Unless you have a tuned intake tract (like the VRod) you can get horsepower improvements by lowering the resistance to air-flow on the intake side (works on the exhaust side too). Lots of folks using those A&N low restriction air filters on their motorcycles but you would never want to ride open (no filter). Particulates in the air are abrasive and damage your engine over time.

On the V-Rod the intake tract was designed by Porche Engineering Group -- one of only a few automobile manufactures that know how to create a tuned tract. The tract is sealed tightly and the two throttle bodies have velocity stacks of specific but differing dimensions all designed to time the intake from a high-pressure point at the front forks as the motorcycle moves through the air stream. This times the intake so one pulses pulls in the next and the intake tract becomes slightly pressurized (slightly over ambient). This is good for 6 HP on the Vrod. This can't be measured on a Dynometer because there is no high-pressure zone when the bike is sitting still. Many VRodders believe running "topless" (with the airbox open) provides some additional Horse Power (that REALLY can be measured on the Dyno but is actually a net loss).

 

I agree but I don't know if doing it cover off is the standard method.

Well as far as numbers go before he dyno'd it he had me sign a form releasing him of liability if the motor blew up. I told him not to blow the ***** off this motor and take it easy. I was shocked that the Hp came in only at 98 but the tq was 121... That was before break in and with stock headers.

20 k later I'd like to run her again but never have. I since put V&H headers too. One day this summer I'll have her run again.

 

What's port and polish going to gain me in terms of any lifts?

 

I'd guess proper headwork will get ya 5-10tq and 10-15hp?? More compression and bigger cams would be some more. But ya start to really get into diminishing returns around there.

 

The answer is NO, the bike should be exactly how it will be ridden on the street.

 

Correct. A 2 into 1 exhaust would help a little bit as well.

 

I hear ya. $1500.00 is alot for that.