08 RKC w/Thunderheaders - what's next?
 

I just installed ThunderCone slip-ons on my stock '08 Road King Classic. I've spent hours reading these forums on Stage 1 A/C and remapping and to be honest, I'm dizzy from reading all the different opinions on whether one needs to re-tune or not with new exhaust.

I definitely plan to upgrade but I'm looking for ideas for a stage 1 a/c and EFI tuner. I'm just not sure what direction to go. I love the sound of the ThunderCones but I am getting some popping on deceleration which has me concerned that I'm running too lean.

I just got the bike so I don't want to cause any damage to the engine or at least end up with blue exhaust pipes. Like I said, I am going to go with a tuner and stage 1 so I don't want this to start another debate on whether I need to or not.

Am I better off letting my HD dealer handle this for me or should I go with a DIY product?

I value your opinions but I'm new to this EFI stuff so any advice is appreciated. Thanks in advance.

if you are still with the stock air cleaner housing, you are probably ok.

when you want to change the air cleaner, the ness big sucker is the tidiest, easiest install. and a much better unit thaan what H-D is selling at a better price.
costs $115 shipped on ebay from easternpc.

I didn't think much of what my Pals are getting with the "tuners".

i use nightrider.com XIEDS.

I have some automotive training and work on a lot of stuff, and know the signs of a motor persistently running lean- the XIEDS work for me at a bargain price.

a lean running motor may:

"ping"- which is the mixture igniting early and uncontrolled while the piston is still on the compression stroke--- this sounds like pebbles rattling in a coffee can, most often happens when accelerating hard or pulling up a long grade.

sneeze- backfire from the intake ( was common on stock jetted H-D carbs)

run hot

running proper octane is really important.

Mike

Thanks for the link Mike. I see the XIED is a plug and play but I didn't see any instructions on the website. Forgive my ignorance but what does it plug into - the O2 sensors?