Dyno tune and the SEPST
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Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 152
Likes: 0
From: Owensboro
Dyno tune and the SEPST
Ok so I'm a little confused.
If you get the tuner from the dealer what map do they use? I know they have auto tune etc.
I take it most dealers dyno tune with the SEPST. So if one goes the route of a dyno tune there is no need to buy the tuner. Is this correct? They just flash the ECM with the dyno tune.
I guess basically if one wants a dyno tune and plans no new mods is there any reason to buy the tuner?
If you get the tuner from the dealer what map do they use? I know they have auto tune etc.
I take it most dealers dyno tune with the SEPST. So if one goes the route of a dyno tune there is no need to buy the tuner. Is this correct? They just flash the ECM with the dyno tune.
I guess basically if one wants a dyno tune and plans no new mods is there any reason to buy the tuner?
Club Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 2,697
Likes: 10
From: San Angelo, Texas
The tuner is the interface that allows them to adjust the fuel/air mixture and other areas to fine tune your bike, and the tuner only works on YOUR bike.
So, yes, if you want to TUNE the bike, get the tuner and have it dyno'd. If you just want to go with an ECM flash, and the stage 1 flash is still way lean according to...well, EVERYONE including Harley, then you don't need to buy a tuner.
As was just discussed in another thread, there are a lot of tuners out there...but the advantage of the SERT, is if you are on the road and have an issue that requires it, any dealer has canned maps they can download to get you going again, rather they have a dyno or not. Even the canned SERT maps are 90% of where most bikes set up a certain way need to be...
So, yes, if you want to TUNE the bike, get the tuner and have it dyno'd. If you just want to go with an ECM flash, and the stage 1 flash is still way lean according to...well, EVERYONE including Harley, then you don't need to buy a tuner.
As was just discussed in another thread, there are a lot of tuners out there...but the advantage of the SERT, is if you are on the road and have an issue that requires it, any dealer has canned maps they can download to get you going again, rather they have a dyno or not. Even the canned SERT maps are 90% of where most bikes set up a certain way need to be...
Road Warrior
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 1,800
Likes: 307
From: Houston, Texas
The SEPST is nothing more than a software key that allows the tuner software to access the ECM. When it's sync'd up it locks its self so that it can only work with your ECM. This allows the guy operating the dyno to make changes to the tables in the ECM to make your bike run better after modifications.
Literally it's just a way for the MOCO to make more money off of you. Unfortunately they usually can't tune with out it or another piggyback type device.
If you are making minor mods such as pipes and air cleaner, you can have them download a canned stage 1 map but it will still be lean and set to meet EPA standards.
There are many different tuners out there but they only work as well as the guy operating the Dyno. He is the most important factor in getting the most out of a bike. Not the tuner device you use. Ask others for references to find a guy , it will probably be an independent shop, that does the best tuning in your area. It's rarely the dealership.If you are lucky like I am, you can find an independent that has a great reputation for tuning and has the software and can access the ECM without the key (SEPST) or any other device and go straight to the ECM. Other wise I would use whatever the guy recommends as that is going to be what he's the most proficient with.
Literally it's just a way for the MOCO to make more money off of you. Unfortunately they usually can't tune with out it or another piggyback type device.
If you are making minor mods such as pipes and air cleaner, you can have them download a canned stage 1 map but it will still be lean and set to meet EPA standards.
There are many different tuners out there but they only work as well as the guy operating the Dyno. He is the most important factor in getting the most out of a bike. Not the tuner device you use. Ask others for references to find a guy , it will probably be an independent shop, that does the best tuning in your area. It's rarely the dealership.If you are lucky like I am, you can find an independent that has a great reputation for tuning and has the software and can access the ECM without the key (SEPST) or any other device and go straight to the ECM. Other wise I would use whatever the guy recommends as that is going to be what he's the most proficient with.
Club Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 2,697
Likes: 10
From: San Angelo, Texas
Nope. But keep it with you or y'all be buying another one if you're ever away from home and have a problem...
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,007
Likes: 353
From: Ohio
Just a note or so. Dyno tuning requires the use of some expensive equipment and suitable space. So many HD dealers do not do dyno tuning. But if you have the SEPST some will load factory calibrations (maps) and refine the tune by doing test rides using the SEPST "Smart Tune" feature. Either way, the results will depend on the skill of the person doing the tuning. And just because it's the dealership doing the tuning doesn't mean that they will do a lousy job. That's hype. They are no different than anybody else. So do the research first.
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Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 5,477
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From: New Braunfels, Texas
Another option...if you can find a skilled dyno tuner in your area and know you are not doing any more mods:
You can buy a license fee, use the dyno tuners tuner, have your ECM reflashed with your custom tune and be done and dialed in for under 500 bucks
You can buy a license fee, use the dyno tuners tuner, have your ECM reflashed with your custom tune and be done and dialed in for under 500 bucks
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Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 152
Likes: 0
From: Owensboro
I think the local dealer does that. I read where someone had their bike dynoed and all he received was a flash drive with the custom tune. He didn't buy a tuner or anything.