Just a note of thanks to everyone for the help. I changed out the plugs yesterday and all went well. AND I was able to index the plugs by just starting the plugs in the heads by trial and error. SO guess I'll see if the new combo of new plugs and index makes me feel a difference.

I marked the old plugs before I removed them and found one throwing the spark OK as it was between the 2 head bolts but the other one had it facing outwards - not even close. SO now both are pert near perfect facing inwards. As a note the OEM plugs were not that bad...worn evenly and show no signs of trouble.

The K&N filter has been cleaned and oiled last night...and I just need to reinstall it today after work and take the bike out for a rip.

Makes you feel good to do the work yourself...at this point I've got great reference miles for all the service done. Ready for summer now and enjoyable riding.

Thanks again for everyone's suggestions!

 

OK, so had the bike out today - first time since the work done on it. AND I can feel a difference. Not sure if the new plugs...or cleaned/treated K&N filter...and or the plug indexing is the cause...but the bike pulls better on the hills in PA. I found myself in a higher gear on the same roads while riding today. Seems stronger from 1500 to 2500 rpms for certain.

Guess some could be in my head...but makes me wonder if the indexing really works all around and not just for top modified WOT engines.

KEWL!