Have you ever found yourself wondering why your motorcycle needs an air intake? It works to bring oxygen to your motorcycle and allows it to mix with the fuel. For all internal combustion engines, more air results in more power. Your motorbike’s air filter and airbox allow clean air to enter the combustion chamber and provide power, ultimately allowing your vehicle to move with ease.
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Our Top 3 Cold Air Intake for Harley-Davidson
Now, you must be wondering about the added advantages of having a cold air intake system installed in your vehicle, aren’t you? Let’s have a look.
Perks of Having a Cold Air Intake System Installed in Your Harley-Davidson
- Air intake is directly proportional to horsepower. Cooler air is denser – meaning that a cold intake pulls in more air per unit of volume, leading to good power gains.
- The air intake system comes with thick filters that are better and more sustainable than paper filters – they can be cleaned easily over time.
- If you love the sounds of revving engines, you will be happy to know that this system will further amplify the sound by giving it a smoother, full-bodied character.
- All of this adds up to greater acceleration as well.
1. K&N Cold Air Intake Kit – Best Overall
Does filter cleaning seem like a tough job? With this K&N product, you can go on for 10,000 miles without worrying about it! To top that, your engine is going to be protected from contaminants. This product has been dyno tested which ensures an increase in horsepower and torque. Airflow is said to be more than 50% of the regular restrictive factory box air filter and the intake tube which is made of cast aluminum.
The better towing allows improved uphill performance and enhanced acceleration. This kit has a long life of around 10 years, provided that you stop to maintain it regularly.
K&N could come off as a big fit for your motorcycle, but not for all models.
Recommended or not?
It’s a great deal considering the features and benefits it has to offer. To top it, the numerous positive reviews about this product is quite evident, this can be worth the money if purchased.
Frequently Asked Questions
The K&N Cold Air Intake kit, 57-1137 is not compatible with the 2014 Harley-Davidson XL883N IRON 54 CI
Unfortunately, the High-Performance K&N Cold Air Intake Kit 57-1137 does not include a rain sock or a pre-filter.
No, the K&N Cold Air Intake Kit 57-1137 will not fit a 2020 Harley-Davidson Street Bob. The kit that is supposed to fit is the K&N Cold Air Intake Kit 57-1139.
One must understand that there exists a relation between air restriction and mileage. The amount of work an engine has to perform to suck air through the intake tubes and air filter is directly related to the gas consumption. However, this does not necessarily mean that one will experience a change in the mileage.
But yes, K&N also does not state either that installing their air filter will definitely improve the vehicle’s mileage. Many variables affect mileage such as tire inflation, the type of fuel, weather, elevation, the speed at which you drive, the gear in which you drive, etc.
The other factors are- the speed with which you accelerate, engine maintenance, excessive idling, cruise control, the grade of motor oil you use, and of course, the condition of your air filter.
K&N guarantees that all their intake systems are dyno-tested and they will increase your vehicle’s horsepower. But, instead of making a general claim, K&N publishes estimated intake system horsepower for many part numbers and vehicles.
2. Vance & Hines 71005 Naked VO2 – Best Stage 1 Air Cleaner for Harley Davidson
Do you care more about the stock look than the stock performance? If yes, Vance and Hines have a VO2 air intake facility to offer you a high-flow replacement kit. To get more air into your motor for it to have more power, the VO2 comes with a larger inlet backing plate and billet venturi.
They also offer you a high-flow washable filter element, which lasts for several thousand miles before needing maintenance. Take note that this product does have some fitting issues – so contact Vance & Hines’ excellent customer support if you have doubts. The studs or screws might not line up properly with the venturi plate. It does not fit 1999-2001 fuel-injected Touring Models, 2011-2012 CVO Convertible, 2013-2014 CVO Breakout, 2014-2015 CVO Deluxe.
Recommended or not?
Subtle styling and very high quality – this is a great option for riders that want an understated yet high-performance air intake. Definitely recommended!
Frequently Asked Questions
No, this will not fit the 2016 Harley-Davidson Road Guide; it has a different backing plate.
Instruction manuals can be downloaded on the product page of their website.
3. Lingdu Air Cleaner Intake Kit – Best Budget
This air cleaner intake kit is produced by the brand Lingdu. This fit type of this Air Cleaner is vehicle specific and the material with which it is made is aluminum. However, there are a few things that one must pay attention to. Firstly, the air cleaner fits into the cable throttle only with Delphi Fuel Injection or CV Magnetti- Marelli fuel injection equipped models.
The brand assures you a warranty of 60 days from the date of purchase, so you can get in touch with them if a problem occurs. Models that are well-suited for this air intake kit are:
- Harley Dyna/FXR EVO & Twin Cam (1993-2017)
- Softail EVO & Twin Cam (1993-2015)
- Touring Road King Electra Glide EVO & Twin Cam (1993-2007)
The backing plate also helps with the internal intake components. CNC (Computerized Numerical Control) is machined from billet aluminum, thereby exhibiting excellent machinability because aluminum is the most preferred material in the manufacturing sector.
Adding to this, all mounting hardware is also included. Matching Clarity Derby Cover and Timing/ Cam Cover is also available.
