With my tax return I am getting this year I am planning on spending a little cash on the 2005 RK. I am looking for comments, suggestions, and and advice on my few ideas.
Right now, I am running a mostly stock 88 with PCV, stage 1 AC, V&H true duals with crappy (IMO) Wild pig slip-ons.
The first thing I want to do is put a set of Andrews tw21 cams in while checking/ servicing the tensioners. I think the stock tensioners are ok for my current needs as long as I check them periodically. I'd rather save the additional $500+ needed to upgrade the chest for other things.
Next, I discovered some rust holes in my head pipes. Between that and not really being satisfied with the W.P. slip-ons, I am looking to invest $500-900 in a good set of pipes. I am leaning towards the Bassani Road rage II pipes for around $800 iirc. I love the look and sound of them (youtube lol) and the fact they are 2>1. Plus you don't see them every day. The other option would be V&H Long shots. I know, 2 drastically different systems but always liked the looks and sound of them (I have heard these in person and the ol likes her Harleys loud). They also seem to cost a couple hundred less. My biggest concern with the LS's would be reduction in performance since I am going for lower end TQ (hence the Andrews 21). Almost seems to me like the pipes would negate the additonal TQ increase provided by the cam. Thoughts?
As I said, I currently have a PCV. I am considering buying the Autotune system instead of paying to have it Dynoed. I realize that a good tuner might give better overall results but my riding style varies widely from solo commuting to 2-up touring. I don't fancy the idea of shelling out $400 everytime I upgrade something. For the cost of 1 dyno tune I could have the autotune and be prepared for future mods. I am more than capable of understanding how to utilize the features and software so that is a non issue.
Well that's pretty much it for performance upgrade plans. The ol lady will be getting some of the return and I am planning on surprising her with a shiney new Fox Creek Jacket too!

 

I will address the exhaust and say that given another chance I would go with V&H Big Radius. I think they look bad *** on a bagger. I had 4" Bassani slip ons on my bike at close to $400 then went with the RC Excalibur which look and sound great but hindsight is 20/20. Can't go wrong with a tuner either.

On another note I hate you. For years I averaged $7,500 yearly refund but after kids grew and no house payment plus a couple bad financial oops's I have been paying the IRS monthly payments for years. Enjoy it while you can.

 

I have always seemed to get decent returns but this will be the first with 4 dependants. Usually only get to claim 1 but I had jobless room mates last year (don't ask ) and I get to claim 2 older kids. I am sure in a few years I won't have as much to deduct.

 

You do realize that if your getting a large refund, all that means is you loaned the Feds money interest free for a year. Ya really should adjust your withholding so your not in the business of loaning Uncle Sam money free. Just saying.......

 

I do and it's interest free however I didn't plan on claiming 2 room mates and 2 kids. I would have only gotten a few hundred back if I had filed like I thought.

 

I would rather write a check to the IRS at the end of the year then receive any money back.
I think V&H make great pipes. Sound is nice. Performance is great, and the chrome is exceptional. I really like V&H products. Probably smart getting the autotune becasue you never know when you are done making changes and doing a dyno every time can add up

 

That's cool, money you didn't know you had... nice!

 

Back on topic...
Looking for more feedback on the exhaust. I do like the looks and sounds of the V&H Propipe and similar in cost to the long shots.

 

Anyone local to Kansas City have any of the pipes I am interested in for a in-person sound check??

 

Return?????? I have to pile away more money to pay the robbers.