip-on, but they are still in the box. I'd like some opinions on three options I'm considering:
1. Just put the slip-ons on
2. Stage 1 with SE tuner and SE air cleaner with the slides-ons
3. Stage 1 and 2 (torque kit).
I'm not looking for a high-performance machine. I'm fine riding smooth and easy at highway speeds.
So, is it worth pulling the trigger in the first 60 days?
When I purchased my 19 off the showroom floor, they had already done the SE air cleaner, Rinehart slip-ons, SE tuner and a dyno tune. It’s the 114 engine and I’m happy with it as is.
The dealer told me if you just add the slip-on pipes, you do not have to do a tuner, however, if you add a high flow air filter, you have to add the tuner. Makes sense to do both and add the tuner and Harley stated it would add 6 to 8 HP. It you added a stage 2 torque cam. you would get mid-range power of around 10 more HP and Harley would use the same tuner. I've read the SE Pro Street Tuner is preferred, according to Harley. I was thinking of adding those to my 2018 Ultra Classic 107ci with 41,000 mls but decided to buy a new 2020 Ultra Limited 114ci instead. I do like the extra HP and torque it generates.
IMO, you do stage one for the looks and sound. Very little noticeable performance gain. Stage two is where that starts. I know the dyno says otherwise, but from a seat of the pants, Ive never seen the cost/benefit of stage one. It just paves the way for more performance when you add stage two.
And I wouldnt add any of it from Harley. If they knew about performance, these stages wouldnt be required. Power Vision, Woods Cams, Fuel Moto customer service and boogie on down the road.
Last edited by FNGonaRK; Aug 23, 2021 at 07:10 PM.
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