Road King Performance upgrades

[amf1340]

Hi, I am seriously considering buying a new Road King but would like to know what the performance increase options are on this bike before I do. The local Stealers are pointing me towards the Screaming Eagle Parts catalogue but from experience with my Shovel over the years the genuine Harley upgrades are not the most effective from a cost or power perspective. I want more 'usable power' (and more noise!) rather than just a top end increase. I dont want to perform major engine surgery just yet so Ignition, exhaust, injection and maybe cam upgrade suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks Andy

[blackwell33]

First off, go by the new members section and introduce yourself. People will be much more inclined to help you.. and there is a lot of knowledge to be had.

There are a million choices out there. You really just have to do your own research and decide what works best for you and what look you are going for. For instance, your engine can only breath so much, and all air cleaners claim to be the best and allow the most flow. Some flow just as well as not having a cleaner on at all, so at that point, you just need to pick the one that you like and looks best. The same goes for exhaust. Just choose a company that you know will back up their parts. I'm hearing bad things about the quality and support from Thunderheaders lately.

As for building the engine, you plan on doing the work yourself? If so, check out NRHS. They have a great reputation. Also, you can look at zippers. If those places don't suit you, there are always mom and pop shops around that would like to have your business. Find someone who builds a lot of performance motors and they will be able to help you match what type cams you need. NRHS has helped me with this. If you're not, you might want to consider your warranty and let HD install everything.. but that will cost you.

[chris_lacey]

Originally Posted by blackwell33

I'm hearing bad things about the quality and support from Thunderheaders lately.

As for building the engine, you plan on doing the work yourself? If so, check out NRHS. They have a great reputation. Also, you can look at zippers. If those places don't suit you, there are always mom and pop shops around that would like to have your business. Find someone who builds a lot of performance motors and they will be able to help you match what type cams you need. NRHS has helped me with this. If you're not, you might want to consider your warranty and let HD install everything.. but that will cost you.

Tough to go wrong with either Zippers or NRHS.
I, personally like and run the Thunderheader, but I got mine from J&P, so the service is always first rate.

I just ordered the EV27 cam and install kit (EVO application, won't fit new TC96) from NorthShore Motorcycle in NY. Best price I've seen, but I just ordered it yesterday, so I can't comment on service yet. They were good on the phone. Maybe they have the Andrews TC kits as well.