Sorry for the newbie question but what exactly is a stage one upgrade? I've seen this referenced on some threads but they all seem a bit different. Is it a general term for slip ons, air filter change and ECU remap? What is a sert and had do you use it?

Jim

 

Stage 1 is as you guessed, a A/F and exhaust change to take in more air and let more air out. That usually causes a more lean condition that calls for some type of enrichment for Air Fuel mix. This is where it gets confusing. Some people and Dealers will tell you that as long as you don't do cam upgrades or wide open exhaust, you don't need a tuner. The SERT stands for Screamin eagle Race Tuner. I did a lot of research on the subject when I did Stage 1 on several bikes. I used to get the Dealer download. That raises your rev limiter to 6200 RPM's. They also say it enrichens your fuel, but I don't know. The bikes I have now. Wifes 2010 SG Trike and my 2010 Road King. I did the Stage 1 with Jackpot Mufflers and Arlen Ness Big Sucker Air filter and chose not use a tuner. I went with Niteriders FL-XIED's. Both Bikes are running great. my wife has 5500 miles on hers and I have 2500 on my new RK. I feel I went the best route for my riding style. I don't plan to do anymore to the engines. JMO