have just fitted forward foot controls . much better, but now the stock air cleaner keeps pressing my leg.can I get a smaller air cleaner.Bobby Hytche.

 

I felt the same as you when I first got my '99. I have forward controls and the air cleaner housing is right up against my knee. I thought for sure it had to go.

2 years later, I seldom notice that it's there; when I do, I smile to myself and think, "Sportsters sure are unique."

Let's you know you're riding a real machine

 

You kinda want it to be pressing your leg some. If you've ever taken an MSF class they teach ya to pinch the tank with your legs, to keep the knees in. After putting over 7000 miles on my bike I never notice my leg against the air cleaner, except when I squeeze it a bit to make sure my knees are tucked in when going through the twisties.

Most aftermarket aircleaners are going to stick out. You need surface area to allow the bike to breath. If it didn't stick out so much (remember the stock element is only 2 inches thick) it would have a huge radius to get the same about of airflow. If you restrict the airflow you will loose power and the stage one upgrade does the exact opposite.

MH

 

With forward controls don't try and grab the tank with your knees - relax and enjoy the ride.

 

there are several options that will get the air cleaner off your knee. A heavy breather or a Kuryakyn Corsair will get you the most clearance. A round A/C will come in next. NHRS makes one that moves the A/C forward 3" and uses the stock cover. I just put a Corsair on and I have been quite pleased with it.