Factory air cleaner with cover removed
Of course, the blank canvas cannot be left as such. The new 2014 bikes are great right off the showroom floor, but I just can’t leave it “as-is”. There’s plenty of power for a touring bike, but I noticed right away two things: First, the pipes just aren’t loud enough. While some may complain about the roar of the big twins, I don’t care. Tough. Neighbors: suck it up. I want that thing roaring, or at least making enough noise that the cagers will know if I happen to be stuck next to them, if only for a moment, before I can carve my way through the traffic and be on my way.
Second, the newer bikes have a catalytic converter in them. Yeah, yeah, save the planet….it’s too hot. The newer bikes run pretty damn lean (read: hot) from the factory. Add the cat and it’s enough heat that I’m concerned not only about rider comfort (it really is all about me), but the longevity of the engine. Bottom line is everybody knows they’re too lean, but HD does what it has to do to satisfy the requirements of the EPA and CARB. I know, I know…I’m going to let that one just go by….
So, given these two things, in my mind, a stage one upgrade is essential on the Rushmore bikes for long-term happiness of all parties. Except the EPA, but….tough titty.
Backing plate removed, ready for bolt and spacer install
A stage one upgrade consists of three inter-related items. Air intake, exhaust, and tuning solution. Really, all three need to be done at the same time. Long and involved explanation, but short answer is that you’ll blow up your bike otherwise.
One of the downsides of having a first year model of a new bike is that aftermarket support is limited. However, I have had great experiences with the guys at FuelMoto, and they already have a great air intake out that they claim increases flow my 40%. Sounded good to me, so I ordered up a customized “power package” from them and had it delivered to my house while I was on the road pimp-slapping the Dyna.
FuelMoto A/C installed. Note it reuses the factory bracket. One bolt re-installs the stock cover.
First impressions were good. Solid packaging, and I was immediately impressed by the workmanship of the metal backing plate. It’s a CNC billet piece, as opposed to the stock plastic. The backing plate, along with the spacers on the breather bolts, are a huge contributor to the effectiveness of this intake system; it’s not just a filter upgrade.
Install was a breeze, even for me. Pop the cover off, remove three bolts, breather assembly, and breather bolts. Install spacers, breather bolts, gasket, three backing plate bolts, and then the filter and bracket. Cover back on. Done like dinner. Even accounting for my own ignorance, it took less than an hour. Someone who is competent would probably do it in 20 minutes.
Next step….exhaust…
Ride on!