That's entirely correct. But there is an offset table that uses closed loop values to alter the open loop values. I've read that the offset can be as much as 10%, that equals 1.4 to 1 AFR. So if you're tooling along and crack the throttle wide open, the ECM reverts to map, but also adjusts that map based on the closed loop values.

I don't know any of this as confirmed fact, since I didn't design the Delphi ECM used in V-Rods. It all comes from a couple years of reading everything I've been able to find about the system, and from a couple of fellows who did work on the Delphi ECM.
Most of the people you find that say the stock ECM can't adjust enough for pipes and a filter are generally repeating what "everyone knows", or they're trying to sell you a tuner.
The fundamental problem is the bikes are lean from the factory, and to make them ride-able you need to lower the closed loop AFR, and the only way to do that is with a tuner, changing the O2 sensor bias tables, or lowering the O2 sensor output voltage.

 

I don't dispute Hal or Malcolm on anything they say. Both of these guys have more experience with vrods than I do. I'm just saying that you should be ok with a set of slip-on. You could try a higher flow air filter and if the bike runs then all the better. If you are thinking about a higher flow filter then just go with the stage 1, You would get more power and will probably like the bike even more.

 

I have decided to get the TTS mastertune, find a reliable shop to tune it, and I'll check back here. I will have some gap in time between picking my bike up and getting the tuner, not sure how long, but the sooner the better as far as I am concerned. I believe that installing a tuner and getting a professional job done on a stock bike for power and performance can net some additional horses as EPA wouldn't be your primary concern at that point. I will have a baseline run w/V&H slip-ons and air cleaner, then see how much HP can be squeezed out. I wanted a bone stock baseline to compare, but the new V&H will be on my bike when I get it back.

 

Thats the way to go for the most out of your bike. Good luck with it.

 

How in the hell did you guys figure all this **** out. I've got an 08 aw and I dont know **** about it except it runs great and it looks bad ***.

 

Months of reading everything I could find on V-Rod fuel injection. Over at 1130cc.com there is a wealth of information in the EFI section, you just need to dig in and start reading.