What air filter..? and how long..?

[Nathang]

I've got the manual, I'll look when I get home, but just for the conversation, is the stock filter supposed to be cleanable? I know it's not a washable one like K&N, but the high dollar high tech microfiber V-Rod filter from Amsoil isn't washable either, just blow it off with low pressure air.

[EZE RIDER]

The stock filter is standard paper but the Screaming Eagle is supposed to be washable which reminds me that I should wash mine. I havent tried doing that yet.

[kcmoborn]

Buy the K&N and forget it!

[Nathang]

I'm not convinced K&N works as well as you think, have your oil analyzed and see how much silica content it has. That's ultra fine road dust.

Besides, for the money I can get the Amsoil micro-fiber filter, catches at least as much, and no wonder, you can't see thru it.

[GQ_01]

Originally Posted by Nathang

I'm not convinced K&N works as well as you think, have your oil analyzed and see how much silica content it has. That's ultra fine road dust.

Actually, oiled-gauze air filters like K&N's work better with a little dust/debris on the fibers. As the particles cling to the fibers, they make it thicker, and actually deflect air into the other fibers more effectively. It's weird, but it's the truth.

For that matter, you can't "forget it," either. It doesn't take long at all - or any tools - to check it at every oil change, and then service it as needed. I think K&N recommends "recharging" your air filter every 50,000 miles at the most. As expensive as they are, why wouldn't you want to take a peek at it every now and then?

As for me, I've still got the stock air filter in my DX. I checked it during my last oil change, and knocked out more than a few whole bugs in only 2,600 miles of riding. When it's time, I figure I'll stick with K&N as that's what I'm running in my pickup and my wife's SUV. Does anyone know from what the SE air filter is manufactured so that it's washable, but doesn't require oiling?

[Kainam]

Originally Posted by Nathang

I've got the manual, I'll look when I get home, but just for the conversation, is the stock filter supposed to be cleanable?

According to the manual for my bike, the stock paper filter is cleanable with water and detergent. Oiling is a no-no.