I just changed my air filter from OEM to K&N HD1508 on my 09 RKC, I got the V&H oval slip-ons on this bike.
I just called up K&N tech, telling me that I dont need to remap since this is only air filter, will this damage my engine or will it ran bad ??
Thanks & have a safe ride.

 

Nope, I did the same with my new flhtp, she breath better now......

 

For insurance purposes, (personal), I'd have the air/fuel ratio checked. Basically, the bikes are set pretty thin coming from the factory. Your K&N has added more air, thus making the mixture even thinner, (in theory anyway). Too lean on the mixture and your expense could be piston replacement as opposed to A/F mixture test.

 

Your probably running leaner than you would be with a good tune. Read your plugs in 500 miles.

If your going to put 20,000 miles over the life of the bike it's no big deal. If your going to put 50k or more over the life of that bike you probably should consider a fuel management system and a good tune. You would also benefit from the f.m. System in terms of more horsepower which is untapped right now. Just food for thought.

 

disagree.
If you are using the stock air cleaner housing- it in itself is restrictive. The hiflow kits many of us use do 2 thing to enhance airflow- 1.) they loose the surround on the sides of the airbox, so that the filter is exposed to the air 360º 2.) the incorporate an airhorn to order the air entering the intake- less turbulent air can move faster and higher volume into the intake tract.

Unlikely you would need to have anything adjusted.

If you hear pinging, then you will need to do something- my 09 pinged a bit from stock, maybe yours does as well--- it sounds like pebbles rattling in a coffee can and more likely under hard acceleration or pulling up a grade.

"reading plugs" requires an experienced eye. Plug compositions and fuel additive packages are not what they were in the 60's--- a plug that would indicate normal operation in 2011 would look "lean" in 1980.
Fuel/ air mixtures are much more precise--- and if the plug did indicate "something"---- which rpm range and conditions can not be discerned by looking at the plug ( and the novice may cross thread or over torque the plug due to inexperience.)


So long story short, with stock air box, you have little to concern you.

If you do need a product, I'd suggest the nightrider.com XIEDS for $125 shipped-
they plug inline with the o2 sensors and "fool" the computer into producing a slightly richer mix under most riding conditions.- without hugely affecting MPG.

- and with them even if you add a hiflow air cleaner ( I like the Ness big sucker for $115)- you'll still be good.

Mike

 

Mkguitar is correct.....I missed the fact that all you did was replace a filter. I assumed you removed the air box when you did this and installed an open breather. My bad...

 

Thanks for all of the info, as it has bothered me for a while and the filter has set on the shelf. It only makes since, replacing the filter is not replacing the housing!


Thanks Again,