The main downside? We cannot purchase the replacement parts separately on Amazon now. Also, if you purchase this product, you must be aware that the space between the backplate and the throttle body is more than the gasket they provide. This could lead to a possible chance that the throttle body might cost you. Although this product does not come with an instruction manual, installing the air cleaner is no big deal, and can be solved with a quick internet search.
Recommended or not?
Getting good grade aluminum construction at this price is the main reason to choose this product. Nevertheless, there are numerous positive reviews on Amazon, if you want to have a glimpse. The customers have acknowledged that it sounds as great as it looks – although be wary of any possible fitment problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this will fit into a 2013 Harley-Davidson Street Bob. Also, it is to be kept in mind that this fits the cable throttle with Delphi Fuel Injection or CV Carburettor equipped models only. This does not fit into the Magneti-Marelli fuel injection equipped model.
No, we cannot get a rain sock. It fits throttle by Wire Models only. If one wishes to purchase a spare filter for it, look it up on Amazon by searching ASIN: B07Z5ZVWN9.
Yes, this will fit perfectly for the 1999 Harley-Davidson Road King Classic.
The reason behind this delay is that the product is being shipped from China now, so if time is a major constraint, consider buying an American product.
No, this filter element cannot be cleaned in the first place. It needs to be replaced. The link provided alongside will lead you to its replacement
4. Black Ops – Designed Air Intake For Harley Touring
Happy-Motor makes some pretty great billet aluminum products – and this air intake is no exception. Durable, aesthetically slick, and well-machined, this is an absolute knockout option given its reasonable price point.
The exposed filter design enhances the airflow- a major perk that also looks stunning on blacked-out hardware. This kit will have a high-volume filter and is inclusive of mounting hardware. The backing plate promotes smooth airflow into the carburetor as it has inbuilt crankcase breathers.
The package includes one Pc Air Filter with Accessories, which are compatible with a wide variety of HD models.
Compatibility with models
- 2016-2017 FXDLS Dyna Low Rider S
- 2016-2017 FXSB Breakout
- 2016-2017 FXSE CVO Pro Street Breakout
- 2014-2016 FLHTCU Electra Glide Ultra Classic
- 2008-2013 FLHTCU Ultra Classic Electra Glide
- 2015-2016 FLHTCUL Electra Glide Ultra Classic Low
- 2014-2016 FLHTCUTG Tri Glide Ultra
- 2009-2013 FLHTCUTG Tri Glide Ultra Classic
- 2010-2013 FLHTK Electra Glide Ultra Limited
- 2014-2016 FLHTK Ultra Limited
- 2014-2016 FLHTKSE CVO Limited
- 2008-2016 FLHX Street Glide
- 2014-2016 FLHXS Street Glide Special
- 2010-2016 FLHXSE CVO Street Glide
- 2010-2011 FLHXXX Street Glide Trike
- 2015-2016 FLRT Freewheeler
- 2016-2017 FLS Softail Slim
As for downsides, the sun could bleach the color of your product, and you might want to keep some extra bolts on hand for installation – otherwise, you’re good to go.
Recommended or not?
With great craftsmanship and a host of pleasantly surprised customers, Happy-Motors really do live up to their name. A solid recommendation in our books.
Frequently Asked Questions
There lies some doubt whether this might fit the 2013 Harley-Davidson FLTRX Road Glide, but it does fit the 2012 Harley-Davidson Touring FLHX Street Glide.
No, you can run this filter dry.
The air suction noise is not too loud but at the same time, it is also not too soft on the ears to be inaudible.
No, this air filter is suitable for the 2016 Road Glide and older models.
5. Y&J – Best Air intake for Harley Sportster
Produced by Y&J, this kit has a 4-inch diameter filter designed from the ground up for Harley Sportsters. The installation has been made easier with a billet aluminum backing plate with internal breathing passages. The filter can be easily reused by simple wash, drying, and re-oiling. This kit will take up the job of an ECU, and handle the fuel efficiency better as well.
This air intake kit has a lot of benefits to offer for your convenience, is compatible with both carburetor and fuel-injected models. Also, it comes with a clear plastic plate and is black and anodized.
It is compatible to fit with:
- 1991-2016 XL SPORTSTER
- Fits both carburetor and fuel-injected models
The kit includes
- Featured Performance Filter
- CNC Machined Backing Plate
- Plastic Face Plate
- CNC Machined Breather System
- Stainless Hardware
While the product is pretty good, it fits only a single model. Customers have also raised complaints about fitment – with chances of air leaking if improperly installed. In some cases, the back of the mounting plate could hit the carb.
Recommended or not?
It’s a great deal if your model is a perfect fit for the kit. The advantages it offers will surely amplify your use, and it looks absolutely gorgeous.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, an ECU is honestly recommended for this air filter or you risk engine complications.
Not really. This product is waterproof and a rain sock is not necessary.
No, oiling is not necessary. One just has to install the product and use it directly.
If it’s a Harley-Davidson, this product just fits universally.
Conclusion
You now have an understanding of these products and their benefits. An air intake system is an essential addition to your motorcycle for its welfare. A good product will ensure sustainability and durability. An expensive investment in return for a good quality-oriented product will be a long-term benefit to your Harley-Davidson. Be prepared for some smooth, accelerated, fuel-efficient driving!
After all, our aim is to purchase a product that is worth our money. Hope this article has helped you with your decision-making and you buy something that fits your HD the best!