Put a K&N filter on my '08 1200 low about 4,000 miles ago. Took apart to clean it today and it's not very dirty at all. Coupla bug parts in the bottom of the box otherwise in pretty good condition - the filter itself surprisingly clean. Apparently the stock box doesn't allow much air. Any of you guys ever run without the cover, or would it really make any difference?

 

I would the cover on, unless you have a Fuel Management solution. Like a power commander. The stock ECM can adjust for a little more air flow, but a full open filter will probably be too much.

 

frustrating isn't it? I just switched to areln ness/k&n combo and haven't had much throttle time due to weather. Earlier when I took the can off to have a look it was pretty dirty. Stock filter and breather at the time. I had replaced the filter last year, put 8000 miles on it last year and I know I would have to replace the filter again. Aside from the carb farts it ran well. I do notice a big difference already with the upgrade. I wish it came this way. Worth the extra $$$ oh yeah still using stock ham can front. I like the looks.

 

Well with only 4k miles it's not going to get dirty with normal street riding. K&N's do not need to be cleaned all that often. Yes the stock air box dose not let much air in at all. Like was said if you run without the air box cover then you will be gettig too much air-like a Heavy Breather and you will need a tune for that.

 

I use the S/E airfilter with the ham can removed and the bike runs great. I also have the pcv/autotune installed so I can't say how it runs without.