(11-17-2013, 07:33 AM)ingobohn_imp Wrote: [ -> ]Does the stock filter look more restrictive compared to K&N, e.g. thicker filter material, more filter "rips", etc.?
It definitely looked more restrictive. It was heavier, had more sharp deeper folds, if that makes sense and the K&N has less rounded contours. If you compare the pic I posted to the surface of any K&N you'll see what I mean. It did state it would not void warranty too. Around $50 from amazon.
How does k&n do when tested by an independent lab for ability to filter dirt.
I've always been skeptical about claims of breathing better turning into better performance....thinking you may only be able to notice something like that at close to red line RPM's......I mean do we really think there is not enough air available for the engine to breathe properly at low and mid range RPM's??
I honestly was skeptical too. Even at low to mid i believe it helped. My riding style may benefit from a better airflow as I've really been pushing it in the sweet zone. As we hear from more people trying different things we can all share in the predictable outcomes from common experiences. It has been fun trying to optimize this already awesome machine.
I use to race stock cars on a dirt track and we used K&N filters and I could tell the difference. The filter is made of a gauze material sandwiched between screen wire with a special filter oil. Air flow is more straight though with less turbulence. You will never have to buy another filter. Pick up the K&N Charger kit and you can clean and re-oil your filter for 100,000 miles. I had looked for a K&N for the CB1100 with no luck, But I will check Amazon. Even if you are not looking for more performance, I believe it will help the MPG.
To clean the filter you spray the special cleaner on the filter and hose it off with gentle water pressure, NOT HIGH pressure as you will damage the filter. Shake the filter to get as much water out as you can and let it dry out overnight. Lightly spray with a coat of filter oil and you are good to go.
My airbox is desnorkled with stock filter. 91.6 hp, 69.7 torque. But dynos can vary. To each his own.
I just ordered a K&H filter from Amazon thanks to this thread. And I also ordered a tire repair kit after reading another thread on this forum. Free shipping!
I'm looking forward to seeing if any performance gains are noticable with the K&N. Like many on this forum, I didn't notice any changes when I added a Staintune exhaust - except for the much nicer sound.