K&N filters

[Sparkdrummer]

I've got K&N filters on my 99 Fatboy and 73 Duster and think they work great. They allow both engines to breath better (Especially the the Fatboy) and are a snap to service.

What is the opinion of a K&N on an airhead??

-Ralph...

[Justin B.]

People either hate them ( pontificating about inferior filtering) or love them (pontificating about better filtering and improved breathing) so since you have already a "user" we know what camp you fall into.  I use them because in the long run they are cheaper than the stock paper filters and since some manufacturers (Mopar Performance Parts for one) offer them as an accessory for new vehicles and won't void the warranty.  I wouldn't think they would do that if they passed enough dirt to be concerned about as then Chrysler would have to start eating enging replacement bills.

But, if you are contemplating popping one in and getting 10 more HP then you're going to be disappointed.  The stock Boxer engine doesn't need any more breathing ability than the stock air filter provides.

[Jon_P]

i have seen them for the plastic clam shell flat type but not the round can type with the alum. type air cleaner. are the round ones out there? i have one on my daily rider and love it cuz i dont have to mess with getting new ones all the time and would like one for the r65

[Justin B.]

The round ones are available, and actually cheaper than the square ones...

[Sparkdrummer]

Thanks for the replies, guys!

I am not really looking for a horsepower gain (although it helped the Hog, but you gotta have the exhaust to go with it) - But my view is K&N is good filtration when properly serviced. I work at a major Chrysler/Ddoge/Jeep dealership here in Phoenix and almost all my techs sport K&N in their 4 wheeled conveyances.

I just didn't want to install something in my R65 that would harm it.

-Ralph...

[Justin B.]

Some old-timers will tell you it your first step toward requiring an overhaul - do what you feel comfortable with.  I mentioned Chrysler (didn't know you worked there) as Mopar Performance Parts sells the K&N FIPK for the PT Cruiser and no disclaimer that it will void the warranty.  I will say the FIPK DID help the Cruiser performance.

[MrRiden]

K&N oil filters will immediately collapse on installation and their air filters will sneak out at night and grab dirt from your yard and dump it into your Bings. The materials are poor and the filters are assembled by drunken sots in dark alleys where no one wants to go. Well, not really. Purists will tell you to use the factory parts.  Off the top of my head I can't think of another manufacturer who still supplies parts for a 25yr old + vehicle. I do fudge on the oil filters tho but then I find an oil filter on a bike a novelty after years of riding British bikes. My local Autozone has Frams on the shelf (part #CH6061) so I usally grab one of those, O ring included!
rich