Budget Performance, A Guide to New Harley-Davidson Owners

1. Getting Started

One of the most frustrating things to new Harley-Davidson riders is not knowing what they need to make their rides unique to them. We all know we want a great looking and great sounding bike. Every rider realizes, sooner or later that the cost of a motorcycle, in general, is deceptively expensive. After the initial investment in the motorcycle, gear, and training there are the modifications that make your ride your own. Performance is usually one of the first things to get an upgrade and for the budget-conscious rider, this can be frustrating because of the vast amount of information out there and the fact that many times you have to figure it out on your own. Now, when it comes to performance, "on a budget" doesn't always equal cheap and it's a good idea to make sure that any upgrades be done correctly so as to not to damage your motorcycle costing more money in the long run. 

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2. Let It Breathe

Aesthetics have no bearing on performance and those new grips, new seat, or better footpegs can add up to a lot of money. The best way to maximize your motorcycle's potential is also the most common transformation that Harley-Davidson motorcycles go through soon after purchase. A new air filter, exhaust, and a fuel management system are not cheap but these are possibly the most important modifications you can make if you are after an improved performance. You can opt for more economic options on an exhaust and air filter but you really should not skimp on the fuel management system, especially on newer model motorcycles. The most important thing to know is that if you change one, you change all three. This means that if you change your stock for slip-on exhaust you change your air filter, this changes your air-to-fuel ration as it mixes for combustion so the settings on your motorcycle have to change (this is where the fuel management system comes in). This is one of those infinite topics where there are lots of conflicting information and heated debates but this is absolutely something just about anyone can do in a garage with standard tools even if you are a novice. Do it correctly (meaning all three) and protect your investment. An online search over a few hours and you can get a combination of slip-on exhaust, air filter, and a "tuner" ranging from $800 to well over $5000 if you do a complete exhaust system. Some online motorcycle shops have performance bundles but sometimes, if you call manufacturers like Sampson, Vance, and Hines, and Cobra you can find excellent deals. 

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3. Don't Get Swept Away With The Hype

It happens time and time again with newbies feeling this. New riders get swept away with the hype and feel somewhat pressured into a specific exhaust system (usually more expensive), a new or fancy air intake etc. The reality is that most of us will not be taking our motorcycle to the track, much less put it on a Dyno. The satisfying improvement in sound coming from the engine is really what you are after. For those who are truly dedicated to perform a set of slip-on will not do and a full exhaust and professional tuning is the only way to go. There is no reason not to opt for a set of $400 slip-ons instead of a $900 set from the same manufacturer. Most of the time it simply comes to looks so you have to know what is really important to you. 

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4. Sprockets

As a new rider, you should learn to do some basic maintenance in order to save you money. Now that you have your new air filter and your slip-on exhaust all tuned up, what else can you do? Providing that you have a place to work so you don't have to pay labor costs in excess of $100 per hour in some places, change your sprockets. This involves removing the primary chaincase and replacing the sprocket which changes the final drive ratio. Sounds complicated? It's not. There are many videos online, and of course, your motorcycle service manual which you should purchase if you really are going to dedicate some time to learn your bike. Changing the sprocket size is a rider's decision between higher top speed or better acceleration. You can't really have both so this is a rider-style type of choice. If you do this yourself is relatively inexpensive and your local dealer or bike shop can help you choose the right sprocket size. 

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5. Spark Plugs

Changing the spark plugs and spark plug wires is another simple and relatively inexpensive way to improve your motorcycle's performance. Like with most everything on a new bike the spark plugs work but they are usually not the most efficient ones available. Your spark plugs usually don't demand much attention and are usually overlooked when attempting to improve overall motorcycle performance. 

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6. Take It Slow

Improving aesthetics or performance can be a matter of personal preference, riding style, or necessity if you habitually race your motorcycle. In either case, budget often determines just how you do this and how fast. Don't feel rushed into compromising what you want for what you can get. Many times the wait is well worth it, especially if this is your first time customizing a motorcycle. It also pays to talk to as many riders as you can who share your interests in performance and brand to see what works for people. You will be surprised to learn how many riders wish they had "done it" differently. 

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For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section right here in the forum.