I've got this setup too. Does the filter needed cleaned manually or do we just replace the filter? How often?

 

The limiting factor is the stock air cleaner box only allows air to flow through that little air scoop in the front. Very restricted. More free flowing air cleaners allow air into all areas of the air filter element.

From the casual glance, the Screamin Eagle air clean looks stock. It uses the same ham can cover, but it's totally open on the backside to all of the filter element. Others brands are the same way, but don't use the stock cover.

 

All K&N's need to be cleaned with soap & water, dried then lubed before re-installation. Not a bad job really and a lot cheaper than replacing it.

 

Not to question you opinion sportiypig but I was under the impression that the SE now uses a cheaper foam filter that isn't oiled and I have heard about some screws getting sucked into the intake (although I supose that could happen with anything if you don't use loctite) but the most distressing thing I have read is that it is sucking much hotter air directly off the cooling fins of the front jug, hot air = less power. I'm not sure what to think.